Man fly fishing in a river
Fly fishing

Fishing

Whether you want to spend some time pole fishing, fly fishing, or ice fishing, Granby is the perfect basecamp for your adventure.

ON A LAKE

Home to Lake Granby—the third largest body of water in Colorado and spanning an impressive 7,256 acres—Granby is the perfect place to visit for any fishing enthusiast. Offering more than 40 miles of shoreline, Lake Granby is a favorite spot for fishing, camping, hiking, and boating.

Lake Granby, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Grand Lake are all within close proximity to town, and offer excellent fishing for the eager angler. Rainbow, brown, and lake trout are primarily found in the water systems around here, as well as the much sought-after kokanee salmon. If you’re looking for an authentic and memorable guided experience, book a trip with our local guiding company, Fishing With Bernie.

In the summer, the local marinas on Lake Granby offer pontoon boat rentals, making for a fun, family-friendly fishing day out on the water. Pack lunch, bring the kids (even the dogs!), float beneath the towering mountains around you, hang your poll off the back of the boat and wait for that bite. Rentals are available by the hour, half-day, or full-day.

Rather be secluded in nature, surrounded by high alpine lakes? Hike your way through miles of trails that lead to some of the most beautiful sights you’ll see and peaceful, quiet fishing.

ON A RIVER

In addition to the lakes, the Colorado River and Fraser River both run right through town and serve as popular spots for fly fishing. Fly fishermen from around the world travel here for the opportunity to fish the Colorado River’s Gold Medal waters.

The Colorado River runs an astonishing 1,450 miles, traveling through parts of seven U.S. states. And best of all, it starts right here in Grand County! The headwaters of the Colorado River are located in Rocky Mountain National Park, beginning at the Continental Divide at La Poudre Pass. As the river flows out of the park, it enters Shadow Mountain Lake and Lake Granby, eventually joining the Fraser River, a hot spot for fly fishing. It then flows west through Gore Canyon, heading out of Grand County.

IN THE WINTER

During the winter months, the lakes freeze over and ice fishing season begins. Ice fishing is a popular sport here and a great way to get out and enjoy the fresh air off the slopes. Granby is even home to the longest-running ice fishing tournament West of the Mississippi! The 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest takes place every January, when thousands of anglers descend upon the lakes to take their chances at winning thousands of dollars worth of cash and prizes.

A Colorado fishing license is required for every fisherman over 16 years of age. Children under 16 do not need a license but may only take half the legal limit. Fishing licenses are available for purchase at both Budget Tackle and Granby Bait N Tackle. The Sulphur Ranger District office is a great resource for fishing brochures, maps, and general information.

Just 5 miles outside the town of Granby, Lake Granby encompasses 7,256 acres, making it the third largest body of water in Colorado. With 40 miles of beautifully scenic shoreline, boating, kayaking, camping, fishing, and hiking are just some of the must-do activities on the lake.