Juniata Reservoir Changes: What Grand Junction Anglers Need to Know

Western Colorado is loaded with great places to fish. If you have been meaning to visit Juniata Reservoir near Grand Junction, now is the time.

Sadly, one of Mesa County’s favorite reservoirs is leaking. Drawdown is required before Juniata can be emptied and repaired. This means that for most of the spring and summer, anglers can fish without a bag or tackle restriction. Keep scrolling for more ‘dream come true’ fishing info.

Get our free mobile app

What Triggered the Modernization Project?

Read More: This Colorado Reservoir Hides an Underwater Ghost Town

Thankfully, Western Colorado is checking our reservoirs carefully and regularly. A routine inspection of Juniata Reservoir revealed a leak in the dam’s outlet pipe. Grand Junction does not mess around when it comes to the Kannah Creek Watershed, as it is the city’s primary, critical water source. Officials have decided that the safest and most effective way to access and rebuild the structure is to follow state dam safety guidance. This means Juniata will be empty for most of 2027.

Project Timeline & What Refilling Means

By the fall of 2026, water inflow to Juniata Reservoir will be shut off. It is expected that the reservoir will be fully drained by the late summer/fall of 2027. Repairs should be finished before the end of 2027, and refilling can be scheduled for January of 2028. The refill will take months, so as the water returns, anglers should expect some shoreline changes instead of an instant rebound.

Expanded Fishing Access During Salvage

Read More: Why Anglers Say This Is Colorado’s Best Winter Lake

Before the drawdown, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will allow unlimited harvest and relaxed gear rules. This will allow most of the fish to be caught before the lake empties. You’ll still need a valid fishing license to participate. CPW plans to restock once refilled, preserving Juniata as a long-term local fishing spot.