Fly Fishing Uncompahgre River - Below Ridgway

Overview

The Uncompahgre below Ridgway Reservoir flows through Pa-Co-Chu-Puk in a tailwater channel of runs, deeper pools and sheltered seams. Brown and rainbow trout use the depth and cover around rock structure and willow banks. Clear water and small-insect presentations shape much of the fishing below the dam.

Tailwater Presentations

A small midge, baetis or caddis nymph can cover a slower pool or deeper run. Adjust depth and weight to the current at that lie, and keep the drift from pulling across several feeding lanes. A careful first cast matters when a fish is holding in clear, quieter water.

Blue-winged olives, caddis and pale morning duns offer surface patterns when fish are rising. A dry-dropper provides another approach to a short seam, with midges and attractor nymphs adding cold-season choices. Dam releases can change depth and current, so observe the chosen run before repeating a familiar presentation.

Access

Use the Fisherman’s parking area in Ridgway State Park’s Pa-Co-Chu-Puk recreation site and follow the river paths to the Uncompahgre. CPW identifies a river fishing pier beside the paved River Walk Trail; the nearby ponds are separate fishing destinations. A vehicle park pass is required. See CPW’s park information and park map.