Animas River Fly Fishing Report Near Durango

The Animas River near Durango is showing off its late-fall charm, with flows around 150-200 CFS, providing ideal conditions for wading and targeting deeper runs. Water clarity is high, so anglers have excellent visibility for spotting trout, but stealth is a must. As temperatures cool, midday hatches of midges and Blue Wing Olives keep the trout active, with browns and rainbows feeding consistently in slower pools and along deeper seams. This stretch of the Animas offers a mix of wild and stocked trout, adding a unique dynamic to the fishing experience.

For anglers who love a challenge, the Animas delivers in November. Nymphing is the most productive technique, but a well-timed Blue Wing Olive dry fly can yield success during the warmer midday hours. Streamer fishing can also be rewarding, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when larger trout are more likely to chase.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 150-200 CFS
• Water Temperature: 40-45°F
• Clarity: Clear to slightly tinted
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon
• Current Conditions Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great for anglers who enjoy varied fishing techniques and a mix of wild and stocked trout, with strong nymphing and streamer action.

River Flow Chart

Source

Animas River Hatch Chart (Near Durango)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue Wing Olive (#18-22) – Ideal for midday hatches; effective in calmer water.
• Nymph: Black Beauty (#20-24) – Consistent producer in riffles and slower runs.
• Streamer: Olive Sculpzilla (#8-10) – Excellent for early morning and late afternoon, enticing larger trout from deep pockets.

Tips Fly Fishing on the Animas River

Seasonal Tip
Focus on warmer parts of the day for increased trout activity, particularly around midday. Approach clear water with caution, as fish are more likely to spook easily.

Dry Fly
Midday Blue Wing Olive hatches provide good opportunities for dry fly enthusiasts. Cast near the edges of slow-moving pools where trout rise cautiously.

Nymphing
Nymphing with a Black Beauty or Zebra Midge can yield good results, particularly in riffles and deeper pools. Use light tippet to present your flies naturally in the clearer water.

Streamer Fishing
Early morning and late afternoon are best for streamer fishing. A slow retrieve with an Olive Sculpzilla or small Woolly Bugger works well in deeper sections and near structure.

Access Points

Santa Rita Park

• • Description: Easy access with deeper pools and runs.
  • Why Fish Here: Close to Durango and known for good trout activity in deeper sections.
  • Location: Near downtown Durango, CO. Google Maps Link
  • Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High Bridge

• • Description: A scenic access with good riffles and slower pools.
  • Why Fish Here: Great for nymphing and streamer fishing, with varied water types and less pressure.
  • Location: North of Durango along Highway 550.
  • Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Dallabetta Park

• • Description: Offers easy access and a mix of deeper pools and pocket water.
  • Why Fish Here: Known for its calm pools and decent trout activity, great for dry fly and nymphing.
  • Location: Just outside Durango, CO.
  • Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Animas River near Durango has designated public access points but also runs through some private land. Respect private property by sticking to public access areas, and be mindful of local regulations, which include catch-and-release and barbless hooks in certain sections. Carry a valid Colorado fishing license, and practice responsible fishing to help preserve this valuable fishery.