Mount Elbert Forebay, Leadville - Fish Explorer Colorado Lakes & Reservoirs

2009 CDOW Forecast:
This reservoir fluctuates considerably due to pump back hydropower generation. This mode of operation typically impacts productivity and fishery potential. Remarkably, it routinely produces some of the best catches of large lake trout in the upper Arkansas River basin, ranking 1st in terms of mackinaw abundance with an average size of 17 inches and maximum lengths over 40 inches. Lake trout sustain themselves naturally and survival and growth is good. The limit is one fish and all lake trout 22-34 inches long must be released. This lake also harbors a good trout population, ranking 2nd in the region for rainbow trout abundance. Rainbow trout provide the most consistent action at the Forebay with fishermen enjoying
catch rates averaging almost one fish per hour. Catchable trout are stocked from late May to late August. In turn, most of the rainbow trout caught average 12 inches with consistent action throughout the summer fishing season using typical baits. Trout that survive the summer and over-winter to the next spring provide for some very good ice-out action in May and early June. These fish average 15 inches and are vulnerable to wooly worms or lures fished slowly from the south shore.

Lake trout anglers find good success from the south shore in the spring using large rapallas but trolling or jigging from a boat produces the highest catch rate throughout the season. Shore anglers report good success for lake trout while bait fishing for trout. Keep in mind that only carry-on boats, including float tubes, are legal on the Forebay. There is no boat
ramp but if you can carry it you can launch it. The best boater access is from the southwest corner of the lake. Park along the edge of the road but do not block the locked gate. Use extreme caution with small craft due to water level fluctuations. The north dam is closed to the public. Facilities are primitive here but the fishery makes the trip worthwhile. Lake County entities and the Division of Wildlife are currently exploring the possibility of improving facilities (e.g. restrooms, parking, primitive boat ramp for small boats only).

Getting there: From Leadville, Colorado, travel south 15 miles on Highway 24, turn right (west) on Highway 82, travel 4 miles and take a right onto Lake County Road 24. Travel north past Lakeview Campground to the lake.
Fees: None
Boating: Wakeless. Boats are allowed on the lake, but no boat ramp exists, so you must be able to carry the boat. Gas motors and Float Tubes are ok. The best boater access is from the southwest corner of the lake.
Ice Fishing: Rarely sees fishable ice