Fishing Near Durango, Colorado
A Guide to Local Waters
Discover a variety of prime fishing locations across rivers, creeks, and high country lakes in the Durango area.
Fishing Near Durango, CO
The Durango area in the San Juan Mountains offers premier public fly fishing opportunities near Durango and Silverton, featuring diverse waterways with distinct challenges and rewards. This guide highlights the Animas River, Hermosa Creek, and Lime Creek—each with its own unique character. From the downtown accessibility of the Animas River with its year-round trout action, to the intriguing new lineage of cutthroat trout in Hermosa Creek discovered after the 416 fire, and the effortless charm of Lime Creek, anglers will find abundant opportunities for memorable fly fishing adventures.
General Fishing
Information
Fishing in the Durango area offers diverse opportunities across various rivers, creeks, and high country lakes. Here’s an overview of essential information that applies across the region:
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Best Times of Year to Fish
The best times to fish depend on the specific waterway. For example, high country creeks and lakes are generally most productive from June through October—though exact timing may vary based on drainage and elevation. In Colorado, anglers aged 13 and older are required to have a valid fishing license. You can obtain your Colorado fishing license through CPW.
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Fishing Regulations & Permits
Regulations can vary between rivers and lakes, so it’s important to review local rules. Please refer to the official Colorado Fishing Brochure (PDF) for the most up-to-date guidelines and requirements.
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Local Fishing Conditions & Reports
Staying informed about current conditions is key to planning a successful trip. Check out our detailed fishing reports for each category:
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High Country Lakes – Fishing Report
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Creeks – Fishing Report
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Animas River – Fishing Report
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San Juan River – Fishing Report
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Ethical Fishing & Conservation
Responsible fishing is essential to preserve our local ecosystems. In Durango, water temperature plays a significant role in fish behavior. As conditions warm—when water temperatures approach around 63°F, consider “roping up” your efforts, and if temperatures climb into the 65–70°F range, it may be best to pause fishing for the day to protect the fish and ensure sustainable practices. Additionally, please be respectful of private property by always seeking permission when fishing near boundaries.
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Additional Opportunities
For more fishing opportunities and detailed information on other local waters, please visit the Southern Ute Fishing website, which features excellent resources and current water conditions in our region.
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This general guide is designed to give you a solid foundation before exploring our in-depth pages on each waterway. Enjoy your time on Durango’s beautiful waters and practice ethical angling for the benefit of all.
Rivers & lakes Near Durango
Located right in downtown Durango, the Animas River stands as an iconic fly fishing destination with exceptional year-round trout fishing. Known for its impressive populations of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, the river transforms with the seasons—boasting high flows in the spring, warm waters in the summer, and prime fishing conditions from fall to spring. Its easy accessibility makes it a top choice for both novice and experienced anglers looking for quality fishing near Durango.
Hermosa Creek
Nestled behind Purgatory, Hermosa Creek offers a unique fly fishing experience with its diverse environments and a special focus on cutthroat trout. Following the 416 fire, a new lineage of cutthroat trout was discovered in this creek, adding intrigue for local and visiting anglers. The upper meadow sections deliver pristine, pocket water settings, while the valley below—marked by a historic fish weir—features a mix of cutthroat, brown, and brook trout. Hermosa Creek is a must-visit spot for those seeking adventure and quality fishing near Durango and Silverton.
Cascade Creek
Just minutes from Purgatory and only 30 minutes from Durango, Cascade Creek is an outstanding fly fishing destination boasting abundant populations of brook trout and rainbow trout. With its easy highway access and a well-maintained trail that winds into the mountains, this creek offers endless fishing opportunities for both beginners and seasoned anglers. Whether you're casting along its banks or exploring further upstream, Cascade Creek delivers a perfect blend of convenience, natural beauty, and the thrill of fly fishing near Durango.
