There are many reasons why I love my career as a writer. It’s creative, it allows me to work from home, there’s no drama, every once in a while, I get to meet amazing people, and – my favorite of all things – I get to visit inspiring places. One of those places was Cheesman Lake in the village of Deckers, Colorado. One of my Europe companions was in town and we decided to go exploring. I knew the direction we would head and with no real destination, the sky was the limit.

Luckily, we discovered what is known as an angler’s paradise – at least from May to September. Cheesman Lake, also known as Cheesman Reservoir, is a very popular manmade 877-acre body of water that connects to the South Platte River.

What makes it an angler’s paradise? Well, for starters, there’s no boating of any kind allowed. All water sports are prohibited, which adds to the tranquil waters that fishermen enjoy. Sorry, swimmers, scuba divers, and campers: there’s nothing for you here either. Dogs are allowed as long as you keep them leashed and pick up their droppings.

One thing you should know is that the three-mile-long canyon leading you to Cheesman Lake is a heavily-fished area, strictly catch and release. Just in case you planned on making stops along the way to the lake. Oh, and don’t forget your fishing license. The last thing you want is a hefty citation for not being legal.

Not into fishing? No worries. There are ample opportunities for bird spotting, wildlife encounters, photography, hiking, and picnicking at the lake.

Common fish caught are rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, kokanee salmon, yellow perch and northern pike. Pike, however, are limited to one fish per day at 34 inches or longer. Also, keep in mind that with Cheesman Lake’s protected status, even fishing is limited to the Goose Creek Arm. If you’re not sure where that is, it’s pretty much from the entrance gate to the big boulders. You can always ask one of the regular anglers when you get there.

There’s no shade while fishing: don’t forget your hat, sunblock, cooler with snacks and water, maybe an umbrella, your fishing license, and your fishing rod. Above all else, be prepared to enjoy paradise!

For more information on Cheesman Lake visit https://www.denverwater.org/ recreation/cheesman-resevoir