August 05, 2026
Colorado’s rivers and lakes make it a popular destination for fishing all summer long. Whether you are casting from shore or a boat, a few simple precautions can help keep your day on the water accident free.
Risks of fishing in the mountains
Mountain waters can be colder and less predictable than they look, and weather can change quickly at elevation. Beyond the water itself, fishing also comes with a more common risk: fish hooks. Even experienced anglers can end up with a hook caught in their skin.
How to reduce your risk
- Always wear a life jacket on a boat. Even if the water looks calm, conditions on Colorado’s mountain lakes and rivers can change fast, and cold water is more dangerous than it seems.
- Handle hooks and lines carefully. Take your time when casting or removing tangled lines, especially around other people.
- Watch the weather. Storms in the mountains can build quickly, so keep an eye on the sky and head in if the conditions start to change.
When you should seek medical care
If a fish hook becomes embedded in your skin, do not try to remove it yourself. Most fishing hooks have a barb, which is designed to grip and hold. That same design makes the hook very difficult and painful to remove on your own and pulling on it can cause more damage to the skin and tissue underneath.
Seek medical care if:
- A hook is embedded in your skin
- You notice increasing pain or swelling/redness
Fishing is a great way to enjoy Colorado's outdoors, and a few simple safety precautions can help keep your day on the water worry-free. If you experience a fish hook injury or another minor accident, Denver Health's Winter Park Medical Center is here to provide prompt, expert care so you can get back to doing what you love.
