Looking to try a new winter activity off the slopes? Ice fishing has grown in popularity in Colorado over the last several years, and for good reason! It is a relaxing way to get outside and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the Rocky Mountains! There are two ice fishing outfitters in Summit County, Alpine Fishing Adventures and Big Ed’s Fishing Ventures, both offering fully guided tours on Dillon Reservoir led by expert anglers. From around Thanksgiving to the middle of April, you have the opportunity to experience a new outdoor hobby in the heart of Ski Country!

  • What should I wear? Dress like you are going skiing! Waterproof or water-resistant pants and coat, warm base and mid-layers, gloves, hat, balaclava, etc.
  • What should I bring? Both outfitters will supply all fishing gear including fishing equipment, tackle, and heated huts. You will need to purchase your Colorado fishing license.
  • What type of fish will we catch? Dillon Reservoir is home to Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Kokanee Salmon, and Arctic Char!
  • Is this beginner-friendly? Yes! Both Alpine Fishing Adventures and Big Ed’s cater to novice anglers and have tours suitable for children and families.

Alpine Fishing Adventures offers fully guided ice fishing trips on Dillon Reservoir! Alpine Fishing provides ice fishing huts with heaters, all gear, tackle, bait, and ice fishing sonar devices. They offer three levels of trips to accommodate people of all ages, fishing skills, and ice fishing interests! If you want to catch some dinner, Alpine Fishing Adventures will clean and send you home with up to eight kokanee salmon of any size and rainbow trout under 14 inches. Dress like you are going skiing, and bring your fishing license and snacks. Alpine Fishing Adventures will take care of the rest for you!

Green Circle

The 3-hour or one-third day “Green Circle” ice fishing trip is the most affordable guided ice fishing trip available. They can tailor the “Green Circle” trip to accommodate families with very young children and guests who are mobility impaired or use a wheelchair. This is the perfect tour for visitors who want to dip their toes into ice fishing!

  • Start Time: 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Cost: 1-2 person $200 | 3 people $275 | 4 people $315 | 4+ add $50 per person.

Blue Square

The 4-hour or half-day ”Blue Square” trip gives guests the chance to experience more with more time on the ice and multiple lake access options. These trips typically result in more and bigger fish! Alpine Fishing Adventures can tailor the trip to beginners, family style, or more advanced and avid ice-fishing anglers.

  • Start Time: 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Cost: 1 person $175 | 2 people $245 | 3 people $310 | 4 people $355 | 4+ add $50 per person.

Black Diamond

The “Black Diamond” is for the more avid angler looking to target Lake Dillon’s magnificent brown trout, Arctic char, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon. In some conditions, the ability to hike up and down a snowy embankment or walk through snow for 20 minutes is required. On this trip, you will fish in multiple spots and venture upon the entire lake when conditions allow!

  • Start Time: 7 a.m.
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Cost: 1 person $225 | 2 people $325 | 3 people $400 | 4 people $475 | 4+ add $50 per person.

Big Ed’s, the longest-running ice-fishing outfitter in Summit County, offers ice-fishing adventures suitable for every level of angler. Their tours can be catered to families, bachelor parties, work functions, or people who just want to try something new! No experience is required, and Big Ed’s will provide all fishing gear as well as heated shelter. Their knowledgeable guides will take you on the adventure of a lifetime as you fish for trout, salmon, and char in the frozen world beneath Dillon Reservoir!

Three-Hour Tour

The three-hour tour is a great place to start for those wanting to begin exploring ice fishing. With 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. start times, you and your group can be anglers for part of the day as you head out to Lake Dillon for brown trout, kokanee salmon, and arctic char. It is typical for each group to catch a few fish!

  • Start Time: 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Cost: 1-2 people $225 | 3 people $260 | 4 people $315 | 4+ add $50 per person

Four-Hour Tour

For those looking for a little bit more of an in-depth ice-fishing experience, the more extended four-hour tour is the option for you! Like the three-hour tour, the four-hour option will take you onto Dillon Reservoir in search of fish beneath the frozen surface.

  • Start Time: 8:30 a.m.
  • Duration:  4 hours
  • Cost: 1-2 people $275 | 3 people $350 | 4 people $395 | 4+ add $65 per person

Related Articles

,

Dog Sledding with Good Times Adventures

Discover the snowy winter wonderland of Breckenridge with Good Times Adventures on a dog-sledding excursion! Traverse six miles of scenic winter trails winding through the Swan River Valley. Led by knowledgeable guides, guests learn the ins…
, ,

Lake Loops

Looking for a way to enjoy the Colorado winter sunshine off the slopes? The Town of Dillon presents "Lake Loops" a winter track on the Dillon Reservoir! Take in the views of Peak One, Buffalo Mountain, and the Tenmile Range while you walk,…
, , ,

Snowshoeing in Breckenridge

If you're looking to enjoy the snowy mountain views but need a break from skiing, snowshoeing is the way to go! It’s a fun way to get some exercise, unwind, and explore the outdoors without dealing with the crowds. Whether you're a newbie…
, ,

Cupid-Approved Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Breckenridge. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or looking for the perfect way to spend the day with your significant other, we’ve got you…
,

Snowmobiling Tours

Are you ready to embrace adventure and try something new this winter? If so, snowmobiling could be just the activity you’ve been looking for! While snowmobiling is one of Colorado’s most popular winter pastimes, it can seem a bit intimidating…
,

No Skis Required: Off-the-Slopes Activities

Breckenridge in winter is all about skiing, but sometimes you need a break from the slopes to mix things up or try something new. Whether you're looking to relax, explore town, or just give your legs a rest, there’s plenty to do off the mountain.…
,

Ski & Snowboard Lessons

Breckenridge’s Ski and Snowboard School offers various programs to help meet your specific needs- whether it's your first day or you're looking to hone your skills. There are three separate ski and snowboard school locations in Breckenridge:…
, ,

Holiday Events

Breckenridge is a great place to celebrate the holidays, whether you're a local or just visiting. The town has plenty of fun events, from festive parades and markets to outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy. Whether you’re looking…
, ,

Friends of the Dillon Ranger District: Winter Programs

One of our most treasured local non-profit organizations, Friends of Dillon Ranger District (FDRD), offers a variety of programs to keep us learning and exploring all winter long! Friends of Dillon Ranger District is an active, locally based…