Spring 2026 is Shaping Up to Be One of t
February 15, 2026 Loveland 2 photos
Walleye
Walleye
Bass (White)
Bass (White)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)

Trip Summary

This warmer-than-normal winter is setting the stage for what could be an incredible spring fishing season across Northern Colorado. The shorter ice season means less harvest pressure over the winter months, and that translates to more fish ready to go when open water hits. We're already seeing signs that the bite is going to kick off earlier than usual. Holdover trout at Carter Lake and Horsetooth Reservoir should be in great shape — expect fish in the 12–14" range that have had a full winter to feed without as much angling pressure. The walleye bite on Boyd Lake is shaping up to be the best we've seen in years, with fish that are eager and aggressive coming out of winter. Largemouth and smallmouth bass will be pushing into the shallows earlier than normal too, making for some exciting sight-fishing opportunities across the Loveland, Longmont, and Fort Collins area. And if you're looking for something special — Union Reservoir in Longmont had low water levels last year, which significantly reduced angling pressure. That means the walleye and wiper populations have had time to stack up. This spring and early summer at Union could be flat-out outstanding. If you've been thinking about booking a guided trip, now is the time to lock in your dates. Spring fills up fast and this season has all the ingredients for trophy fishing. Let's get on the water.
Brad Petersen Outdoors
Loveland, Colorado, United States
BPO – Loveland, Fort Collins, & Longmont thumbnail
Fish Northern Colorado's best lakes with a guide who thinks like a biologist. Brad Petersen doesn't just know where the fish are — with a degree in fishery biology and 40+ years on the water, he understands why they're there. That sci...

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