Dillon Fishing Guides
Dillon fishing charters specialize in lake trout, kokanee salmon, and rainbow fishing on the cold, deep waters of Dillon Reservoir.
Top Rated Charters in Dillon
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Dillon, CO Fishing Guide
Fishing in Dillon, Colorado centers around Dillon Reservoir—a 3,200-acre high-mountain lake surrounded by alpine peaks and known for its cold, clear waters and solid year-round bite. Most fishing charters here are small and personal, running half-day or full-day trips focused on lake trout (mackinaw), kokanee salmon, and rainbow trout. While there’s no saltwater here, the deep freshwater structure offers something similar to deep-drop tactics, especially when targeting lakers in 80–100 feet of water.
Dillon Reservoir is located right off I-70 with easy access from Silverthorne and Frisco. Launch points are mainly the Dillon Marina on the northeast side and Frisco Bay Marina on the opposite end. Both allow quick access to main lake drop-offs, shoals, and submerged channels where fish hold through the seasons. Run times are short—most captains start marking fish within 10 minutes of launch.
Fly fishing isn’t the main draw here, but some anglers throw flies or spoons along the shoreline in spring and fall when rainbows cruise the shallows. Downriggers, jigging spoons, and vertical presentations dominate the deeper months. Ice fishing is a major part of the scene, with guides setting up full-service huts and using sonar to target schools of suspended kokanee or big trout on the bottom.
Dillon fishing charters run year-round, but the peak window for open water is May through October. Spring brings active rainbows, summer is prime for deeper trolling, fall is about aggressive salmon staging for the spawn, and winter is for hardwater diehards. Whether you’re looking to jig, troll, or ice fish, Dillon’s cold water and high elevation keep things interesting all season.
Fishing Seasons in Dillon
Spring (March–May)
As the ice comes off in April and early May, rainbow trout move into the shallows to feed and spawn. This is one of the best times for shoreline anglers and light tackle casting near rocky edges or inlet streams. Some kokanee and lake trout are still catchable, but rainbows steal the spotlight. Charters tend to stay shallow, using spinners, jerkbaits, or bait rigs to cover ground. Action is fast until the water warms and fish start sliding deeper.
Summer (June–August)
From June through August, the lake stratifies and fish push deep. This is when trolling and vertical jigging shine. Lake trout are often found between 60–100 feet, with guides using downriggers, leadcore line, or heavy jigs to reach them. Kokanee schools suspend mid-depth and respond to small dodgers and spoons. Rainbows are still around early mornings and late evenings in shallower pockets, especially near weed edges and rocky shelves.
Fall (September–November)
September and October bring cooler temps, and fish get more active again. Kokanee salmon move toward their spawning grounds in the Blue River Arm and Snake River inlet, and this staging period offers excellent action for jigging or trolling. Lake trout also put on the feedbag ahead of winter. The crowds thin, but the bite improves, and it’s one of the most underrated times to book a Dillon charter.
Winter (December–February)
From late November through March, Dillon Reservoir becomes a hardwater destination. Ice fishing for lake trout and kokanee is the main draw. Most charters set up heated shanties and use sonar to stay on the fish. Jigging tubes, spoons, and glow jigs tipped with sucker meat are the go-to tactics. It’s cold, but steady action and the chance for a big mack keep locals coming back.
Gamefish in Dillon
- Lake Trout (Mackinaw) – 18–36 inches. Found deep in the main basin year-round. Targeted with jigging spoons, tube jigs, or downriggers over 60–100 feet.
- Kokanee Salmon – 12–18 inches. Schooling fish suspended mid-depth in summer, staging shallower in fall. Trolled with small spoons or jigged under the ice.
- Rainbow Trout – 12–22 inches. Active in spring near the banks and inlet streams. Caught with bait rigs, spinners, or casting lures.
- Brown Trout – 14–24 inches. Less common but present around structure and drop-offs. Targeted with crankbaits or jigs.
Dillon Fishing FAQs
What types of trips are available with Dillon fishing Guides?
Most Dillon guides offer half-day and full-day lake trips, either from a boat in summer or on the ice in winter. Some specialize in kokanee or lake trout.
Do I need a fishing license in Dillon, Colorado?
Yes, a valid Colorado fishing license is required for all anglers over age 16. Most guides won’t provide this, so plan to buy it online or at a local shop.
What’s the best time of year to fish Dillon Reservoir?
The summer and fall months offer consistent action for lake trout and kokanee, while spring is great for rainbows. Winter ice fishing is also a big draw.
What’s the typical size of fish caught on Dillon trips?
Most lake trout run 18–30 inches, with the occasional trophy. Kokanee average around 14 inches, and rainbows can hit the low 20s.
Where do Dillon fishing guides usually launch from?
Launches are typically from Dillon Marina or Frisco Bay Marina. Both offer quick access to the lake’s main structure zones.
Are ice fishing trips available in Dillon?
Yes. Ice fishing is a big part of the local fishery from December through March, and guides often provide shacks, heaters, and all necessary gear.
Can I bring my own gear on a Dillon fishing adventure?
Most guides provide everything you need, but if you prefer using your own rods or electronics, just let the guide know in advance.
Is fly fishing popular in Dillon?
Fly fishing isn’t common on the lake itself but can be done in the nearby Blue River and Snake River inlets, especially in spring.
What kind of techniques do Dillon guides use?
In summer, it’s mostly trolling or jigging deep water. Winter is about vertical jigging through the ice. Spring and fall allow for more casting and lighter presentations.