Colorado Parks and Wildlife approves 2026 fish salvage for Antero Reservoir

In order to minimize imminent fish loss due to Denver Water’s planned reservoir drawdown, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has authorized an emergency public fish salvage for Antero Reservoir in Park County.

Effective immediately, all bag and possession limits for all fish species will be lifted through sunset on May 13, after which Denver Water will close public access to the property. All other regulations, including a valid Colorado fishing license and legal methods of take, will be enforced. Motorized boating and commercialized fishing will not be allowed. Hand-launched vessels and shoreline angling are permitted.

“Colorado Parks and Wildlife appreciates the public’s help in harvesting fish from Antero and utilizing those resources as much as possible,” said Kyle Battige, CPW Senior Aquatic Biologist. “We are currently evaluating the feasibility of CPW-led salvage efforts and hope to rebuild into a high quality fishery once the reservoir is filled in the future.”

Antero Reservoir is positive for New Zealand mudsnails, an invasive aquatic nuisance species. They are small and easily hidden in mud on angling equipment. New Zealand mudsnails can survive out of water for up to 50 days. Anglers are urged to clean, drain and dry all of their gear before using it in another body of water.