Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado

Located south of Crested Butte along Colorado's scenic Highway 149, the Blue Mesa Dam, the first of three dams along the Gunnison River, holds back Colorado's largest body of water, the Blue Mesa Reservoir. The 96 miles of shoreline found around the Blue Mesa are home to some of the most relaxing boating, fishing and camping in Western Colorado.

History
The Blue Mesa Dam was built in 1965, flooding 20 miles of upstream river and providing water for agriculture, electricity and recreation.

Fishing
Blue Mesa Reservoir's low crowds, good variety of trout and other fish and the largest Kakanee Salmon fishery in the United States all combine to offer anglers an idyllic setting. The deep waters of the reservoir have been known to give up more than one record fish, including the largest lake tout caught in Colorado, a 50 pound, 5 ounce fish caught in 2007. Fly fishers will be enthralled with the creek fishing in the beautiful creeks that feed into the reservoir.

Other recreation
Over 35 miles long, the Blue Mesa Reservoir has ample opportunities for boating and spectacular scenery to enjoy while sailing, water skiing or swimming. Multiple marinas and guide services offer everything from boat rentals to fishing guides. And the serene campsites along the reservoir provide scenic spots to rest your head at night.