If you have got a Colorado fishing license and a few hours to spare, Beaver Lake near Marble might be the most underrated alpine trout fishery in the state. It’s small, stocked regularly, and surrounded by the kind of scenery you would expect from a postcard but most anglers still do not know it exists. Here’s everything you need to plan a successful trip.
This guide covers everything you need to know about fish species, best times to visit, water temperatures, fishing techniques, permits and even a map to help you plan your trip.
Overview of Beaver Lake, Colorado

Location: Beaver Lake is located just outside the town of Marble, Colorado, in Gunnison County. It sits at an elevation of about 7,950 feet in the Elk Mountains, surrounded by forested hillsides and dramatic mountain views.
Size & Depth: The lake covers roughly 10 acres and reaches a depth of about 30 feet at its deepest point. While small compared to major Colorado lakes, its alpine setting makes it an excellent fishing destination.
History:
- The Town of Marble manages the lake with support from Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW).
- Historically, Beaver Lake was used as a water reservoir for Marble but has since become a popular recreational area.
- Today, it’s stocked regularly with trout, making it a reliable fishing spot for locals and tourists.
Is Beaver Lake Worth the Drive?
Honestly? Yes but it depends on what you are looking for.
Beaver Lake is small, quiet and sits at nearly 8,000 feet surrounded by mountains. It’s not a trophy fishing destination. But if you want a relaxing day catching stocked trout in one of the most beautiful settings in Colorado, it absolutely delivers.
I have also seen families catch their limit before noon here. The crowds are nothing compared to bigger lakes, and the scenery alone makes the drive worthwhile.
What Fish Are in Beaver Lake?

When anglers ask about Beaver Lake fish, the most common answer is trout. The lake is stocked several times a year, ensuring good catch rates for both beginners and experienced anglers.
How to Get to Beaver Lake
Beaver Lake is located just outside Marble, Colorado on County Road 3. The town of Marble itself is easy to miss on a map, so here are the actual driving directions from nearby cities.
From Glenwood Springs (~45 minutes)
Take CO-82 East toward Carbondale, then turn south on CO-133. Follow CO-133 through Carbondale and Redstone all the way to Marble. Once in Marble, follow signs to Beaver Lake — it’s on the east side of town. Total drive: about 45 minutes, all paved.
From Aspen (~1 hour)
Head west on CO-82 toward Carbondale, then turn south on CO-133 through Redstone to Marble. The drive is scenic along the Crystal River the whole way down.
From Denver (~3.5 hours)
Take I-70 West to Glenwood Springs, then follow CO-82 East to CO-133 South into Marble. Plan for a full day trip — it’s worth combining with a stop at the Crystal Mill or Marble Quarry.
Parking: There’s a small gravel parking area near the lake. It fills up on summer weekends by mid-morning. Arrive before 8 AM to get a good spot.
Cell service: Don’t count on it in Marble. Download offline maps on Google Maps or use the Gaia GPS app before you leave. The road in is paved but narrow in sections.
Road note: CO-133 can close temporarily in winter due to snow or rockfall. Check CDOT road conditions at cotrip.org before any winter or early spring visit.
Current Stocking Schedule and How to Check It
This is the one thing most anglers skip and then wonder why the bite was slow.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks Beaver Lake multiple times a year, typically in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). Fresh stockings mean active fish near the surface and much better catch rates.
How to check before you go:
- Visit cpw.state.co.us
- Click on “Fishing” → “Stocking Reports”
- Search for Beaver Lake or Gunnison County
- Check the most recent stocking date
If the lake was stocked within the last 2–3 weeks, go. If it’s been 2+ months with no stocking, manage your expectations or target the inlet stream instead where wild brook trout hold year-round.
Pro tip: FishExplorer.com also tracks Colorado stocking reports and has user-submitted fishing reports for Beaver Lake. Check both before making the drive.
Common Species in Beaver Lake:
Rainbow Trout
- Most frequently stocked fish.
- Average size: 10–14 inches.
- Best caught with worms, Powerbait, or small spinners.
Brook Trout
- Native to cold mountain streams.
- Often smaller (8–12 inches) but aggressive feeders.
- Fly fishing with dry flies works well.
Cutthroat Trout
- Occasionally stocked.
- Colorado’s state fish, valued by fly anglers.
- Catch-and-release recommended in some areas.
Brown Trout (less common)
- May enter from nearby streams.
- Larger and more challenging to catch.
If you are planning fishing in Beaver Lake expect a good chance of landing rainbow and brook trout on almost any day of the season.
Best Fishing Seasons & Water Temperature Guide
Since Beaver Lake is an alpine lake, seasons play a major role in fishing success.
Spring (April–June)
- Ice melts by late April or early May.
- Stocking usually begins in spring.
- Water temperature: 40–55°F.
- Trout are active near the surface.
Summer (July–August)
- Peak fishing season.
- Water warms to 55–65°F.
- Fish move deeper during hot afternoons.
- Early morning and evening are best times.
Fall (September–October)
- Cooler temps make trout more aggressive.
- Fewer crowds, stunning fall colors.
- Great for fly fishing.
Winter (November–March)
- Ice fishing is possible when the lake freezes over.
- Safety is essential (check ice thickness).
- Trout feed less actively but can still be caught with jigs and bait.
Knowing the water temperature at Beaver Lake is crucial. Trout bite best between 50–65°F. You can check CPW or local fishing reports for updates before heading out.
Best Fishing Spots on the Lake
Beaver Lake is small about 10 to 20 acres so knowing where to stand makes a real difference.
North Shore
This is where most anglers set up because it’s closest to the parking area. It’s great for beginners and families. Plenty of room to cast, and stocked rainbows cruise this area regularly after fresh stockings. Use PowerBait or worms here on a simple bobber rig.
West Dike
The dike on the western end gives you elevated casting position over deeper water. This is the best shore spot for fly fishing and for reaching the middle of the lake without a boat. Early morning is prime here — trout stack along the drop-off just past the dike edge.
South Inlet – Beaver Creek
Where Beaver Creek flows into the lake is consistently the best spot for wild brook trout. The moving water brings in food and the trout hold in the seam between current and still water. Use small spinners or dry flies here. Even when the main lake is slow, this inlet produces.
Deep Center (Boat or Float Tube Access)
In summer when surface temps rise above 65°F, trout push deeper. If you have a kayak, canoe, or float tube, working the center of the lake with a slow-trolled Rapala or small spinner at depth will find fish that shore anglers can’t reach.
Fishing Techniques (Shore, Boat, Fly Fishing, Bait)

