Fly Fishing Dolores River - Below McPhee

Fly Fishing Dolores River below McPhee Reservoir is one of the most storied and elusive tailwaters in Colorado, tucked into the red rock and piñon-juniper canyons of the southwest corner of the state. When water is released from McPhee Dam—primarily during high snowpack years in late spring—this stretch transforms into a short-lived but world-class trout fishery. Wild brown trout dominate, with occasional rainbows and native roundtail chub holding in the Dolores' deep runs, cutbanks, and slick tailouts. The river’s gin-clear water, limited flow windows, and canyon acoustics demand stealth, precise casting, and advanced presentation—making it a technical challenge for experienced anglers.

This reach fishes best when releases exceed 100 CFS, typically between late April and early July, though exact timing varies widely from year to year and may not happen at all in drought cycles. During these windows, prolific hatches of caddis, blue-winged olives, and stoneflies bring fish to the surface, especially in the riffle-drop sequences below the dam. Dry-dropper rigs are the preferred method, with thin-profile mayfly and caddis imitations fished delicately over slicks and into tight seams along the bank. When flows exceed 300 CFS, deep nymphing with heavy anchor flies and subtle droppers becomes more effective in plunge pools and softer midriver currents.

Access is limited and contributes to the river’s mystique. The most consistent public access is near Bradfield Bridge, a few miles downstream of the dam, reached via Forest Road 504 out of Dolores, then south on Road S. There are several walk-in access points managed by the San Juan National Forest, though anglers should obey all posted signage—much of the land downstream is privately owned or seasonally restricted. Float fishing is rarely possible due to inconsistent flows and boulder-choked channels, so wade anglers must hike in and be prepared for long, remote days on foot. Cell service is minimal, and the area is remote—carry emergency supplies, water, and navigation tools.

Camping is available at Bradfield Bridge Campground, which provides basic amenities and walk-in access to some of the most productive runs when water is flowing. Wildlife sightings—including bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and elk—are common in this secluded, high-desert canyon.

Check our fly fishing Dolores River Below McPhee flow gauge and current CPW release forecast before planning a trip—timing is everything. When the stars align, and flows are right, the Dolores below McPhee offers one of the rarest and most rewarding tailwater fly fishing experiences in the West, defined by technical water, solitude, and the quiet thrill of finding trout in a canyon few ever get to fish.