From deep canyon pools and gently braided runs, to high country lakes and magnificent reservoirs, Montrose County offers anglers of all ages and ability levels a chance to participate in some of Colorado’s finest angling opportunities.

Fly Fishermen, Spin Casters and bait fishermen alike, all have locations in which they can enjoy making some casts to the regions diverse selection of trout.  Rainbow, Brown, Cutthroat and Brook Trout, as well as the occasional Konkanee Salomon, can all be found within a short drive from Montrose.  Throughout the summer, excellent access to the high country offers anglers unparalleled beauty and incredible insect hatches.  Eager fish, crashing the waters surface are sure to keep your attention.

So whether you’re looking for a fun and relaxing place to take the family or you’re in search of remote and productive trout waters, the region has something for everyone. 
                                                                                                                                                                              Guided fly fishing trip - RIGS Fly Shop
  
To help determine which location would be best for you and your group, here are a few suggestions of some of the Counties better options for wetting a line!


Uncompahgre River
Excellent fishing opportunities exist on the Uncompahgre River right in the town of Montrose.  Public access is plentiful and year-round river fishing water is available. In addition, the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk & Dallas Creek areas within Ridgway State Park offer classic tailwater river fishing, small creeks and stocked ponds the whole family can enjoy.  *Access here excellent for all ability levels, including disabilities.




Uncompahgre River Rainbow Trout - RIGS Fly Shop

Ridgway Reservoir
Dutch Charlie Area
Enjoy great shoreline fishing especially on the south shore of the cove where it opens out into the main body of the reservoir.  It’s close to picnicking sites, a playground and a modern, universally accessible fishing pier. 

Dallas Creek Day Use Area
Highlights include a long shoreline for river or reservoir fishing with convenient drive-up areas and parking spaces.  The best fishing is often found where the Uncompahgre River empties into the main body of the reservoir.  Kokanee salmon are here during their autumn run.

Cimarron River & Silver Jack Reservoir   
The Cimarron River offers great angling opportunities for Cutthroat, Rainbow and Brook Trout. This often overlooked fishery can provide excellent dry fly-fishing throughout the year. A good piece of tail-water angling lies just below Silver Jack Reservoir. The Forks of the Cimarron River offer incredibly scenic fishing in the Big Blue Wilderness, while easy hike access to several scenic high alpine lakes is excellent.

Gunnison River (Gunnison Gorge & Black Canyon National Park)
One of Colorado’s premier angling destinations, the Gunnison River through the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area and Black Canyon National Park offer visitors a chance to see remote sections of prime fishing!  Although a majority of the access in these areas can be challenging and, well marked access points will provide Gold Medal angling opportunities for Rainbow and Brown trout in spectacular settings.  

Don’t forget to contact the local fishing shop to receive the most up to date information on conditions, locations, licenses and supplies. 

Content and photos provided by Tim Patterson, owner of RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service

For more information contact the Colorado Division of Wildlife at (970) 252-6000 or any of the local fishing shops and guide services.

Cimarron Creek                                                  Gunnison River Expeditions                            RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service
317 E. Main Street                                             14494 F Road                                                         565 Sherman Street
Montrose, CO      81401                                    Delta, CO  81416                                                    Ridgway, CO  81432
(970) 249-0408                                                 (970) 874-8184                                                    (970) 626-4460
www.cimarroncreek.com                               www.gunnisonriveroutfitters.com              www.fishrigs.com