Rifle Gap Reservoir Fishing Guide New Castle Colorado

Rifle Gap Reservoir stands as one of Colorado's premier fishing destinations, located just minutes from New Castle and offering exceptional angling opportunities year-round. At 6,000 feet elevation, this 350-acre reservoir maintains optimal water temperatures and fish populations that attract anglers from across the region.

The reservoir's unique geographic position creates distinct fishing zones, with the deeper northern sections reaching 80 feet and providing excellent habitat for larger trout. The southern shallows, ranging from 10-25 feet, offer prime feeding areas where fish concentrate during morning and evening hours.

Rifle Gap Reservoir supports healthy populations of rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass, with fish regularly caught in the 14-20 inch range. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks approximately 12,000 catchable-size rainbow trout annually, supplemented by natural reproduction in the tributary streams.

Water temperatures at Rifle Gap remain relatively stable due to the reservoir's depth and spring-fed inflows, typically ranging from 45-65 degrees Fahrenheit depending on season. This thermal stability creates excellent fishing conditions from ice-out in March through late November, with peak activity occurring during the 50-60 degree range in spring and fall.

Our waters fished expertise at Rifle Gap includes understanding the reservoir's underwater structure, including the submerged roadbed that crosses the middle section at 35-40 foot depths. This structure attracts baitfish and creates prime fishing zones that Brandon has mapped over his decade-plus guiding experience.

Brandon's approach to Rifle Gap fishing incorporates specific techniques developed through over ten years of guiding on this reservoir system. Early morning fishing focuses on the shallow coves using floating line setups with chironomid patterns in sizes 14-18, matching the natural midge emergences that occur from April through September.

Midday fishing requires transitioning to deeper water techniques, utilizing sinking lines and streamers along the dam face and deeper channels. Our tackle selection includes Woolly Buggers in olive and black, Zonkers in brown and white, and specialized reservoir patterns that mimic the local forage base of daphnia, midges, and small minnows.

Equipment specifications for Rifle Gap include 9-foot 5-weight rods for fly fishing applications, or medium-action spinning rods rated for 8-12 pound test when using conventional tackle. The reservoir's open water and frequent wind conditions require casting ability and line management skills that come with experienced guidance.

Spring fishing at Rifle Gap begins with ice-out conditions typically occurring in early March, when water temperatures reach 38-42 degrees. Fish concentrate in the warmer shallow areas, particularly the protected coves on the reservoir's eastern shore where morning sun exposure raises water temperatures first.

Summer patterns shift to early morning and evening activity, with midday fishing requiring deeper presentations along thermoclines at 25-35 foot depths. Our depth finders are calibrated specifically for high-altitude fishing, accounting for the reduced water density and altered sonar readings that occur at 6,000+ feet elevation.

Fall fishing produces some of the year's best results as trout feed aggressively before winter, with brown trout spawning activity creating excellent opportunities for experienced anglers. Brandon's knowledge of specific spawning locations and associated fishing regulations ensures both successful trips and proper conservation practices.

All guided trips include professional-grade equipment specifically chosen for Rifle Gap conditions. Our boat features a 25-horsepower outboard rated for the reservoir's 6,000-foot elevation, with carburetor adjustments made for optimal high-altitude performance. Safety equipment includes USCG-approved life jackets, emergency communication devices, and first aid supplies.

Tackle boxes are stocked with reservoir-specific selections including PowerBait in chartreuse, pink, and rainbow colors proven effective at Rifle Gap, along with nightcrawlers, salmon eggs, and spinning lures like Thomas Buoyants and Kastmasters in sizes appropriate for the local fish populations.

Contact Apex Sport Fishing at (208) 315-5396 to book your Rifle Gap Reservoir fishing experience. Our rates page provides detailed pricing information for half-day and full-day guided trips, while our meet your guide section offers insights into Brandon's extensive Rifle Gap fishing experience and successful guiding record.

Choose Apex Sport Fishing for your Rifle Gap Reservoir adventure and benefit from local expertise that comes only from over a decade of guiding on these waters. With our comprehensive knowledge of fish behavior patterns, optimal equipment selections, and proven techniques, we guarantee you'll experience the best that Rifle Gap Reservoir has to offer anglers in the New Castle and Glenwood Springs area.