Quick Info
Distance from Basalt: 14 miles up Frying Pan Road. Elevation: 7,800 feet. Activities: Fishing, boating, camping, hiking. Fish species: Kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, brown trout, mackinaw. Season: May-October for full access. Fee: Day use and boat launch fees apply.
Ruedi Reservoir is a mountain lake in the Frying Pan Valley, about 14 miles upstream from Basalt. The 1,000-acre reservoir offers fishing, boating, camping, and hiking in a scenic high-country setting. It's also the source of the famous Frying Pan River tailwater fishery below the dam.
Fishing
Species
Kokanee salmon are the primary draw, especially during the fall spawning run. Rainbow trout, brown trout, and mackinaw (lake trout) are also present. Shore fishing and boat fishing both productive.
Kokanee Salmon
Best fishing August through October. Trolling from boats is most effective. Shore anglers can catch them near inlets during spawning.
Trout
Rainbow and brown trout throughout the reservoir. Traditional trout tactics work—lures, flies, or bait (where allowed).
Boating
Boat Ramp
Public boat ramp available. Launch fee required. Ramp can be busy on summer weekends.
Boat Types
Motorboats, sailboats, kayaks, and paddleboards all welcome. Wakeless zones near shore. No swimming from boats.
Rentals
Limited rental options—check locally or bring your own. Kayak and SUP rentals sometimes available in Basalt.
Camping
Ruedi Creek Campground
Forest Service campground near the reservoir. Sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Reservable through Recreation.gov.
Mollie B Campground
Additional camping option in the area. First-come, first-served sites available.
Dispersed Camping
Free dispersed camping available in the surrounding White River National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles.
Hiking
Trails in the surrounding forest offer hiking options. The Frying Pan Road continues beyond the reservoir into high country with additional trailheads.
Tips
Arrive early on weekends. The boat ramp and parking areas fill up in summer.
Bring layers. At 7,800 feet, temperatures can drop quickly, even in summer.
Check water levels. Reservoir levels vary seasonally. Low water can affect boat launching.
Reserve campsites. Popular campgrounds book up for summer weekends. Reserve ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim at Ruedi Reservoir?
Swimming is allowed but the water is cold. No designated swimming beach.
Do I need a Colorado fishing license?
Yes. License required for anyone 16 and older. Available online or at local shops.
Is the road to Ruedi paved?
Yes. Frying Pan Road is paved all the way to the reservoir.
When is the best time for kokanee?
August through October. The fall spawning run brings the best action.