West Pond is a quiet, roughly 5-acre fishery sitting just outside of Gilcrest, Colorado - and if you're looking for a place to wet a line without the crowds, this is it. Drive straight to the water's edge, set up however you like, and enjoy a stretch of Colorado countryside that sees almost no fishing pressure. Wide open skies, unobstructed views, and genuine solitude are part of the package here.

The pond is fairly deep in some areas - at least 15 feet - so shore fishing is recommended, since the banks are steep as well. Non-motorized watercraft are welcome, so throw the kayak or canoe on the roof and make a day of it. Just leave the motorized boats at home, and keep in mind that swimming isn't allowed - this one's for the anglers.

The open banks and obstacle-free surroundings make West Pond a natural fit for families. There's no better place to hand a kid a rod for the first time - minimal trees to tangle a back cast, plenty of room to roam, and enough open space to spread out a blanket and make an afternoon of it. Pack a lunch, bring the whole crew, and take your time out here.

A few things to keep in mind before you head out: there are no on-site restrooms, but Gilcrest and Platteville are just a short drive away. Please close all gates on your way through, pack out everything you bring in, and leave the property the way you found it. We take pride in this place and hope you will too. Come back anytime.

West Pond punches above it's weight for a 5-acre body of water. The depth and structure here create layered habitat that supports healthy and growing fish. The bass population was established through stocking several years back and has had time to mature in peace. The pond has never been drained, so the fish have never been diminished. 

The carp in the pond were naturally established, genuinely large, and as challenging to target as any species you'll find in a Colorado pond. 

Additional species are almost certainly present as well. With the depth, structure, and habitat diversity this pond offers, there is a good chance you'll encounter more than you expect. 

Reservation fees are due at the time of booking and are non-refundable. Outdoorsman fees will automatically process 48 hours prior to the adventure. It is the responsibility of the party organizer to ensure each attending guest is added to the adventure at least 48 hours prior, so they are charged accordingly.

For waterfowl, fishing, and other small game adventures, cancellations made 48 hours or more prior to the scheduled adventure will not be charged. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the adventure will be charged the full outdoorsman fee.

If there is a lapse in availability, please do not be discouraged to reach out to IO. All calendars are set and managed by landowners, and unavailability is set by them. However, IO is willing to reach out on your behalf, to check on available dates. Other reasons for unavailable dates include biologist recommended hunter/harvest quotas that landowners implement, as well as state season dates not being released.

You are not legally allowed to access the property, for any adventure, prior to your selected access day. If you try to access the property at all before your selected date(s), without prior approval from IO, you will be subject to trespassing and punishments therein.