Northern Colorado Fishing Forecast: May Hotspots for Walleye and More
Are you ready to hit the water this May? Northern Colorado fishing reaches prime conditions as
waters warm and fish become more active. From trophy walleye at Boyd Lake to monster wipers
at Jackson Reservoir, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a
successful fishing trip across the region’s top lakes.
Boyd Lake – Prime May Walleye Action
Boyd Lake stands out as a premier May fishing destination in Northern Colorado, offering the
second-best month for fast-action walleye fishing. If you’re targeting multiple species, you’ll be
pleased to know that white bass fishing is already good and will become excellent once the inlet
activity increases.
For bass enthusiasts, the smallmouth fishing typically delivers good numbers with opportunities
to land some larger specimens. Meanwhile, largemouth bass begin moving shoreward, presenting
chances to catch fish exceeding 3 pounds.
Horsetooth Reservoir – Warming Up Mid-Month
Being a deeper lake, Horsetooth Reservoir maintains cooler water temperatures into May.
Smallmouth bass fishing typically activates mid-month in the coves. Plan your trips accordingly
as walleye conclude their spawning period with the bite improving toward the end of May.
Cherry Creek Reservoir – Tracking Walleye Movement
Cherry Creek Reservoir walleyes follow a predictable pattern in May, beginning the month in the
basin before transitioning toward shallower waters by month’s end. This migration pattern
creates diverse fishing opportunities throughout May.
Chatfield Reservoir – Technique-Specific Success
Chatfield Reservoir in Littleton offers excellent walleye and smallmouth action during May.
Anglers can catch significant numbers of walleyes using jigging techniques and live bait
presentations. For those targeting smallmouth, success comes from casting jigs and using wacky
worms.
Jackson Reservoir – Trophy Wiper Opportunity
Jackson Reservoir typically becomes productive for both wipers and walleye in early May. The
lake harbors some genuine trophy-sized wipers that should be on every serious angler’s bucket
list.
Carter Reservoir – Early Spawners and Trout Action
Carter Reservoir walleyes generally spawn in early May. Additionally, the trout bite can be
productive during this period, offering multi-species opportunities.
Union Reservoir – Shore Fishing Despite Low Water
Union Reservoir in Longmont is currently experiencing low water levels due to headgate repairs.
Water levels aren’t expected to rise until June. Despite these conditions, shore anglers can still
target wipers and crappies near the inlet area.
BONUS: Glendo Reservoir, Wyoming
For those willing to travel a bit farther, Glendo Reservoir in Wyoming offers exceptional walleye
fishing. In early May, walleye move upriver to spawn. The bite improves with minnows as fish
return to the lake. Plan extended trips for late May, as walleyes spread throughout the reservoir,
creating some of the year’s best walleye fishing from late May through June.
Brad Petersen Outdoors is your guide to Northern Colorado fishing success. Whether you’re
targeting Colorado walleye, smallmouth bass, or trophy wipers, our local expertise ensures
you’re on fish. Check back monthly for updated fishing forecasts for Boyd Lake, Horsetooth
Reservoir, Cherry Creek Reservoir, Chatfield Reservoir, Jackson Reservoir, Carter Reservoir,
and Union Reservoir.
