Public fishing is available in a multitude of lakes and streams accessible from the Scenic Byway.  Fish species existing in these waters include: Native cutthroat trout, lake mackinaw, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout.  On the Flat Tops plateau, many lakes will not support fish. Wilderness lakes that do contain fish provide enjoyable fishing. This makes the effort in finding a fishable lake worthwhile.

The upper White River Valley boasts some of the finest fishing waters in Colorado.  Much of the best fishing is on private land, owned by people who invest in their stretch of the river to protect spawning beds and fish habitat.  If you want to fish these protected waters, you'll need permission, and you will have to pay something for the privilege. Be careful to read all posted signs. Good river fishing along the White River is available along the river in selected public access areas. 

Here is a map with good lakes shown with blue icons.  Zoom in using the controls below. Many of these lakes are located within the Flat Tops Wilderness. In some cases, a long hike is required to access high mountain lakes.