Fishing Quincy Reservoir: What to Expect in Central Colorado

What Quincy Reservoir offers and where it sits

Quincy Reservoir is a small impoundment in central Colorado, roughly 20 miles northeast of Aurora near the town of Strasburg. It holds warm water and sits at about 5,200 feet elevation on the plains east of the Front Range foothills. The reservoir covers roughly 150 acres when full, though water levels fluctuate with irrigation demand and seasonal runoff.

The lake is managed by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and operates as a day-use only facility. There is no overnight camping at the reservoir itself, though several campgrounds exist within an hour's drive. The setting is high plains—open, windswept, and exposed—so expect afternoon wind and intense sun, especially in summer.

Key Takeaways

• Quincy Reservoir holds warm-water species including walleye, catfish, and crappie, with walleye being the primary draw for many anglers.
• A Colorado Parks and Wildlife Parks Pass is required to enter; day passes cost a set amount and are purchased at the entrance or online.
• The reservoir is day-use only with no overnight camping, and facilities are minimal—bring your own water and shade.
• Spring and fall typically produce better fishing than summer, when afternoon heat and wind intensify and water clarity drops.
• Bank access is limited; most productive fishing requires a boat, though a few shoreline spots hold fish near the dam and inlet.

Fish species and seasonal patterns at Quincy

Walleye are the main target here. They respond well to live bait—shiners, minnows, and crawfish work best—fished on the bottom in deeper water. Early morning and evening are prime times, especially in spring and fall when water temperatures favor active feeding. Walleye bite slows considerably in midsummer when they retreat to deeper, cooler zones.

Catfish are abundant and willing. Channel catfish and some flatheads inhabit the reservoir. Cut bait, chicken liver, and stink baits draw them reliably, particularly at night. Summer is actually prime catfish season here because they feed aggressively in warm water. Fish the deeper holes and channel ledges after sunset.

Crappie and bluegill provide consistent action, especially in spring when they move shallow to spawn. Small jigs, live minnows, and panfish baits work. These species are less demanding than walleye and offer good options if you are new to the reservoir or prefer lighter tackle.

Water clarity at Quincy varies. Spring runoff and irrigation releases can cloud the water, which actually helps walleye bite. By mid-to-late summer, clarity improves but water temperature climbs, pushing fish deeper and slowing the bite. Fall cooling brings walleye back to shallower structure.

Access, facilities, and what to bring

Quincy Reservoir is day-use only. There is one main parking area near the dam and boat launch. A Colorado Parks and Wildlife Parks Pass is required; you can purchase a day pass at the entrance or online through the CPW website. The pass covers entry for one vehicle.

Facilities are minimal. There is a paved boat launch, vault toilets, and a few picnic tables. There is no running water, no shade structures, and no bait shop on-site. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat or umbrella. In summer, afternoon wind can be severe, so secure any loose gear and consider a windbreak if you are fishing from shore.

A boat is strongly recommended. Bank access is limited to a small area near the dam and the inlet stream. Most of the productive water is accessible only by boat. If you do not own one, boat rentals are not available at Quincy itself, but several marinas within 30 to 45 minutes offer rentals and can advise on the best approach to this reservoir.

Tackle and bait recommendations

For walleye, bring medium-action spinning or baitcasting rods with 6- to 8-pound monofilament or braided line. Live bait rigs with a slip sinker and size 2 to 4 hooks work well. Jigging with small soft plastics (2 to 3 inches) in white, chartreuse, or natural colors also produces. Fish the bottom structure and drop-offs, especially where the inlet creek enters the reservoir.

Catfish tackle can be simpler: medium-heavy rods, 10- to 15-pound line, and larger hooks (2/0 to 5/0) to accommodate cut bait. A three-way rig or simple slip sinker setup keeps bait on the bottom where catfish hunt. Bring a headlamp if you plan to fish after dark.

For crappie and bluegill, light spinning rods with 4- to 6-pound line and small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) or live minnows on size 8 to 10 hooks are ideal. A small bobber helps keep bait at the right depth during the spawn.

Best times to fish Quincy Reservoir

Spring (March through May) is excellent. Water temperatures warm gradually, walleye become active, and crappie spawn in the shallows. Runoff can cloud the water, which helps walleye bite. Mornings and evenings are most productive, but overcast days can produce all day.

Summer (June through August) is challenging for walleye but good for catfish. Afternoon heat and wind intensify. If you fish walleye in summer, focus on early morning (before 8 a.m.) or evening (after 6 p.m.) and fish deeper water. Catfish bite best at night. Midday is often slow and uncomfortable.

Fall (September through November) rivals spring. Cooling water brings walleye back to shallower structure. Crappie bite improves. Wind can still be strong, but temperatures are more comfortable. October is often the most consistent month for walleye.

Winter (December through February) is possible but less popular. Ice-out timing varies, and the reservoir can be too cold for comfortable fishing. Some anglers pursue catfish through the ice, but access and conditions are unpredictable.

Regulations and licensing requirements

A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are available online through the CPW website, at sporting goods stores, and at some convenience stores. You can purchase a one-day license, a five-day license, or an annual license depending on your needs.

Quincy Reservoir has specific regulations on species, bag limits, and size restrictions. Walleye, catfish, and crappie each have their own limits, which can change year to year. Check the current CPW fishing regulations before you go—they are published online and updated annually. Possession limits are enforced, so keep track of what you have caught.

The reservoir is open year-round for fishing, but day-use hours are typically sunrise to sunset. Camping and overnight stays are not permitted.

Getting there from Aurora and nearby options

From Aurora, take I-70 east toward Denver, then exit onto Highway 36 north toward Strasburg. Continue northeast on local roads toward Quincy. The drive is roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic and your starting point in Aurora. GPS coordinates or a map app will get you to the parking area.

If Quincy is too far or the conditions do not suit you, several other reservoirs are closer to Aurora. Chatfield Reservoir (southwest of Aurora) is larger and offers more amenities. Bear Creek Lake (south of Aurora) is smaller but closer. Both have different fish populations and access options, so exploring them gives you backup choices when wind or water conditions at Quincy are poor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Quincy Reservoir?

A boat is not required but is strongly recommended. Bank access is limited to a small area near the dam. Most productive water and deeper structure are accessible only by boat. If you do not have one, consider renting from a marina within 30 to 45 minutes, or focus your efforts on the dam and inlet areas where shore fishing is possible.

What is the best bait for walleye at Quincy?

Live shiners, minnows, and crawfish are most effective. Fish them on the bottom in deeper water using a slip sinker rig with a size 2 to 4 hook. Early morning and evening are prime times. Small soft plastic jigs in white or chartreuse also work well, especially in spring and fall.

Can I camp overnight at Quincy Reservoir?

No, Quincy is day-use only. There is no overnight camping at the reservoir. Several campgrounds exist within an hour's drive in the surrounding area, including options near Strasburg and along I-70. Plan to return to Aurora or a nearby town for lodging.

What should I bring for a day of fishing at Quincy?

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and a windbreak or umbrella—afternoon wind and sun are intense on the plains. There is no running water or shade at the reservoir. Bring your own bait or tackle, a headlamp if fishing after dark, and a cooler for fish and drinks. A boat is recommended but not required.

When is the worst time to fish Quincy Reservoir?

Midsummer (July and August) is slowest for walleye due to heat and low water clarity. Afternoon wind is strongest then, making conditions uncomfortable. Winter is possible but unpredictable due to ice-out timing and cold. Spring and fall are most reliable for consistent fishing and pleasant conditions.