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Lake Trout

Lake Trout

Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in Colorado are actually a type of char, not a true trout, and represent one of the state's most impressive freshwater predators.

These fish were introduced outside their native range and have established thriving populations in several Colorado waters.

Scientific Name: Salvelinus namaycush

Physical Characteristics:
  • Fish reaching up to 50 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • These fish are adapted to deep, cold oligotrophic waters and typically inhabit depths of 40-200+ feet during summer months.

Key Locations

  • Blue Mesa Reservoir, Lake Granby, Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, Eleven Mile Reservoir, Dillon Reservoir, Antero Reservoir.
  • Stillwater Boat Ramp at Lake Granby.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on areas near boat ramps like Stillwater Boat Ramp at Lake Granby, rocky shorelines, drop-offs, and underwater structure.

Lake Trout FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Trout in Colorado?

Successful lure patterns include large spoons (silver, gold, or copper), heavy jigs (1-4 ounces), large swimbaits, and crankbaits that dive deep. Kastmasters, rooster tails, and other heavy casting spoons work well from shore when fish are shallow.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Trout in Colorado?

Ice fishing season (December-March) offers excellent opportunities. For open water fishing, target the period from ice-out until early June when fish remain in 6-20 feet of water. During summer, Lake Trout retreat to depths of 40-60 feet or deeper.

How do you catch Lake Trout in Colorado?

Effective techniques include trolling with downriggers, jigging with heavy spoons and jigs, and casting large lures from shore during the shallow-water period. For bait fishing, use dead or live minnows, sucker meat threaded on hooks, or cut bait fished on the bottom with heavy sinkers.

What do Lake Trout eat?

Lake Trout are apex predators with voracious appetites, feeding heavily on smaller fish including sculpins, chubs, minnows, bullheads, and other trout species. In Colorado's reservoirs, they also consume Mysis shrimp, kokanee salmon, and various baitfish.

Where do Lake Trout live in Colorado?

These fish are adapted to deep, cold oligotrophic waters and typically inhabit depths of 40-200+ feet during summer months.

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  1. 01 · Species map filter

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Explore other species

Trout, bass, salmon, panfish and everything in between. Each guide unpacks the behavior, seasons, and tactics that put fish in the net.

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Colorado licenses and regulations

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