Fishing

From deep canyon pools and gently braided runs, to high country lakes and magnificent reservoirs, Montrose 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 can discover places to enjoy the region's diverse selection of trout. Rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout, as well as the occasional kokanee salmon, 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 water's 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.

To help determine which location would be best for you and your group, here are a few of the area's better options for wetting a line!

 

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, 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 current information on conditions, locations, licenses, and supplies.

Uncompahgre River

Excellent fishing opportunities exist on the Uncompahgre River, right in the city of Montrose. Public access is plentiful and year-round river fishing water is available. In addition, the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk and Dallas Creek areas within Ridgway State Park offer classic tailwater river fishing, small creeks and stocked ponds the whole family can enjoy. 
 

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 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 Uncompahgre Wilderness (formerly the Big Blue Wilderness), while hiking access to several scenic high alpine lakes is excellent.
 

Fishing Guides & Shops
 

Montrose Anglers

309 East Main Street
Montrose, CO 81401
Ph: 970-249-0408
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RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service

565 Sherman Street
Ridgway, CO
Ph: 970-626-4460
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Ed's Fly Shop

432 East Main Street
Montrose, CO 81401
Ph: 970-372-2395
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Gunnison River Expeditions

14494 F Road
Delta, CO 81416
Ph: 970-874-8184
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Spotlight on Montrose