With the advent of the fall season, angling opportunities abound in and around Pagosa Springs. Cooler fall temperatures, less crowded waters, and spectacular scenery, make Pagosa Country and ideal destination for fall fishing. The abundance of water and types of water in the vicinity will appeal to fishers of all skill and interest levels ranging from the beginner who is just looking to relax and pass the time, through the "advanced" trophy angler searching for an encounter with the fish of a lifetime.

The San Juan and Piedra River systems combine to offer some of the finest "undiscovered" trout stream fishing available. Hundreds of miles of easily accessible public water hold a variety of species including feisty and aggressive Brookies, acrobatic Rainbows, wary Browns and native Cutthroats. Some local "hot spots" to consider include the San Juan River through downtown Pagosa, the East and West forks of the San Juan, Fourmile Creek and Turkey Creek, the Piedra River
and its tributaries the Middle Fork and Williams Creek Forks.

The more adventurous anglers look for the secluded secret spot are advised to obtain a Forest Service map of the area or attempt to pry information from locals "in the know". As always, property rights must be respected. In Colorado it is considered an illegal trespass to wade through private property. It is your responsibility to obtain permission to fish through private land. Legal access to some choice stretches of private water can be obtained by enlisting the services of a guide. Inquire at any of the local sporting goods establishments to find out what services are available.

For those seeking trophy size Rainbows and lots of them, the "Quality Water" of the lower San Juan below Navajo Dam is the ticket. Ranked as one of the top three tailgate fisheries in the country, this stretch of river consistently yields fish measuring twenty inches and over. The crowds on the lower Sail Juan are as legendary are the fish, but fall and winter fishers will often find that they can have the river to themselves especially on weekdays. Very specific regulations apply to limits and tackle restrictions for each section of water and a New Mexico fishing license is required. This is highly technical fishing and if you are unfamiliar with this water, the assistance of an experienced guide is highly recommended.

Still water enthusiasts will be pleased to find that plenty of water is available for the pursuit. Excellent fishing can be found at nearby Echo Canyon Reservoir, Williams Creek. Reservoir, and Navajo Lake. Many, high country lakes hold fantastic populations of fish. Hiking to these areas can be extremely rewarding in terms of breathtaking scenery as well as angling success. Bear in mind that hiking in the high country involves some very real dangers. Advanced preparation and knowledge will minimize risk and make for an enjoyable outing. Again local outi'itt,.ers are ready, willing and able to offer their expertise and assistance in your endeavors.

One thing to consider as you enjoy the sport of fishing is that of catch and release. Heralded as the most important conservation concept of present-day sport fishing, and the one that is chiefly responsible for the great improvement in trout fishing in Northern America, the release of unharmed fish to reproduce and perhaps to fight another day, has become a widespread practice.

This concept is perhaps even more important today in light of the epidemic of "whirling disease" which has decimated Rainbow Trout populations throughout the American West. This is not to suggest that taking a few fish for the table is unacceptable, but by safely releasing all or part of our catch instead of fishing to our limit on every outing, we will be doing our part to save our fisheries for future generations.

Wherever your Pagosa Country angling adventures take you, here's wishing you good luck and be sure to come back soon.

Top of Page