Lime Creek
Just a 40-minute drive from Durango, Lime Creek is a fly fishing gem renowned for its clear waters and diverse trout population, including cutthroats and brook trout. Eager fish quickly strike at dry flies along its meandering course, often accentuated by scenic waterfalls that add both beauty and challenge to your angling adventure. With easy access from the highway and options to hike in for a more secluded experience, Lime Creek offers the perfect blend of convenience and wilderness, making it a top spot for fishing near Durango.
Upper Animas River
Located above the town of Silverton, the Upper Animas River is a prime destination for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking a variety of trout, including rainbows, cutthroats, and brook trout. With easy access from Silverton, this stretch of water offers excellent angling opportunities, but it's important to review local regulations and property boundaries carefully since private lands are interspersed with public areas. Whether you're casting for trophy rainbows or eager brookies on dry flies, the Upper Animas River provides a dynamic and scenic fishing experience that draws anglers from across the region.
Dolores River
Lower Dolores River:
Located below McPhee Reservoir, the Lower Dolores River offers a scenic canyon setting with promising brown trout fishing. Although summer flows can be inconsistent and fish populations may fluctuate, this stretch delivers memorable fly fishing experiences. Its dramatic vistas and rugged beauty make it always worth the drive, providing anglers a chance to catch trophy browns in a naturally inspiring environment.
Upper Dolores River:
Flowing above Dolores and through the town of Rico on the way towards Telluride, the Upper Dolores River behaves more like a creek with excellent bug hatches and some impressive, well-sized fish. With ample public water available, it’s a favorite among local fly fishing enthusiasts—but remember to look for posted signs indicating private property boundaries. This dynamic waterway is another top destination for fly fishing near Durango and Silverton, delivering both challenge and charm to every angler.
Los Pinos (The Pine River)
Above Vallecito Reservoir, the Pine River unveils an endless stretch of angling adventure for those willing to put in the work. While the lower section below Vallecito is mostly private, the upper reaches reward dedicated anglers with a scenic 3-mile hike through a private easement at Granite Peaks Ranch. Once you emerge into the expansive Weminuche Wilderness, you're met with outstanding dry fly and streamer fishing opportunities in a river that seems to go on forever. This hidden gem offers a blend of rigorous hiking and unforgettable fishing near Durango for those seeking a true high country challenge.
Mineral Creek
South Mineral Creek is a hidden gem for fly fishing near Durango, offering quality brook trout fishing in its upper reaches where the water remains clear and inviting. As you follow the creek downstream, be aware that once it reaches the confluence with the main stem, historic mining runoff degrades the water quality, and the fishing essentially disappears. Anglers flock to the upper sections for the best brook trout action and to enjoy the abundant free dispersed camping opportunities. The area also serves as a gateway to trails leading to scenic destinations like Ice Lakes, Island Lake, and Clear Lake, making it a perfect blend of quality fishing and outdoor adventure in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.
Lakes Near Durango
A short drive from Durango, reservoirs such as Vallecito and Lemon offer year-round fishing opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Vallecito Reservoir, in particular, is renowned for its expansive waters and consistent angling action, while Lemon Reservoir mirrors its appeal with abundant fish species. For those seeking seasonal excitement, Lake Night Horse stands out as a premier destination to land big trout and kokanee salmon, providing dynamic fly fishing and spin fishing experiences that capture the spirit of fishing near Durango.
High- Country Lakes Near Durango
In the high country, lakes like Andrews Lake and Molas Lake provide exceptional fishing escapes away from the bustle of town. Andrews Lake is stocked with vibrant rainbow trout, creating a reliable fishing spot for those in search of action-packed angling adventures. Nearby, Little Molas Lake offers a unique mix of brook trout and cutthroat trout, best explored by float tube or kayak for an immersive outdoor experience. Just 25 minutes from Durango, Haviland Lake further enhances the region’s reputation for quality fishing with its excellent rainbow trout runs, making the high country lakes a must-visit for any angler in the San Juan Mountains.
