San Miguel River Fly Fishing Report Near Telluride Colorado

The San Miguel River is a freestone gem that winds its way through southwestern Colorado. With its crystal-clear water, abundant pocket water, and endless access points, this river is a dream for dry fly enthusiasts.

Conditions Summary

rise beyond fly fihsing company in denver colorado a guide rating for a stream. Good is 5 trout. This rating is for 3 trout. So good or semi challenging fishing conditions.

San Miguel River Fly Fishing Report Near Telluride Colorado

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The San Miguel River is a winter angler’s delight, offering a tranquil setting with stunning canyon views and crystal-clear water. As the snow blankets the surrounding landscape, the river's calm flows make it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy solitude with their fly rod. Trout are concentrated in deeper pools, sipping on midges and Baetis nymphs during the day.

Dry fly action is minimal this time of year, but nymphing remains productive with small, natural patterns. Streamer enthusiasts will also find success working slow, deep runs for larger, more aggressive trout. Winter is all about layering up and slowing down—on your retrieves and your approach. The fish may not be as numerous, but the rewards are worth the patience.

Flow Rate: 50-80 CFS
Water Temperature: 38-42°F
Clarity: Crystal clear
Best Times: Late morning to early afternoon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (A scenic and quiet winter spot, but requires technical skills)

River Flow Chart

San Miguel River Hatch Chart (Winter)

Month	Primary Hatches	Effective Patterns
December	Midges	Zebra Midge (#20-24), Black Beauty (#20-24)
January	Midges	WD-40 (#20-22), Top Secret Midge (#20-22)
February	Midges, Baetis	Blue Wing Olive Emerger (#18-22), Parachute Adams (#18-22)

Top 3 Flies for the Week

Parachute Adams

Dry Fly: Parachute Adams (#18-22) – Rare but effective during midday midge hatches.
Nymph: Top Secret Midge (#20-22) – The go-to for targeting trout in deeper pools.
Streamer: Olive Woolly Bugger (#8-10) – Strip slowly through pools and undercut banks.

Tips Fly Fishing on the San Miguel River

Seasonal Tip

Winter on the San Miguel requires patience and precision. Focus on deep runs and pools where trout are conserving energy.

Dry Fly

Limited opportunities, but midday hatches may bring sporadic surface action. Use small, delicate patterns.

Nymphing

Double nymph rigs with midges and Baetis are the most productive. Adjust depth and weight frequently.

Streamer Fishing

Slow retrieves with smaller streamers can provoke larger trout. Olive and black patterns are most effective in clear water.

Access Points

Telluride Town Park

- Description: Convenient access right in Telluride, offering beautiful scenery and good riffles.
- Why Fish Here: Easy access with productive pools and riffles, great for dry fly and nymph fishing.
- Location: Telluride, CO. Google Maps Link
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fall Creek Road

- Description: A scenic and quiet stretch with access to runs and pocket water.
- Why Fish Here: Less crowded, with a good mix of water types; ideal for nymphing.
- Location: Off Highway 145, near Telluride, CO.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Down Valley Park

- Description: Scenic and less pressured, with easy access to deeper pools and calm runs.
- Why Fish Here: Great for nymphing, with active trout in slower pools and undercut banks.
- Location: Down Valley, CO.
- Locals' Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The San Miguel River has designated public fishing areas, but certain sections run through private property. Stick to public access points, and always carry a valid Colorado fishing license. Barbless hooks are recommended to protect the fish, and practicing catch-and-release helps maintain the river's wild trout population. Enjoy this beautiful stretch responsibly to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.

San Miguel River Fly Fishing Report Near Telluride Colorado