What You'll Find at Lon Hagler

Lon Hagler Reservoir is a 1,600-acre impoundment on the South Platte River northeast of Loveland, Colorado, built primarily for water storage and flood control. The lake holds walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and channel catfish, with walleye being the most reliable target year-round. The reservoir sits at 5,000 feet elevation in semi-arid terrain, so water levels fluctuate significantly with irrigation demands—summer drawdowns are common and can expose mudflats and change where fish hold.

The lake is managed by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and requires a valid Colorado fishing license. Access is straightforward: a public boat ramp and parking area sit on the north shore, and bank fishing is allowed along designated areas. The setting is open and windswept, with little shade, so plan for sun exposure and afternoon wind that can make boat handling difficult.

Key Takeaways

  • Walleye fishing is most consistent in spring and fall when they move into shallower water; summer requires deeper presentations and night fishing for best results.
  • The reservoir drops significantly in summer due to irrigation, so check current water levels before you go and expect the shoreline to change.
  • A Colorado fishing license is required; you can purchase one online through the CPW website or at local sporting goods stores in Loveland.
  • The north shore boat ramp is the primary access point, and afternoon wind can exceed 20 mph, making morning trips safer for smaller boats.

Walleye: The Most Reliable Target

Walleye dominate Lon Hagler's fishery and respond well to live bait presentations. In spring (April through May), walleye move into 8 to 15 feet of water along the main basin and the old river channel that runs through the center of the lake. Live shiners or small crawfish under a slip bobber work consistently, and jigging with live minnows along structure produces steady catches. Dawn and dusk are prime times, though walleye will feed throughout the day in spring.

Summer fishing requires a shift to deeper water and night tactics. By June, walleye retreat to 25 to 40 feet where the water stays cooler. Vertical jigging with live minnows or blade baits works, but many anglers switch to night fishing in shallower water (6 to 12 feet) when walleye move up to feed after dark. Bring a headlamp and plan to fish from dusk through midnight. Fall (September through October) mirrors spring conditions—walleye return to mid-depth structure and respond to the same presentations that worked in April.

Northern Pike and Bass in Shallow Structure

Northern pike inhabit Lon Hagler's weedy shallows and respond aggressively to large lures. Focus on the northern and western arms of the reservoir where cattails and submerged vegetation create cover. Casting large swimbaits (4 to 6 inches), spinnerbaits, or crankbaits in 4 to 10 feet of water produces strikes, especially in spring and early summer before heavy drawdown. Pike fishing slows considerably once water levels drop and vegetation dies back in mid-summer.

Largemouth bass are present but less abundant than walleye or pike. They hold in the same shallow, weedy areas as pike and respond to similar lure presentations. Bass fishing is best in spring and early summer; by late July, the combination of low water and warm temperatures makes them lethargic. Channel catfish are available year-round and feed well on cut bait (chicken liver, mackerel, or skipjack) fished on the bottom in deeper holes, particularly at night.

Managing Water Level Fluctuations

Lon Hagler's water level is its defining challenge. The reservoir typically drops 15 to 25 feet from spring peak to late summer, exposing vast mudflats and changing fish location dramatically. In May, the lake may be full or near full; by August, it can be 20 feet lower. This drawdown pushes fish into the deepest remaining holes and makes shallow-water fishing nearly impossible.

Before you plan a trip, check the current water level through the CPW website or by calling the Loveland Parks and Recreation office. If the lake is in heavy drawdown, focus on the main basin and old river channel where deeper water persists. If levels are high (typically April through June), the entire shoreline becomes productive. Plan spring and early summer trips for maximum flexibility in where you can fish.

Boat Ramp, Access, and Timing

The north shore boat ramp is the only public launch and sits in a small developed area with parking for about 20 vehicles and trailers. The ramp is concrete and well-maintained, but it can get steep during low-water periods—check conditions before launching a large boat. Bank fishing is allowed along the north shore and portions of the east side, though access is limited compared to the boat ramp area.

Afternoon wind is a consistent factor, often exceeding 20 mph by mid-day. Launch early—before 8 a.m.—if you're in a small boat or prefer calmer conditions. The lake sits in open country with no shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and extra water. Cell service is spotty, so let someone know your plans before you leave Loveland.

Tackle and Technique Essentials

For walleye, bring a 6 to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod with 6 to 8-pound monofilament or braided line. Live bait rigs (slip bobber or simple jig-and-minnow) are standard; carry a selection of 1/8 to 1/4-ounce jigs in white, chartreuse, and natural colors. For pike, step up to 8 to 10-pound line and heavier lures—swimbaits in the 4 to 6-inch range, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits that can handle aggressive strikes.

A fish finder is valuable for locating the old river channel and deeper holes, especially during summer when fish concentrate in limited areas. If you're bank fishing, a simple rod-and-reel setup with live bait works fine for walleye and catfish. Bring more tackle than you think you'll need—the wind can make retrieves difficult, and pike will test your knots.

When to Fish Lon Hagler

Spring (April through May) is the most consistent season. Water levels are typically high, fish are active, and weather is mild. Walleye and pike both feed aggressively, and you can fish shallow or deep depending on your preference. Early summer (June through early July) remains productive but requires deeper presentations and night fishing for walleye.

Late summer (mid-July through August) is the toughest period. Water levels drop significantly, fish concentrate in deep holes, and heat makes daytime fishing slow. If you fish this season, focus on night walleye fishing or early morning catfish. Fall (September through October) is excellent—water cools, levels stabilize briefly, and walleye return to mid-depth structure. Winter (November through March) is possible but cold and windy; some anglers fish for walleye through the ice, though conditions vary year to year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Lon Hagler?

No. Bank fishing is allowed along the north shore and portions of the east side, though access is limited compared to boat fishing. A boat gives you access to deeper water and the old river channel where walleye concentrate, but you can catch fish from shore with live bait or simple jigging presentations.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Dawn and dusk are most productive for walleye in spring and fall. In summer, night fishing (dusk through midnight) is often more effective than daytime. For pike and bass, morning and early evening are best. Afternoon wind makes boat handling difficult regardless of season.

How far is Lon Hagler from Loveland?

The reservoir is about 15 miles northeast of downtown Loveland, roughly a 20-minute drive. Take I-25 north to CO-34 east, then follow signs to the lake. The boat ramp is well-marked from the main road.

Can I keep fish I catch here?

Yes, within Colorado's statewide limits. Walleye have a 15-fish daily limit with a 24-inch minimum for one fish; pike have a 5-fish limit with a 24-inch minimum; bass have a 15-fish limit with a 12-inch minimum; catfish have a 25-fish limit. Check the current CPW regulations before you fish, as limits can change.

What should I do if water levels are very low?

Focus on the main basin and the old river channel where deeper water persists. The boat ramp may be steep or difficult to use, so check conditions first. Bank fishing becomes nearly impossible during heavy drawdown. If the lake is in severe drawdown, consider waiting for spring when levels recover.