Guided Fly Fishing Trips in Durango, CO

Float & Wade Fishing Trips Throughout Southwest Colorado

World Class Fly Fishing in Durango, Colorado

Learn About Fishing The Rivers & Creeks of Southwest CO

Durango, Colorado, and the surrounding areas are known for the best fly fishing access and opportunities in the state. Located in the heart of Southwest Colorado, Durango is a central location for five major freestone rivers, The Dolores River, The Animas River, The Piedra River, The Los Pinos River, and The San Juan River; and dozens of other fishable creeks and streams.

The freestone rivers and creeks of the southwest offer some of the best dry fly fishing in the state throughout the spring, summer, and fall months. Seasonal variation in the river flows and water temperature allows for a great diversity of bug life, with the most prolific hatches occurring during the warmer summer months.

Spotted brook trout with orange, green, yellow, and pink color tones resting in the hand of an angler during a guided fly fishing trip in the creeks north of Durango, Colorado.

During the spring and fall in the Southwest, we are accustomed to fishing Blue Winged Olives (BWOs) and midge variations to fool even the pickiest of trout. Throughout the summer months, we have the opportunity to fish mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, and terrestrial insects as dry flies, providing a thrilling visual experience. In the winter, we often resort to nymphing or streamer fishing in the larger freestone or tailwater fisheries, but we never discount the chance at a mid-afternoon mid hatch.

One of the most unique aspects of fly fishing in Durango, Colorado, is the diversity in the terrain and climate, all within an hour’s drive from the heart of the city. As you head north into the mountains, you’ll discover limestone creeks and streams abundant with cutthroat and brook trout, eager for their next meal. As you head East, West, or South of town, you’ll drift into a sandstone desert-like climate with fierce rainbow and brown trout, many of whom rarely see the flies of anglers.

What to Expect

Included In The Trip

  • All Fly Fishing Equipment: Rod, Reel, Tackle.
  • You can rent Waders & Boots for $30 per person for wade trips (No blue jeans. Denim and snaps will create extra wear on the waders and weaken the fabric).
  • Lunch Included on Full Day Fishing Trips
  • Water is included on every trip
  • A cooler is available for personal refreshments and nutritional needs
  • Please contact Patrick with any special dietary requirements

What To Bring

  • Colorado Fishing License
  • A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses
  • Raingear – monsoonal weather in July and August.
  • Check the weather and dress accordingly. Summer air temperatures are 80-100F, but the water temperature is always cool.

Down Payment

  • A 50% Deposit Is Required At The Time Of Booking

Cancellations

  • Cancellations and requests to reschedule must be made at least a full week prior to the charter date to receive a full refund or date change
  • Cancellations due to bad weather are at the guide’s discretion and will receive a full refund or may be rescheduled
  • Cancellations that are made within 48 hours of the trip will be charged the full price of the trip

 

CO Pricing Info

Wade Fishing Trips

  • One Person $450 Per Day
  • Two People $500 Per Day
  • Three People $625 Per Day

Float Fishing Trips

  • One or Two People $525 Per Day
 

**Gratuity is not included in the price. Industry-standard is 20% of the trip cost.

Quick Take

Durango, Colorado, is a central hub for five major freestone rivers and dozens of fishable creeks and streams in the Southwest. Short list:

  • Animas River
  • Dolores River
  • Los Pinos River
  • Piedra River
  • San Juan River
  • Hermosa Creek
  • Cascade Creek

 

Southwest Colorado offers a diversity of fly-fishing opportunity.

We target:

  • Rainbow Trout
  • Brown Trout
  • Cutthroat Trout
  • Brook Trout
  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Northern Pike
  • Carp

The bugs that we fish in Durango will vary with the seasons. Using a nymph that represents any of the insects below will apply to all seasons.

Summer:

  • Mayflies, Sizes 10-18
  • Stoneflies, Sizes 8-14
  • Caddisflies, Sizes 12-18
  • Terrestrials, Sizes 8-18

Fall:

  • Mayflies, Sizes 16-20
  • Midges, Sizes 18-22

Winter:

  • Midges, Size 18-22

Spring:

  • Mayflies, Sizes 16-20
  • Midges, Sizes 18-22

 

Durango, Colorado, is situated in a location where it presents a great opportunity for all anglers, no matter the experience level.

The high mountain creeks provide a great opportunity for those who are agile and like to walk around, searching for the next hole around the bend (great for kids). Floating the San Juan River gives those with less mobility the opportunity to sit and enjoy the day, while still actively catching fish.

Regardless of where you land, you’ll leave satisfied with the unique southwestern fly fishing experience.

Real Time River Data

CO Fishing License

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    Testimonials

    "This was my second trip with Pat. I first met him a year ago, which was my first venture into Fly Fishing. On my first trip with Pat It was an amazing day. Prior to my trip he contacted me and we put together a plan for the next day. I was catching fish within 15 minutes of being in the water!"
    Gary W.
    I recently signed up for my first float fishing trip on the San Juan River. My guide Patrick Garland was very patient and a real confidence builder!!! I'm a beginner and almost gave up on fly fishing but Patrick provided me the tools to be successful. It was the most educational and enjoyable day on the water for me. Highly recommend Patrick as a guide!!!"
    Angela
    Patrick was so laid back and easy to talk to I felt right at home. As we waded into the spot, he coached me step by step and I was hooked up in no time. I ended up doing a half day float with Patrick in 2019, but this time my 9 year old son tagged along. I was nervous since he had never fly fished before. Patrick did a heck of a job coaching him through it all and put Hunter on his first fish early in the morning. We had such a blast, we are coming back again with the wife and kid.
    Efren L.

    Photo Gallery

    Take a Look At The Typical Day on The Water With Time Flies Angling