Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

San Juan - Pagosa Springs - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Afternoon 22-26 Griffith’s Gnat, Fuzzball
Stoneflies All Day 10-14 Nymphs, Black Stonefly
February Midge Afternoon 22-26 Griffith’s Gnat, Blood Midge
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 Sparkle Dun, Quill Gordon
March Midge Afternoon 22-26 Griffith’s Gnat, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 Sparkle Dun, Quill Gordon
April Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymph
May Caddis Evening 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Olive Caddis Pupa
Stoneflies All Day 6-10 Chubby Chernobyl, Golden Stonefly
June Stoneflies All Day 6-10 Giant Black Stonefly, Salmonfly
Green Drakes Afternoon 10-14 Green Drake Dun, Sparkle Dun
July Green Drakes Afternoon 10-14 Green Drake Dun, Sparkle Dun
Yellow Sallies All Day 14-18 Yellow Sally Dry Fly, Beadhead Yellow Sally
August Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Terrestrials All Day 10-18 Ant Patterns, Hopper Patterns
September Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Blue Winged Olives Evening 18-22 Parachute Adams, RS2
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 Parachute Adams, RS2
Midges Afternoon 22-26 Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat
November Midges Afternoon 22-26 Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 Sparkle Dun, Quill Gordon
December Midge Afternoon 22-26 Griffith’s Gnat, Fuzzball
Stoneflies All Day 10-14 Nymphs, Black Stonefly

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The San Juan River in Pagosa Springs is renowned for its exceptional fly fishing opportunities. Here are some of the favored spots:
  • Quality Waters: This 3.75-mile stretch is a designated Special Trout Water with large Rainbow and Brown Trout.
  • Baetis Bend Park: Known for its boulder-filled runs and pools, this park is popular among experienced anglers.
  • River Point: Offers access to both easy and more challenging waters, making it suitable for all skill levels.
  • Two Rivers Crossing: Ideal for wade fishing, this spot boasts stunning surroundings.
  • San Juan Campground: Provides access to a slower-paced section of the river, perfect for beginners or relaxed fishing.
It’s crucial to note that some sections are catch-and-release only and have specific bait restrictions. Ensure you’re aware of the regulations to maintain the excellent fly fishing conditions.

Best Access Points

The San Juan river surrounding Pagosa Springs offers exceptional fly fishing opportunities. Some of the best access points include:

  • East Fork of San Juan: It provides an excellent scenic fly fishing spot with good access points. Easily reached from Highway 160.
  • Williams Creek Reservoir: Another amazing fly fishing spot providing good chances to catch cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout. Accessible from Piedra Road.
  • Piedra River: This is another excellent place for fly fishing, with good access and the potential to land rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
  • Village Pond: Situated within Pagosa Springs, this stocked pond provides easy and convenient access.
  • San Juan at Trujillo Road: Offering good wade fishing opportunities, this section of the river can be reached from Trujillo Road.
  • Navajo State Park: Located just south of Arboles, the area around the reservoir is home to some fine fishing spots.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: The San Juan River contains a high population of Rainbow Trout, making them a prime target for local fishermen.
  • Brook Trout: Brook Trout are less common in the San Juan River, but still targeted by fly fishermen in the area.
  • Brown Trout: Brown Trout are also present in the river and are a favorite among local fly fishermen.
  • Cutthroat Trout: The Colorado River Cutthroat Trout is a local favorite, thanks to its beautiful coloring and fight.
  • Northern Pike: These are also targeted by anglers, particularly in the lower sections of the river.
  • Whitefish: Mountain Whitefish can also be found in the San Juan River and are targeted by some fly fishers.
  • Common Carp: This fish is considered a trash fish by some, but is becoming increasingly popular to fly fish for due to their size and strength.
  • Channel Catfish: This bottom-dwelling species can be found in the slower sections of the San Juan River and provide a different challenge for fly anglers.

About The River

Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, San Juan and Pagosa Springs are two captivating and historically rich regions. San Juan, popularly known as the “Switzerland of America” because of its picturesque scenery, traces its roots back to the mining era of the late 1800s. The area took its name from the San Juan mountains and river which are in turn named for Saint John the Baptist.

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the delightful town of Pagosa Springs. Known for its therapeutic hot springs, the name Pagosa is believed to be a Ute Indian term for “healing waters”. Historically, soldiers, Native Americans, and settlers alike frequented these waters to soak away their ailments.

Today, these wonderful destinations offer a variety of activities, from hiking magnificent trails, to enjoying the phenomenal hot springs, to exploring the precious remnants of mining ghost towns.

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, San Juan and Pagosa Springs have something magical to offer everyone.

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