Beaver Lake has small sizes, making it versatile; you can fish from the shore, use small boats, or try fly fishing in nearby creeks.
Shore Fishing
- Best for beginners and families.
- Cast from the north and west shores.
- Use worms, salmon eggs, or Powerbait for rainbow trout.
Boat Fishing
- Non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, float tubes) are allowed.
- It gives access to deeper sections in summer.
- Try trolling small spinners or Rapala lures.
Fly Fishing
- Great in Beaver Creek (which feeds the lake) and nearby streams.
- Dry flies in summer (caddis, mayflies).
- Nymphs and streamers work well in deeper water.
Recommended Baits & Lures
- Powerbait & Worms: reliable for stocked rainbow trout.
- Small Spinners: (Mepps, Panther Martin).
- Flies: elk hair caddis, Adams, woolly buggers.
- Salmon Eggs: effective for brook trout.
Tip: The early morning and late evening are the most productive times, especially during the summer.
Rules, Permits & Regulations

The Town of Marble and Colorado Parks & Wildlife manage fishing at Beaver Lake. Always check current regulations before fishing.
General Rules:
- A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 years or older.
- Daily bag limit: usually 4 trout per person (check CPW for updates).
- Only artificial flies and lures may be allowed in certain areas—bait is legal in Beaver Lake but not always in nearby creeks.
- Non-motorized boats only.
- Respect private property signs around the lake.
Licenses can be purchased online from CPW or at local shops in Marble and Carbondale.
Beaver Lake Fishing Map:
While we can’t embed an interactive map here, here’s a general layout of Beaver Lake fishing spots:
- North Shore: Best for shore anglers, good access near parking.
- West Side: Shaded areas, good for fly fishing.
- South Inlet (Beaver Creek): Excellent for brook trout and fly fishing.
- Central Lake (boat access): Deeper water, good for trolling in summer.
Pro Tip: Download offline maps before heading out cell service in Marble is limited.
Safety Tips
Never go out on ice less than 4 inches thick. At Beaver Lake’s elevation, ice conditions can vary across the lake test every few steps when venturing out for the first time each season. Tell someone where you’re going. Bring ice picks around your neck in case you go through.
Check with local outfitters in Carbondale or Marble before heading out they will know current ice conditions better than any website.
FAQs About Fishing Beaver Lake
What kind of fish are in Beaver Lake, Colorado?
Primarily rainbow and brook trout, with occasional cutthroat and brown trout.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, a Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16+.
Can I use bait at Beaver Lake?
Yes, bait such as worms, PowerBait, and salmon eggs are allowed in the lake.
How big is Beaver Lake?
About 10 acres in size, with a depth of ~30 feet.
What’s the best time for Beaver Lake fishing?
Summer (July–August) is most popular, but spring and fall offer cooler temps and active trout.
Is ice fishing allowed?
Yes, but only when ice conditions are safe. Always check the thickness before venturing out.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a weekend angler or an experienced fly fisherman, fishing Beaver Lake is a must-do Colorado adventure. With stunning mountain scenery, reliable trout stockings, and easy access from Marble, the lake is perfect for a family outing or a solo fishing trip.
From rainbow trout on PowerBait to fly fishing in Beaver Creek, this alpine gem has plenty to offer. Just remember your license, follow the rules, and check the water temperature before heading out.
If you’re planning a Colorado fishing trip, make sure Beaver Lake fishing is on your list; you won’t be disappointed.

