Southwest Colorado
About Southwest Colorado
Southwest Colorado features the rugged San Juan Mountains and major rivers like the Animas River (Durango), the San Juan River, the Dolores River, and the Gunnison River (including the Black Canyon).
This is a land of dramatic geology and diverse fisheries. The Gunnison is a Gold Medal giant famous for its Salmonfly hatch. The Animas offers Gold Medal urban fishing, while the San Juan tailwater below Navajo Dam (just across the NM border, but influencing the region) is world-renowned. The Dolores offers challenging catch-and-release fishing for wary trout in a stunning canyon setting.
Fly Fishing Rivers in Southwest Colorado
Animas River - Animas Valley
Colorado
Animas River - Durango
Colorado
Dolores River - Below McPhee
Colorado
Hermosa Creek
Colorado
Lake Fork - Lake City
Colorado
North Fork Gunnison River - Paonia to Hotchkiss
Colorado
Piedra River - Above Navajo Reservoir
Colorado
San Miguel River - Headwaters
Colorado
San Miguel River - Lower Freestone
Colorado
Uncompahgre River - Below Ridgway
Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fly fishing rivers in the Southwest Colorado?
The Fly Fishing Lake Fork – Lake City is widely considered the crown jewel of the Southwest Colorado, but the area offers many excellent options. Be sure to explore the various tributaries and sections listed in our guide for diverse experiences.
When is the best time to fly fish in the Southwest Colorado?
While summer (June-September) offers the most consistent dry fly action, the Southwest Colorado has productive fishing year-round. Fall brings aggressive brown trout and excellent streamer fishing, while spring sees important hatches like Blue Winged Olives. Winter tailwater fisheries can also be excellent.
What fish species can I catch in the Southwest Colorado?
Anglers can primarily target Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout, with Cutthroat Trout and Brook Trout available in higher elevation streams. Some waters also hold Mountain Whitefish and other species.
