Colorado River Fish Stocking
Utah · 1997–2022 on record
According to Utah DWR — Fish Stocking Events (1979–2024 archive), Colorado River was last stocked April 18, 2022 with Bonytail Chub. Colorado River has 32 stocking records on file, spanning 1997–2022, with about 147,956 fish stocked over that period.
When Colorado River is stocked
Colorado River is typically stocked in fall, most often in October — 12 stocking events in that peak month.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Colorado River
Practical advice on fish behavior, recommended tackle, and state regulations for anglers fishing in Utah.
Post-Plant Behavior & Timing
Hatchery-raised fish are conditioned to pelleted feed and open raceways. Following a release into Colorado River, they typically congregate in schools near public access points, boat ramps, or inlets for the first 24 to 48 hours while adjusting to natural water conditions.
Since Colorado River was last stocked April 18, 2022, anglers visiting within 1 to 2 weeks of a reported event generally experience the highest activity before fish disperse into deeper cover.
State Regulations & Licensing
- •Fishing License: A valid Utah freshwater fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older.Purchase Utah license online →
- •Official Rules & Limits: Bag limits, bait restrictions, and seasonal boundaries are set by Utah fish & wildlife agency.Official Utah regulations guidebook →
- •Ethical Conservation: Use barbless hooks and keep fish submerged in water during unhooking.
Recommended Tackle & Presentations
Techniques tailored to the species stocked in Colorado River:
Recommended Tackle for Colorado River
Field-tested tackle and presentations matched to the species stocked here.
Aluminum Fishing Pliers with Braid Cutters
Safely removes hooks, pinches split-shot sinkers, and cleanly snips braided, mono, and fluorocarbon lines.
Plano Waterproof Utility Tackle Box Tray (3600)
Keeps terminal tackle, weights, and spinners dry and corrosion-free with customizable compartments.
As an Amazon Associate, StockedWaters earns from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are chosen for hatchery-conditioned fish behavior and ethical rigging. We may receive a referral commission if you buy through these links. Read our editorial policy & standards.
Nearby stocked waters
Other stocked waters near Colorado River, freshest activity first.
Medicine Lake
27 miSAN JUAN County · 2 species · 73 records
Last stocked July 2026
Dark Canyon Lake
31 miSAN JUAN County · 4 species · 156 records
Last stocked July 2026
Oowah Lake
27 miGRAND County · 2 species · 131 records
Last stocked July 2026
Warner Lake
28 miGRAND County · 1 species · 102 records
Last stocked July 2026
Dons Lake
33 miGRAND County · 3 species · 140 records
Last stocked June 2026
Foy Lake
35 miSAN JUAN County · 3 species · 166 records
Last stocked April 2026
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 18, 2022 | Bonytail Chub | 1,989 | 9.42" | Utah DWR |
| April 18, 2022 | Bonytail Chub | 1,989 | 9.42" | Utah DWR |
| May 4, 2015 | Bonytail Chub | 4,509 | 8.2" | Utah DWR |
| October 11, 2012 | Bonytail Chub | 2,734 | 9.54" | Utah DWR |
| October 24, 2011 | Bonytail Chub | 2,089 | 8.41" | Utah DWR |
| October 24, 2011 | Bonytail Chub | 2,089 | 8.41" | Utah DWR |
| September 30, 2010 | Bonytail Chub | 5,000 | 3" | Utah DWR |
| October 21, 2009 | Bonytail Chub | 1,598 | 7.93" | Utah DWR |
Show 24 more stocking records →
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 30, 2009 | Bonytail Chub | 5,000 | 3" | Utah DWR |
| November 18, 2008 | Bonytail Chub | 2,652 | 8.05" | Utah DWR |
| September 30, 2008 | Bonytail Chub | 5,000 | 3" | Utah DWR |
| November 16, 2007 | Bonytail Chub | 2,662 | 8.2" | Utah DWR |
| October 1, 2007 | Bonytail Chub | 5,000 | 3" | Utah DWR |
| November 8, 2006 | Bonytail Chub | 3,284 | 7.04" | Utah DWR |
| October 1, 2006 | Bonytail Chub | 5,000 | 3" | Utah DWR |
| September 20, 2005 | Bonytail Chub | 3,501 | 7.04" | Utah DWR |
| May 29, 2005 | Bonytail Chub | 5,000 | 3" | Utah DWR |
| October 8, 2003 | Bonytail Chub | 6,000 | 4.75" | Utah DWR |
| April 17, 2001 | Bonytail Chub | 13,960 | 3.72" | Utah DWR |
| April 17, 2001 | Bonytail Chub | 14,008 | 3.72" | Utah DWR |
| November 1, 2000 | Bonytail Chub | 2,237 | 4.35" | Utah DWR |
| November 1, 2000 | Bonytail Chub | 6,333 | 6.03" | Utah DWR |
| November 1, 2000 | Bonytail Chub | 6,333 | 6.03" | Utah DWR |
| November 1, 2000 | Bonytail Chub | 6,333 | 6.03" | Utah DWR |
| April 25, 2000 | Bonytail Chub | 15,035 | 3.54" | Utah DWR |
| April 23, 1999 | Bonytail Chub | 10,017 | 3.98" | Utah DWR |
| October 27, 1998 | Bonytail Chub | 1,844 | 4.94" | Utah DWR |
| October 27, 1998 | Bonytail Chub | 3,000 | 8.22" | Utah DWR |
| October 14, 1998 | Bonytail Chub | 1,436 | 8.94" | Utah DWR |
| March 17, 1998 | Bonytail Chub | 114 | 11.96" | Utah DWR |
| October 20, 1997 | Bonytail Chub | 2,200 | 5.91" | Utah DWR |
| October 20, 1997 | Bonytail Chub | 10 | 16.57" | Utah DWR |
Frequently asked
When was Colorado River last stocked?
According to Utah DWR — Fish Stocking Events (1979–2024 archive), Colorado River was last stocked April 18, 2022 with Bonytail Chub.
What fish species are stocked in Colorado River?
Colorado River is stocked with Bonytail Chub.
What time of year is Colorado River stocked?
Colorado River is typically stocked in fall, most often in October.
How often is Colorado River stocked?
Colorado River has been stocked about 1 times a year — 32 recorded stockings between 1997 and 2022.
How many fish have been stocked in Colorado River?
About 147,956 fish have been stocked in Colorado River across 32 recorded events since 1997, per Utah fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Colorado River?
Fish stocked in Colorado River average about 6.5 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Colorado River?
Yes, all anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid Utah freshwater fishing license. Always review current regulations from Utah fish & wildlife agency for site-specific rules, bag limits, or stamps.