Ice Fishing in Colorado: Learn the Basics at Antero Reservoir

Learn to fish on the ice and catch trophy trout in the shadow of mountain ranges

Ice fishing in Colorado at Antero Reservoir is a three-hour guided activity where you learn the basics of ice fishing and pursue trophy-size trout with all gear provided. Meet your guide in the parking area, receive instruction on ice safety, then head onto the ice where you'll fish with rods, sonar devices, and a heated hut on colder days. No prior experience needed. Kids ages 3 and up are welcome.

The experience

Three hours is enough time to learn ice fishing fundamentals and actually catch something. You'll meet your guide in the parking area at Antero Reservoir, go over ice safety, and walk out onto the frozen surface where the fishing happens. The guide provides all the rods, tackle, lures, and sonar equipment you need. On cold or windy days, you'll fish from a heated hut instead of standing on the ice. The focus here is quality over quantity (trophy trout rather than a high catch count), so your guide will spend the time teaching you how to read the water and work the gear rather than rushing through stops.

Instruction runs throughout the session, so whether you've never held a fishing rod or you already fish open water and want to learn the ice version, the guide adjusts to your level. Kids as young as 3 can come along. Anyone 16 or older will need a Colorado fishing license, which you can get online before you go. Dress like you're heading to the ski slopes (layers, good boots, and gloves), and bring sunscreen and sunglasses. The reflection off the ice is intense. The mountain views surrounding the reservoir are part of the draw, but the real point is the fishing itself and the chance to land a big trout in a setting most people never try.

What’s included

• Experienced guide in English.
• all ice fishing rods, tackle, and lures.
• heated hut on colder or windy days.
• sonar device.
• chairs.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 13 Jan 2027

AgesAdult (7 and older) · Child (3 to 6 years): free · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcome

Operated by Ice Fishing with South Park Outfitters

Is this one for you?A half-day commitment leaves your morning or afternoon free for other Colorado activities, so ice fishing fits easily into a longer trip without dominating the day. The three-hour window works whether you're a complete beginner trying something new or an experienced angler looking to add a skill.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 6 years): free. Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What kind of fish will I catch at Antero Reservoir?

Antero Reservoir holds trophy-size trout, and the focus is on quality catches rather than quantity, so you're fishing for larger fish with your guide's instruction on technique and reading the water.

Do I need a fishing license to ice fish in Colorado?

Anyone 16 years old or older needs a Colorado fishing license. You can purchase one online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website before your trip.

What happens if the weather is really cold?

On cold or windy days, you'll fish from a heated hut that's provided, so you stay comfortable while still working the water and learning from your guide.

What do I need to bring besides the fishing gear?

Bring warm clothes layered like you're skiing, good boots or shoes with traction, sunglasses, sunscreen, snacks, drinks, and any personal items you need. The guide provides all fishing equipment, chairs, and a heated hut on cold days.