Anglers consider Cottonwood Lake a great fishing destination because you can catch large amounts of fish here. The ample access points make it easy to fish the lake. Families, especially those with children, enjoy fishing from the docks. The lake is kept stocked with trout (rainbow, brown, cutthroat, cutbow). The most common trout species in the lake are rainbow and cutbow.
You can fish from the shore or by boat or kayak. There is a boat launch ramp near the eastern shore with public parking and a kiosk. There are also picnic spots around the lake to enjoy during the day and camping facilities at Cottonwood Lake Campground for an overnight stay. The Lake is open for ice fishing during winter.
The nearest town is Buena Vista, only a 20-minute drive away. Head west on Highway 306, following the creek for about 6 miles to access the lake. Turn left on Highway 344, cross the bridge, and follow the road for another 3 miles.
