Uncompahgre River Fly Fishing Report Near Telluride

Uncompahgre River Fly Fishing Report

The Uncompahgre River below Ridgway Reservoir is strutting its tailwater stuff this October. Flows are stable, the water’s cool and clear, and the trout—both browns and rainbows—are happily feeding. The Pa-Co-Chu-Puk section, known for its big and picky trout, is prime for some technical fishing action. As the water temp hovers around 46°F, the trout are munching on midges, baetis, and the occasional leech. The river is a great place to fine-tune your nymphing skills, but don’t shy away from throwing a streamer or two if you're hunting for that trophy trout. With fewer crowds and gorgeous fall colors, it’s a perfect time to visit this tailwater gem.

Uncompahgre River Below Ridgway Reservoir Fishing Report – October 2024

October has brought perfect conditions to the Uncompahgre River below Ridgway Reservoir, with low flows and crisp, clear waters creating an ideal environment for fly fishing. This tailwater stretch, known for its trophy trout, is packed with hungry rainbows and browns actively feeding as they gear up for winter. Anglers should prepare for technical nymphing, but patience and precision will pay off.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 50-70 CFS
• Water Temperature: 42-50°F
• Clarity: Clear
• Best Times: Late morning to mid-afternoon

Source Colorado Division of Natural Resources River Flow Station

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue-Winged Olive (#18-22) – Ideal for afternoon surface activity, especially during cloud cover.
• Nymph: Caddis Larva (#16-18) – Perfect for consistent subsurface action, particularly in riffles and deeper pools.
• Streamer: Small Leech Pattern (#8-10) – Effective in deeper sections; retrieve slowly near structure.

Uncompahgre River Hatch Chart

Tips for Fly Fishing on the Uncompahgre

Seasonal Tip
October’s cool temps mean fish are slowing down, so precise presentations are essential. Go with smaller flies and light tippet for the best results.

Dry Fly
Blue-Winged Olives are a primary surface option on overcast afternoons. Target calmer sections with small BWO patterns when you see trout rising.

Nymphing
A caddis larva, paired with a small midge or baetis nymph as a dropper, is your best bet for nymphing. Use enough weight to maintain a slow drift close to the bottom, focusing on riffles and seams.

Streamer Fishing
For anglers targeting big browns, leeches and smaller streamers are a great choice. Slowly retrieve in deeper pools and near banks for maximum success.

Access Points

Pa-Co-Chu-Puk

• Description: Main tailwater section with easy access from Ridgway State Park.
• Why Fish Here: Known for larger trout and reliable nymphing conditions in the clear, controlled flows.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Montrose Town Run

• Description: A town stretch with healthy populations of browns and rainbows.
• Why Fish Here: Offers diverse fishing opportunities with riffles, pools, and eddies.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Billy Creek SWA

• Description: Scenic access with a mix of deeper runs and accessible riffles.
• Why Fish Here: Great for anglers looking for fewer crowds and consistent fishing conditions.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

The Uncompahgre is managed as a tailwater with strict catch-and-release regulations below Ridgway Reservoir, especially to protect trophy-size trout. Stay mindful of property boundaries along the river and use designated access points at Pa-Co-Chu-Puk, Montrose, and Billy Creek State Wildlife Area for safe and legal fishing.