Durango Fly Fishing Report: San Juan River Below Navajo Dam – Flow Update & Smokey Skies
- Durango Fly Fishing
- Aug 4
- 3 min read

San Juan River (Below Navajo Dam)
As of 7:00 a.m. this morning, releases from Navajo Reservoir have been dropped from 1,500 cfs down to 1,050 cfs, and the transition is now complete.
With the flows now stabilizing, expect great fishing conditions, especially for nymphing and small streamer setups in the Quality Waters.
The reduced flows should allow for slightly warmer water temps over the next few days, which typically brings out more bug activity and makes the fish more responsive.
The higher flows we just had made for some good streamer fishing, and if you were out recently, you probably saw that window. Fishing should remain productive this week as things settle.
The Middle Mesa Fire, burning east of Navajo Reservoir, has been pushing heavy smoke into the San Juan River canyon in the mornings.
Animas River (Durango Area)
Please avoid fishing the Animas River during the day. While no official closure is currently in place, water temps have been climbing into the low 70s by mid-afternoon, which is dangerous for trout.
Despite seeing other anglers out in the heat of the day, we strongly recommend fishing only in the early morning hours, packing a thermometer, and handling fish minimally.
Warmer water holds less oxygen, making it stressful or even fatal for fish during the fight and release. Be mindful and help protect the fishery by adjusting your schedule.
High-Country Creeks & Tributaries
The small water up high is still flowing, but things are getting skinny and clear. Fish are spooky, and stealth is key.
Lighter tippet, small dry flies, and quiet approaches will go a long way right now in the creeks and pocket water above tree line.
Smoke Conditions
The Middle Mesa Fire, burning east of Navajo Reservoir, has been pushing heavy smoke into the San Juan River canyon in the mornings.
Visibility can be limited early, and the air quality has been noticeably poor during the first half of the day.
If you have any respiratory sensitivity, you might prefer afternoon trips, when the smoke tends to lift as the day warms up.
Final Notes
San Juan River flows are looking great for technical, productive fishing. The shift to 1,050 cfs should really dial things in for midges and small mayflies.
Do your part on the Animas — fish early, monitor temps, and give it a break once it starts to climb.
The creeks still offer a good escape, especially for small-water fans looking for a bit of high-country solitude.
Tuna scouting skinny water in the high country near Durango. Light rods, stealthy approaches, and clear creeks make for a peaceful change of pace. We’re still running float trips daily on the San Juan River below Navajo Dam, and the fishing has been excellent — clear flows, healthy trout, and great visibility. The lower river is shaping up nicely, with good action on hopper-dropper setups and streamers, especially in the afternoons. Wade trips have been productive, too — a great option for anglers who want to slow things down and work technical water on foot.
We also have morning wade trips available on the Animas River — just be sure to hit the water early while temperatures are still safe for the fish.
Questions or ready to book? Give us a call at 970‑501‑5355 or send us a message.
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