Carter lake is located west of Berthoud, Colorado and managed by Larimer County Parks.
Dive Site Access
Boat access only. The nearest ramp is located on the south end of Carter Lake. Parking is available near boat ramp and campground area. All vessels will need to have mussel inspection from ANS or proof your vessel has not left Larimer county lakes. Multiple restroom, camping, picnic day use area, and trash disposal. Personal life rafts and inflatables must have multiple air chambers (see regulations link below for more information).
Features of the Dive Site
Saddle West lies in the western-most edge of the Saddle’s no-boating area. Thermoclines are common throughout the summer between 17-25 feet and later in the season, another theromocline 35-40 feet. Summer has seen depths over 50 feet in this area and temps in the summer in the low 50s.
Sights
Small mouth bass, walleye, trout, crawdads (crawfish). Fishing gear, random things that are dropped from vessels such as sunglasses, shoes, clothing, beer cans, and other trash. Sand burr collections can be found as well, usually in low spots. In the early spring, you can find green algae, fallen leaves from the previous season. June and July you may find fish eggs, fry or small offspring of small mouth bass and walleye. If you pick up any cans or trash, check the inside or underside for juvenile crawdads (crawfish) before removing from the water.
Diver Cautions
Boat: Wind and storms can come up quickly in the afternoons. Be prepared with more than one anchor (one sand, one rock) to be the most prepared. Be sure to anchor your boat properly, and keep a boat captain or first mate to watch topside in order of prevent drift into the no boat zone, and incurring a fine.
Water: Stay EAST of the no-boating zone to stay safe and within the regulations of Carter Lake. Bring a cutting tool and remain calm if you are caught in fishing line. Also, fishing gear that you pick up may hooks still attached, which can puncture fingers, dry suits and dry gloves.
What to Bring
Park pass, buoy, line, reel. Cutting tool. Anchor (two recommended). Life jackets for all on board. Topside spotter/someone who is able to move your boat in case of drift, Diver Down flag and an Alpha flag for your vessel. See general regulations for more information.
