Fishing Charters in Colorado
Browse fishing charters in Colorado that can help you catch smallmouth bass.
Aztec Anglers San Juan River Guide Service
Durango, Colorado
Aztec Anglers is the premier fly fishing outfitter on the Famous San Juan River New Mexico. One of the top tailwaters in the US.
Sage Outdoor Adventures Horn Ranch Put In
Edwards, Colorado
Vail and Beaver Creek Colorado's tour guide service for Whitewater River Rafting, Horseback Riding, ATV & Off-Road, Sporting Clays and Snowmobiling.
Proudline Guided Flyfishing
Carbondale, Colorado
Our Mission Connecting our anglers with the invigorating beauty of a riparian adventure. From start to finish, our approach is different. Our focus on a quality fishing experience extends far beyond the number or size of fish caught in a day. We strive to impart our passion for the valley we love and protect the…
Riffle And Rise
Almont, Colorado
Fly fishing the Western Slope of Colorado, in the Gunnison Valley, for brown trout, rainbow trout, and native cutthroat.
Alaska Steelhead
Laporte, Colorado
Meet the crew behind Alaska Steelhead Co. and get in touch with us to plan your trip to the finest Alaska Steelhead lodge!
Fly Fishing Colorado
Breckenridge, Colorado
Fly Fishing Colorado was established in 2016 to provide beginner and experienced fisher alike with the opportunity to float down the Colorado River and learn from our experienced fishing guide all about the natural environment of the river, technique, what's biting, which flies to use and more.
Adventure Ice Fishing
Denver, Colorado
Colorado ice fishing excursions across the central mountain lakes with top-of-the-line equipment to keep you on the fish while ensuring you’re warm & safe!
Seaview Fishing Services
Littleton, Colorado
The most accurate oceanographic and weather data products service, updated up to 4-8 times per day - all for a very affordable price!
Colorado Fishing Network
Evergreen, Colorado
Comprehensive information about fishing in Colorado. Features where to fish, maps, regional features, reports, photos, stories, guides, stores, conditions, on-line shopping.
The Best Of Kamchatka
Longmont, Colorado
The Reel Mission Fishin Adventures
Granby, Colorado
Check out the information on The Reel Mission Fishin' Adventures!
Steamboat Fishing Adventures
Steamboat Fishing Adventures offer Steamboat Springs Lake and Ice Fishing Adventures for visotors and locals. Our trips visit Steamboat Lake, Stagecoach Reservoir and Pearl Lake
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Denver. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Chasing Smallmouth Bass in the Denver, Colorado area requires a bit of a different approach than you might expect. While the Mile High City isn't necessarily known for its smallmouth fisheries, several reservoirs and river stretches offer surprisingly good opportunities. Chatfield and Cherry Creek Reservoirs can hold decent populations. The best time to target smallies is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Look for rocky points, submerged structure, and areas with current. A key local tip: pay close attention to water clarity, as smallmouth prefer clear water. If the reservoirs are turbid, consider heading to the South Platte River below Chatfield Dam. Tube baits and crankbaits that mimic crawfish are always a good bet. Denver's smallmouth population tends to be smaller than in other regions, but what they lack in size, they make up for in fight.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Colorado
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
5 per day
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Fishing license
Check specific regulations for individual bodies of water as special rules may apply.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Colorado state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for smallmouth bass around Denver?
Smallmouth bass in Denver respond well to various lures and live bait. Popular choices include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, tube jigs, and live crawfish. Experiment to see what works best on a given day.
Are there any size restrictions for smallmouth bass in Colorado?
Nope! Colorado has no size restrictions for smallmouth bass. You can keep what you catch as long as you stay within the bag limit.
What's the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Denver?
In Colorado, the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass is 5. Make sure to stop fishing for the day once you've reached that limit.
Do I need a fishing license to target smallmouth bass in Denver?
Yes, you'll need a valid Colorado fishing license to legally fish for smallmouth bass in Denver's waters. Make sure to have it with you while fishing.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Colorado
Other Species to Fish in Denver
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Denver?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.