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Year-Round Fishing

Colorado is home to miles of trout streams, so it should not be a surprise that many excellent fishing opportunities are located within a short distance from Ridgway. Whether you are a veteran or novice, a stay in charming Ridgway will allow you to experience great year-round fishing, as well as float fishing trips, walk and wade guided fly fishing trips and instructional clinics. 
RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Fishing
Photo credit: RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service
Cimarron High Country Fishing
Photo credit: RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service

Blue Ribbon, High Country Gold Medal Waters

Ridgway is centrally-located within one hour of six major trout streams and rivers, which boast clean waters, feisty fish, and draw out the fisherman in everyone all year long. There are secluded alpine lakes and streams full of stocked and native trout for the fisherman who likes an adventure and easily accessible sport waters along the Uncompahgre River corridor. The reservoir and catch-and-release waters in Ridgway State Park offer fishing opportunities for the whole family, including free fishing for kids during Huck Finn days in the summer. 


There are secluded alpine lakes and streams full of stocked and native trout for the fisherman who likes an adventure and easily accessible sport waters along the Uncompahgre River corridor.


Walk and Wade the Uncompahgre River in Ridgway State Park

Southern Colorado’s tailwater fishery below Ridgway Reservoir, at the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk entrance of the State Park, offers anglers an unparalleled fishing experience year-round. Extensive rehabilitation has resulted in prime habitat for Rainbow, Brown and Cutthroat trout and catch and release Blue Ribbon Waters revealing deep runs and large pools.

Enjoy a Fishing Day with The Family at The Ridgway Reservoir

This beautiful setting with a marina and numerous points of access make for a great fishing destination for the whole family. Stocked rainbow & native brown trout make up the game fish within the reservoir.

Remote Fishing Adventures

Brook and rainbow trout can also be found in some tributaries of the Uncompahgre River. Access to Dallas Creek, Canyon Creek or Upper Cow Creek is more limited, but the reward might very well be a bigger catch.

Fishing in surrounding alpine lakes may be the preferred choice for those seeking solitude and grand vistas. A few-mile hike will lead you to magnificent lakes and make for great fishing stories. In the Cimarrons, the waters of Silver Jack Reservoir are more accessible but also offer quality fishing in a serene setting.

A fishing license is required to fish from Colorado waterways. Information on licenses and special regulations may be found at cpw.state.co.us.

Fall & Winter Fishing

Visiting Ridgway during the fall and winter gives you access to great fishing with less pressure; leading to a more productive day. If you have never tried fishing during your winter vacation, we encourage you to give it a try. There’s nothing quite like having the whole river to yourself on a crisp, cloudless winter day.

Set aside some time to play in our beautiful waters; our local guides are always ready to show you their favorite secret falls and fishing holes and always have the best tips on water levels and hatches.