LOWER SAN JUAN RIVER
Over 10,000 Fish Per Mile: Discover the Magic of the Lower San Juan River
The Tailwaters of the Lower San Juan River are renowned for offering some of the finest and most consistent trout fishing in the country. Thanks to the consistent flows and cool, nutrient-rich water released from Navajo Dam, the river creates an ideal habitat for trout to thrive year-round. The first 3.5 miles of the Catch & Release area are particularly legendary, boasting an astounding density of over 10,000 fish per mile.
The trout in these waters are predominantly rainbows and browns. These fish are not only abundant but also impressively sized, with an average length of 16–18 inches—a trophy in most other fisheries. Anglers here also have a genuine chance of hooking into fish exceeding 20 inches, with some trout growing well beyond that mark.
The fishing experience on the Lower San Juan is unlike any other. The river flows through a striking high-desert canyon landscape, with towering sandstone cliffs and sweeping desert vistas providing a dramatic backdrop for each cast. This setting contrasts sharply with the alpine streams of the Upper San Juan, offering a unique experience in both scenery and fishing style.
At Heads Up Fly Fishing, we offer both float trips and wade trips on the Lower San Juan, ensuring anglers have the best opportunity to access productive stretches of water. All trips are fly fishing only, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the art of presenting delicate dry flies, drifting nymph rigs, or stripping streamers to entice these world-class trout. Whether you’re drifting through the serene runs or wading into pocket water, the Lower San Juan promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Upper Section – Tailwaters
The Upper stretch of the Lower San Juan is where the magic begins. Fed by the cool, nutrient-rich releases of Navajo Dam, this section creates an ideal habitat for trout to thrive year-round. With over 10,000 fish per mile, anglers can expect incredible numbers of rainbow and brown trout averaging 16–18 inches, with real chances at fish 20+ inches.
Float or Wade, 1-2 Anglers
4 hrs $495
6 hrs $555
8 hrs $625
*Add a third angler (wade only) for $125
Middle Section – Canyon Water
As the river flows deeper into the high-desert canyon, anglers experience a blend of productive riffles, pocket water, and scenic sandstone walls towering overhead. This area offers a mix of consistent action and shots at larger trout — a perfect balance of beauty and opportunity.
Float or Wade, 1-2 Anglers
4 hrs $495
6 hrs $555
8 hrs $625
*Add a third angler (wade only) for $125
Lower Section
The lower stretch offers the most solitude, drifting through miles of stunning high-desert landscape. With fewer anglers and more untouched water, this section delivers a peaceful, immersive experience. Ideal for anglers looking to enjoy long, scenic floats with plenty of quality fish.
Float Only, 1–2 Anglers
$625
“They are highly rated for a reason!
I have only gone fly fishing about 4 ones and my wife 2 times and we went with a friend of hers who had never been. We had Matt as our guide right before we were to fly home. Matt was very patient, helpful and wanted to make sure we all caught fish and we did! It was a great river on private land and he took us to 3 places to make sure we were successful. I caught 3 smaller fish and my wife and her friend caught 2 very nice sized trout. Highly recommend this outfitters!”
Martyhuntsville
Book A Trip Today
Reserve your date on the water with one of our San Juan River fly fishing guides! Booking your trip is a breeze – simply use the form to ask questions or reserve your date, or call us directly at the number below. We appreciate your interest in fishing with us!
CALL: (970) 422-5422
Trip Details
Cancellation Policy
Fishing License
Fishing licenses are required for guided fishing trips in the state of Colorado. You can purchase your Colorado fishing license through the Colorado parks & Wildlife website.
If you are fishing the Lower San Juan River, you’ll need a New Mexico fishing license.
Click here to purchase New Mexico (NM) Fishing License
Official NM Game & Fish Online Licensing System
NM trips are subject to New Mexico sales tax.
Included:
- Private guided instruction
- Rod, reel, flies, leader, tippet
- Wet wading gear (included)
Not Included:
- Fishing licenses
- Lunch (available for purchase from curated menu)
- Waders (optional & can be rented)
Gratuities
Tips for our guides are not included in our trip rates. Our team works hard… and you’ll notice it for yourself! We appreciate your business.
Meeting Location
All of our Pagosa Springs fly fishing trips begin by meeting your guide for the day at Let It Fly. We encourage you to gear up there and arrive 15 minutes early.
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