Public access is plentiful on the Yampa, however many stretches are private so please be considerate of this. Below Stagecoach Reservoir, the tailwater can be accessed by road during the summer. This area is closed for migrating elk through the winter and requires a couple mile hike in. Plan your days accordingling if you choose to make this hike, however this can be a good place to escape the crowds during the winter.

Through the town of Steamboat, public access can be found at Fletcher Park, Rotary Park, Emerald Park, Little Toots Park, Dr. Richard Weiss Park and Transit Center Park. A couple miles south of town on CR 14, the Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area offers anglers several miles of public water.