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 High Country 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.