Tarryall Reservoir, Fairplay Colorado - Fishing is steadily improving after Tarryall was refilled in 2005. The lake remains managed by the Division of Wildlife with excellent boat ramps and camping on the lake.
Tarryall Reservoir has been steadily improving since it was refilled in 2005. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has been stocking the lake with mid-size rainbows and there are some rainbows and northern pike still in the lake. The lake provides great access to both shore and boat fisherman. Excellent primitive camping sites are located on both shores of the lake and the boat ramps are well maintained. The lake is located in between Fairplay and Lake George providing great access to nearby trails and other lakes and streams.
2009 CDOW Forecast:
Due to the statewide hiring freeze and Aquatic Nuisance Species concerns, trailered boats may not be allowed to launch at Tarryall at ice off. Please contact your local DOW office for updates. Once boat inspectors are in place, all trailered boats must go through an Aquatic Nuisance Species inspection. Expect rainbow trout fishing to remain good with plenty of action to keep the family interested. Anglers are catching rainbows and Snake River cutthroat trout in the 13-17 inch size range with an occasional large brown trout. Northern pike catch rates are increasing and so is the size structure, up to 32”. Anglers are encouraged to harvest all northern pike caught at Tarryall Reservoir.
Getting there: From Denver - Take Highway 285 south to Jefferson. From Jefferson go 15 miles southeast on County Road 79 to the reservoir. Fees: Habitiat stamp required. Boating: Wakeless. Boating prohibited if it creates whitewater wake.
Boat inspections begin June 1 on the East Boat Ramp from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m., 5 days a week (Thursday through Monday). The Parker Gulch Campground Boat Ramp will be closed. Both ramps will be closed at night and on Tuesday and Wednesdays. No overnight beaching will be allowed. Tarryall will close to boating on October 31, 2009. Ice Fishing: Ice fishing allowed
