Timnath Reservoir Opens for Temporary Public Fishing to Help Reduce Fish Loss

July 13, 2026

Beginning July 13, Timnath Reservoir will temporarily open to anglers with a valid Colorado fishing license under an emergency public salvage authorization issued by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). The temporary fishing opportunity is intended to help mitigate fish loss as water levels decline.

By providing increased fishing opportunities now, the Town and CPW hope to reduce the impacts of a significant fish kill later in the season. The authorization removes bag and possession limits at the reservoir, creating opportunities for anglers to harvest fish and make use of the reservoir’s fishery before reservoir conditions deteriorate. Reducing the scale of a potential fish kill can help protect water quality, minimize nuisance conditions and reduce impacts to visitors, wildlife and reservoir operations.

Fishing will be permitted daily from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., or dusk, whichever occurs first. Anglers are encouraged to access the reservoir through the main entrance and park in designated parking areas at Timnath Reservoir.

Angler Rules and Access Information:

• A valid Colorado fishing license is required.
• Bag and possession limits are suspended at Timnath Reservoir.
• Town of Timnath shore permits and non-motorized watercraft permits are temporarily waived for anglers.
• Fish may be taken only through lawful angling methods currently allowed at the reservoir. Commercial angling is prohibited.
• It is illegal to capture and transport live fish from Timnath Reservoir to another body of water.
• Access is limited to shoreline angling and fishing from non-motorized watercraft.

The temporary fishing opportunity will remain in effect until Colorado Parks and Wildlife determines it is no longer needed. The Town of Timnath will provide updates and share additional information as it becomes available.

For more information about Timnath Reservoir, visit timnath.org/timnath-reservoir.