Fishing in Ouray Colorado

Fly Fishing

Fishing in Ouray is an angler's dream. With a great variety of streams, rivers, and lakes to choose from you won’t be disappointed.  Trout is abundant in the area and most anglers come for the rainbow, although there is also brook, brown, and cutthroat trout as well, perfect for any Fly Fisherman!

River Fishing

Cimarron River

Offers great angling opportunities for wild rainbows and browns. This often overlooked fishery can provide excellent dry fly-fishing throughout the year.

San Miguel River

The region's only un-dammed, free-flowing river is the San Miguel River. The fishing can range from outstanding to very poor depending on snow pack and runoff.  Rainbows and cutbows are the most common, with browns and cutthroats being less common.

Gunnison River

The Black Canyon is the most famous trout fishery in the region. The best time of year is late spring and early summer during the "Salmon Fly Hatch".

Uncompahgre River

For the avid fly-fisherman there is a fantastic one-mile section of catch-and-release only fishing in the Uncompahgre River below the dam at the Ridgway State Park. Only artificial flies and lures are allowed. Brown, Rainbow and Cutthroat trout await. Great fishing days can happen here at any time of the year.

Stream Fishing

Dallas Creek

This large feeder creek flows into Ridgway State Park Reservoir and is home to an excellent trout population, access is limited.

Canyon Creek

One of the few good streams in the Ouray area for fly fishers. Both brook and rainbow trout are found here.

Cow Creek

Upper Cow Creek offers excellent opportunities for those seeking solitude. The more difficult the access (bushwhacking required), the bigger the trout.

Lake Fishing

Blue Lakes

These three lakes sit at an elevation of approximately 11,000'with stunning views and some nice size trout as an added benefit. The three lakes range from 6 to 16 acres in size. Remember to go prepared for all types of conditions.

East Dallas Lake

This lake is located 11 miles from Ridgway on East Dallas Divide Road at the Willow Swamps Camp-ground. Regular stocking of this small lake can provide good family fishing opportunities

Download the Ouray Fishing Guide, or pick one up at the Visitor Center in town.

Local Info & Guides

Ouray Chamber Resort Association
RIGS
Switzerland of America
San Juan Mountain Guides