Last stocked
March 20, 2026
Plants on record
1
Species recorded
0
Elevation
5,604 ft
Access and facts
- Nearest town
- Louisville
- Shore access
- Yes
Harper Lake in Louisville sits inside a wildlife sanctuary with a one mile gravel loop trail around the shore. Shore fishing is popular, CPW stocks it annually with 8 to 12 inch trout. Motorless boats (canoes, kayaks, paddleboats) are allowed with a permit from May 1 through first ice.
Sources: access , shore_notes , shore_notes , nearest_town , fishing_notes , fishing_notes , watch_outs , angler_notes
How Harper Lake is stocked
Waneka Lake (2.9 mi), Ketner Lake (7.4 mi), Standley Lake (8.3 mi), and Webster Lake (10.6 mi) were stocked more recently.
Fishing Harper Lake
Harper Lake is a pristine fishing destination in Louisville, Colorado, frequented by anglers who want a convenient location right in town and families teaching children to fish. The lake is stocked annually and holds rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. It is common to catch 8-12 inch trout, with the best action from May to October. Fishing is productive and accessible from several points along the shoreline.
Sources: coloradolakes.org , uncovercolorado.com
What to watch for
There is no shade along the trail, so midday summer visits to Harper Lake can be hot. Since the lake serves as part of the city water supply, swimming, wading, and any bodily contact with the water is strictly prohibited. Dogs are also not permitted anywhere around the lake.
What anglers say
According to regulars, Harper Lake is one of those places that never disappoints.
Stocking history
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg. length | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 20, 2026 | – | – | – | report |
Species stocked here
No species recorded here yet.