Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

San Juan River - Archuleta - New Mexico

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 Hatch Afternoon 18 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
BWO Hatch Midday to Afternoon 18 - 22 Pheasant Tail, Blue Dun
February Midge Hatch Afternoon 6 - 22 Brassie, Disco Midge
BWO Hatch Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Pheasant Tail, Blue Dun
March Midge Hatch Midday to Afternoon 18 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Black Beauty
BWO Hatch Midday to Afternoon 18 - 24 WD-40, Olive RS2
April Midge Hatch Afternoon 18 - 26 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
BWO Hatch Midday 14 - 24 BWO Emerger, Pheasant Tail
May Caddis Hatch Evening 14 - 16 Pupae and Larvae, Elk Hair Caddis
BWO Hatch Midday 18 - 24 Olive RS2, WD-40
June PMD Hatch Afternoon 14 - 16 PMD Emerger, PMD Dry Fly
Caddis Hatch Evening 14 - 16 Green Rock Worm, Elk Hair Caddis
July Trico Hatch Morning 22 - 24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Caddis Hatch Evening 14 - 16 Elk Hair Caddis, Green Rock Worm
August Trico Hatch Morning 22 - 24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Hopper Hatch Midday 8 - 12 Dave's Hopper, Parachute Hopper
September Trico Hatch Morning 20 - 24 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Hopper Hatch Midday 8 - 12 Dave's Hopper, Madam X
October BWO Hatch Midday 18 - 24 Pheasant Tail, BWO Dun
Midge Hatch Afternoon 18 - 26 Black Beauty, Blood Midge
November BWO Hatch Midday to Late Afternoon 18 - 22 BWO Emerger, Pheasant Tail
Midge Hatch Midday 24 - 26 Foam Wing Midge, Black Beauty
December Midge Hatch Afternoon 18 - 26 Brassie, Zebra Midge
BWO Hatch Midday 18 - 22 Pheasant Tail, BWO Dun

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

If you’re a fan of fly fishing, the San Juan River in Archuleta provides some of the best spots.

  • Quality Waters: This is the first 4.5 miles below the Navajo Dam. Here, you will find an enormous number of fish, making it an ideal spot for fly fishing.
  • Lower Flats: Located directly below Quality Waters, its wide and shallow structure makes it perfect for wading and fly fishing.
  • Baetis Bend: A paradise for beginners, with ample slow-moving waters and tactical challenges.
  • Texas Hole: Known for its deep pools and steady currents. This spot holds a good population of rainbow and brown trout.
  • Upper Flats: Offers expansive scenery combined with diverse water- ideal for those who prefer solitary, peaceful fishing.
  • Kidney Pool: Noted for its relatively easy wading and varied currents, Kidney Pool is perfect for novice or experienced fly fishermen alike.

Best Access Points

San Juan River in Archuleta is renowned for its excellent fly fishing spots. Several access points offer a wide variety of fishing environments for both novice and expert anglers.
  • Texas Hole: Known as the river’s most popular spot, Texas Hole is a deep and calm area teeming with large fish.
  • Upper Flats: This spot is ideal for wading and offers shallow and slow water perfect for dry fly fishing.
  • Munoz Meadows: This area is another popular wading angler spot, known for its vibrant aquatic insect life.
  • Lower Flats: This broad, open area offers trout-rich waters. It’s an excellent place to fish during high water periods.
  • Braids: This area has many small channels and islands that offer an enjoyable challenge for anglers.
  • Death Row: This area is ideal for boat fishing, known for its aggressive currents and large rainbow trout.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout – Rainbow Trout are the prima donna fish of the San Juan River. They are known for their high strength and feisty nature, making them an exciting challenge for fly fishermen.
  • Brown Trout – Second to Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout are another native species to the San Juan River. They are stealthy and elusive which makes them a rewarding catch for any fisherman.
  • Brook Trout – Brook Trout are not a native species to the river but have been introduced and have thrived. They are smaller in size, but are known for their distinct markings.
  • White Sucker – These fish are abundant in the San Juan River. Although not a conventional staple within fly fishing, they can be a fun challenge due to their strong fights.
  • Carp – Carp fishing has grown increasingly popular in recent years due to their abundance and the difficulty in catching them on a fly rod.
  • Bluehead Chub – Bluehead Chubs are smaller fish native to the river, they are not an easy catch but are appreciated by anglers for their unique appearance.
  • Fathead Minnow – Though tiny, they are a common prey species for larger fish in the river, hence become an interesting target for fly-fishing.
  • Flathead Chub – Similar to the Bluehead Chub, the Flathead Chub is a native species to the San Juan River but are rarer and therefore more of an exciting catch.

About The River

If you’re a fan of stunning natural landscapes and a rich history, look no further than the San Juan River in Archuleta County. Originating in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, the river serves as a captivating symbol of the county’s lively past.

Often called the ‘lifeline’ of the American Southwest, this gorgeous river has its unique role in shaping the history of Archuleta and its surroundings. With a length of about 385 miles, it flows through a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and diverse ecosystems.

  • The fertile riverbanks have been the cradle of ancient Pueblo civilizations and later provided livelihood to Spanish settlers.
  • Through centuries, the San Juan River generously supported farming, fishing, and tourism, playing a pivotal role in the Archuleta economy.
  • Spectacular leisure activities like floating, fly fishing and canyon exploring keep attracting visitors worldwide.

Cherished for its historical and ecological value, the San Juan River carries timeless tales of Archuleta’s unique heritage.

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