Explore The Best Places for Fly Fishing in Durango
From the local hot spots to hidden gems
Casting off into the clear blue waters around Durango is a favorite pastime of locals and visitors alike. The best places for fly fishing in Durango include many of the region's rivers and creeks. Anglers looking for opportunities to make a great catch will find many fly fishing options in Southwest Colorado. Here are some of the best places for fly fishing in Durango, from the local hot spots to hidden gems.
Williams Creek Resevoir
Williams Creek, just north of Pagosa Springs, is a hidden gem of a fly fishing destination near Durango. These waters are a tributary of the Piedra River and are both easy to access and a great place to escape the crowds. Williams Creek is divided into 2 sections. The upper section is great for an overnight expedition, while the lower section below the Williams Reservoir is perfect for a day trip and has an abundance of fish. You'll find brown and rainbow trout in these rushing waters.
Animas River
The Animas River is known for its Gold Medal Waters designation and trophy trout fishing. The Animas River runs through the heart of Durango and you can access the waters for fly fishing from multiple points. You can find river access from the foot and bike trails running alongside the river. Other access points include the 9th & 32nd Street parks and the fish hatchery.
Animas River
Vallecito Creek
Vallecito Creek is another hidden gem of a fishing spot. These crystal-clear waters are teeming with trout and the perfect place for casting off in solitude. You'll find almost every kind of trout in Vallecito Creek, including rainbows, brook trout, and cutthroat. Most fish are 8 to 12 inches, but you might get lucky and find fish up to 16-inches in deeper pools. You can access the waters off of the Vallecito Creek Trail in the San Juan National Forest.
Florida River
The Florida River is known for offering anglers breathtaking scenery, great fishing, and a peaceful experience. This river is a tributary of the Animas River and offers opportunities to reel in rainbows, brook trout, and browns. You can access this less-known fishing spot from the Transfer Park campground, which is 1 mile past the Florida campground in the San Juan National Forest.
San Juan River
Just an hour outside Durango, the San Juan River is considered one of the most exciting trout waters in Durango. You'll need a New Mexico fishing license to cast off in these waters, but it's well worth it. The cold waters of the San Juan River are perfect conditions for all kinds of trout, including large rainbows. You'll have no trouble finding fish here. This is a popular fishing spot, especially on weekends, so you might have the best luck during the week.
Fly Fishing in Durango
Anglers of all skill levels will love casting off in the waters around Durango. Check out guided fly fishing tours with skilled pros from Duranglers for the ultimate Durango fly fishing experience. Find their fly shop and learn more about tour opportunities at their location at 923 Main Avenue in downtown Durango.
Duranglers
Heads Up Flyfishing
Heads Up Flyfishing offers one-of-a-kind fishing experiences for its clients. Their experienced guides accommodate float or wade fisherman, from novice to seasoned anglers, 365 days of the year. From beautiful locations, feisty fish, sharing time with friends and family, and enjoying a delicious streamside meal, a trip with Heads Up Flyfishing is a truly memorable experience.
Heads Up FlyfishingGrab your gear and get ready to cast off! Durango's rushing rivers and bubbling creeks offer pristine waters endless opportunities to find today's fresh catch. Learn more about outdoor activities to enjoy in Southwest Colorado, from whitewater rafting to ziplining, and have the adventure of a lifetime in Durango.
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