THE ANIMAS RIVER

The mighty Animas River runs directly through the City of Durango and is our home water. Located only 2 blocks from the fly shop, we spend a great deal of time on this river system. We are proud to offer a 4-mile section of Gold Metal Water designated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for quality fishing conditions.

Some locals call it “the animal” due to the challenges of wading and putting fish in the net. As a freestone river, it is consistently changing throughout the year. The clarity, temperature and water levels fluctuate, measured in cubic feet per second or cfs with the seasons. These unique aspects of a freestone make it both a difficult and rewarding fishery.

Rainbow and Brown Trout call the lower river home while Cutthroat and Brook Trout can be found in the upper reaches. Trout ranging in size from 12” to 18” are common but fish 20” to 25” + are frequently caught and released. The former Colorado State Record Brown Trout was recorded weighing in at 23 lbs in the 1960s.

We offer float trips depending on the time of year, but mainly keep to wading. We can accommodate half and full days. Let us guide and instruct you on this challenging river and create a memory that will last a lifetime.