What to Expect on Your Trip

Booking a guided fly fishing trip with Durango Fly Fishing means you're in for a laid-back, fun, and professional day on the water. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned angler, our trips are designed to be both approachable and rewarding. This page will walk you through what’s included, what to bring, how your day will flow, and other important details to help you feel prepared for your adventure.

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Trip Timeline – A Typical Day on the Water

Once you book, you’ll either choose your preferred meet time online or we’ll work together over the phone to coordinate a start time that works best. Full-day trips typically meet on the river between 7:00–9:00 AM, while half-day trips can start any time between 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM, depending on your schedule and conditions.

Full-day trips include 8 hours on the water, with a 30-minute break for lunch — usually whenever we get hungry, typically around noon. Half-day trips include 4 hours on the water, and both options are designed to maximize your time fishing while keeping things comfortable and relaxed.

If you're floating the San Juan River, there's no hiking involved, and access to the boat is easy and stable, thanks to secure lean bars and a smooth launch process. If you're staying in Durango, expect a scenic one-hour drive to Navajo Dam, and we’ll provide clear meeting instructions ahead of time. After your trip, you’ll return to the original meeting point, with about an hour's drive back from the river.

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Meeting Locations & Travel Info

Most float trips launch from Navajo Dam, New Mexico — a hidden gem tucked into the high desert. The drive from Durango to the San Juan River offers stunning views of open mesas, canyons, and classic Southwest landscapes. While the weather is generally warm and dry in spring through fall, it’s always best to check the forecast and prepare for sudden changes, including rain or wind.

We’ll personally call you after your booking to confirm the exact meeting location and time, so there’s no guesswork involved.

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Gear & Rentals

We provide all the essential gear for your trip, including a fly rod and reel, terminal tackle (flies, leader, tippet, etc.), and refreshments for the day. Full-day trips include a riverside lunch, and transportation is available upon request.

Please bring your own waders and boots, as we do not provide these items. If you need to rent gear, Duranglers in Durango and Float N Fish near Navajo Dam both offer reliable rental options. We’re happy to help guide you based on where you’ll be staying — many guests choose to stay either in Durango or near the San Juan River.

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What to Bring

Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need to bring:

• A valid fishing license for the day

• A hat, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen

• A light jacket or rain gear (especially in spring and summer)

• Waders and boots

• Any personal items you’d like to have for comfort or convenience

• Gratuity for your guide, which is always appreciated

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Weather & Seasonal Tips

Expect hot, dry weather in summer and cold mornings in winter, with potential for wind or rain throughout the year — especially during our monsoon season, which typically runs from July through early September. Layering is key for comfort, and we always recommend bringing rain gear just in case. Spring and fall can bring variable conditions, but they’re also some of the most rewarding times to fish.

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Durango Fly Fishing Cancellation Policy

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking, payable via credit card, cash, or check. If you cancel more than 15 days before your trip, your deposit will be refunded, minus a $20 cancellation fee. Cancellations made between 14 days and 48 hours prior to the trip result in a forfeited deposit. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the trip, or no-shows, forfeit the deposit and remaining trip balance.

Trips will proceed regardless of weather or water conditions, unless deemed unsafe. In such cases, Durango Fly Fishing reserves the right to cancel. If your trip is canceled due to dangerous conditions, you’ll have the option to reschedule or receive a refund minus a $20 cancellation fee.

Trip prices do not include gratuity, fishing licenses, or rental waders/boots.

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FAQs

Do I need experience to book a trip?
No experience necessary! We welcome beginners and seasoned anglers alike and tailor each trip to your skill level.

Can kids come on guided trips?
Absolutely — kids 8 and older are welcome to join. If you have questions or special considerations, just give us a call.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
We ask about any dietary needs ahead of time and will make sure your lunch accommodates them.

Can we keep the fish?
We practice catch and release on all our trips to protect the fishery. However, in designated areas where keeping fish is legal, we may allow guests to keep a limited number of fish, provided it's done ethically and in accordance with local regulations.

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Client Feedback

“Beautiful time fishing on the San Juan! We typically do all the heavy lifting ourselves and enjoyed floating in luxury, with a full-service experience. Grateful for Tom's seasoned knowledge on the river, expert rigs, tech tips, and great conversation. 10/10 would recommend.”