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Pikes Peak Catamount Reservoirs Reopen as CPW Restocks Fisheries
Description: Colorado Parks and Wildlife hatchery technicians continue to stock multiple species of fish into North and South Catamount Reservoirs on Pikes Peak. The fisheries are being rebuilt and monitored by CPW aquatic biologists following completion of extensive dam improvements by Colorado Springs Utilities. South Catamount Reservoir is refilled with water in this April image. Springs Utilities photo...
Pikes Peak Catamount reservoirs reopen as CPW restocks fisheries
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Parks and Wildlife is actively rebuilding fisheries on Pikes Peak following the reopening of North and South Catamount reservoirs May 1 after extended closures for dam maintenance and upgrades led by Colorado Springs Utilities.
After multiple seasons without stocking South Catamount, CPW aquatic biologists have coordinated with fish hatchery technicians to reestablish fish populations in South Catamount and conduct seasonal stocking of North Catamount. CPW Hatchery crews are leading on-the-ground stocking efforts, delivering brook trout from Monte Vista Hatchery, brown trout from Rifle Falls Hatchery, tiger trout and splake from Mount Shavano Hatchery, and catchable rainbow trout from the Pueblo Hatchery.
“Our team takes a great deal of pride in raising and delivering quality fish for anglers across Colorado,” said Quentin Springer, CPW Pueblo Hatchery Manager. “We’re excited to continue that work in the weeks ahead, including delivery of about 2,000 additional rainbow trout to South Catamount in June.”
All fish are produced and transported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife hatchery staff with technicians continuing restocking efforts on Pikes Peak and across the state in the weeks and months ahead. The online fish stocking report identifies where catchable trout, approximately 10 inches in length, were recently stocked. The report is updated each Friday during fishing season.
The catamount reservoir reopenings follow completion of major dam rehabilitation work by Springs Utilities to strengthen and modernize the nearly 100-year-old infrastructure supporting the Catamount reservoirs. The project improved long-term safety and reliability of the system while restoring public access to the North Slope Recreation Area, including updated trails, expanded open space and renewed fishing opportunities.
“The completion of this work represents a major investment in the long-term safety and reliability of this system,” said Michael Myers, Springs Utilities Water and Wastewater Operations Manager. “We’re proud to partner in restoring access to these reservoirs and supporting the return of recreation on Pikes Peak.”
Nearby Crystal Reservoir remains under short-term warranty maintenance. In-water recreation is expected to be limited for approximately two weeks while crews complete final work and water levels recover. Because South Catamount Reservoir went multiple seasons without stocking, CPW aquatics biologists expect fisheries to take time to fully reestablish. The biologists will monitor conditions and adjust stocking plans to support long-term success for anglers returning to the area.
“Colorado Parks and Wildlife remains committed to providing high-quality fisheries for anglers across the state, and this work on Pikes Peak reflects the strength and dedication of our aquatics branch,” said Cory Noble, CPW Southeast Region Area Aquatics Biologist. “We’re proud to support the return of fishing on America’s Mountain and excited for anglers to enjoy these waters as Colorado celebrates its 150th anniversary and as the nation marks its 250th birthday this July 4.”
Online resources supporting Colorado anglers include the Colorado Fishing Atlas which identifies the most current fish stocking activity by location, species and date. Additional information is online at cpw.state.co.us under the fishing tab.
Anglers are reminded that a valid fishing license must be carried by adults and youth 16 and 17 years old while fishing; children under age 16 do not require a license. Individuals fishing without a valid license may be subject to fines. Fishing licenses are valid from March 1 through March 31 of the following year. Licenses may be purchased online at www.cpwshop.com or in person at CPW offices and authorized sales agents.
