Wellington Lake, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, Colorado, is a true gem for fishing enthusiasts. This 167-acre trophy fishery offers a unique and exciting experience for anglers seeking to reel in a variety of trout species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, Wellington Lake promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Trophy Trout Fishery
Wellington Lake is renowned for its trophy trout population, stocked twice a year with a diverse array of species. Anglers can expect to encounter Rainbow, Cutbow, Brown, Brook, Tiger, and Palomino Trout, each offering its own unique challenge and thrill.
Catch and Release
The fishing at Wellington Lake is strictly catch and release, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fishery. Any fish caught must be promptly returned to the lake, with a restocking fee of at least $50 per fish for those who fail to do so.
Fishing Regulations
To maintain the pristine environment of Wellington Lake, the following fishing regulations are in place:
| Regulation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bait | Only artificial flies and lures made of materials like wood, plastic, silicone, rubber, epoxy, glass, hair, metal, feathers, or fiber are allowed. No live or artificial bait is permitted. |
| Hooks | Single, barbless hooks are required for all fishing. |
| Lead | No lead sinkers or lead fishing materials are allowed to protect the lake’s ecosystem. |
| Scented Plastics | The use of scented plastics is prohibited to maintain the lake’s natural environment. |
Watercraft
Access to Wellington Lake is limited to hand-launched craft only. Electric trolling motors are permitted, but gas-powered motors are not allowed. All watercraft activities require the use of life jackets, as there are no lifeguards on duty.
Fees and Licenses
One of the unique aspects of fishing at Wellington Lake is that no Colorado fishing license is required. The fees for fishing are included in the camping and day-use rates, making it a convenient and accessible destination for anglers.
Other Activities
In addition to the exceptional fishing opportunities, Wellington Lake offers a variety of other outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. These include camping, hiking, biking, boating, picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing, making it a true destination for nature enthusiasts.
Contact Information
For those interested in planning a fishing trip to Wellington Lake, the following contact information may be helpful:
- Address: 21843 Stoney Pass Rd, Bailey, CO 80421 (near Deckers)
- Phone: 303-838-5496
- Season: Year-round
- Hours: 24/7 for campers, sunrise to sunset for day use
- Website: castlemountainrec.com
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, Wellington Lake offers a unique and exciting fishing experience. With its trophy trout population, catch and release policies, and diverse range of outdoor activities, this hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies is a must-visit destination for any fishing enthusiast.
References
- https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/fisheriesmanagement/Public/LakeRegulation/Details?WBIC=1467800&WBIC_NAME=Wellington+Lake
- https://www.castlemountainrec.com/winter
- https://ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/Where-to-Fish-in-Kansas/Fishing-Locations-Public-Waters/South-Central-Region/Wellington-City-Lake
- https://www.castlemountainrec.com/fishing
- https://www.uncovercolorado.com/activities/wellington-lake/