Fly Fishing
Telluride is known for its outstanding fly fishing. From small streams and large rivers to lakes and reservoirs, you are sure to find the fishing you are looking for in and around Telluride. There are four easily accessible rivers, each with distinct characteristics. These include the San Miguel, Dolores, Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers.
San Miguel River – Due to its steep gradient, the San Miguel River is great for freestone pocket water fishing. It has friendly waters and is good for anglers of all abilities. There are six species of stoneflies and large population of caddisflies. The abundant hatch and great pockets make the San Miguel River placed along side the Roaring Fork and Arkansas as a top fly fishing river of the West. Dry fly fishing is great July through mid-September. Come Fall, you'll enjoy great nymphing
Dolores River – Known for its glassy runs, the Dolores River can be broken into two distinct sections. The Upper consists of the headwaters to McPhee Reservoir with the headwaters being just south of Telluride near Lizard Head Pass. You'll find a great variety of cutthroat and brook trout in this high elevation watershed. There is a lot of public access above 9,000 feet. There is an abundance of good hatches on the Upper Dolores, but what makes this section of river unique are the terrestrials including grasshoppers, beetles and ants. The Lower Dolores is the stretch below the McPhee Reservoir as it winds through low gradient terrain. This is very challenging dry fly water and is only good for advanced anglers. The insect hatches are phenomenal, but in low water years there aren't many fish.
Uncompahgre River – As a dam controlled river, the Uncompahgre River provides a fly fisherman with constant flows. Home to a healthy brown trout population, the Uncompahgre River is a good winter fishery due to its low elevation. (6,500 feet). In addition, you'll find a good Pale Morning Dun mayfly hatches in the summer.
Gunnison River – A short drive Telluride, brings you to the legendary Gunnison River. Known for its hugh browns and rainbows, the Gunnison is as scenic as it is a spectacular fishery. You can wade or float fish the Gunnison.
In addition to the four rivers described above, there are many lakes, ponds and alpine creeks worth fishing around Telluride. Also, don't leave your rod at home just because it is winter. Fly fishing can be a great winter activity. The Uncompahgre and San Miguel are particularly good in winter.
Hire an outfitter for instruction and equipment:
Further Adventures
650 Mountain Village Blvd
Telluride, Colorado
(970) 728-8954
Rigs Fly Shop and Guide Service
565 Sherman Street
Ridgway, CO 81432
(970) 626-4460
Telluride Outside
(800) 831-6230
121 W. Colorado Ave
Telluride, CO 81435
