The Uncompahgre River, flowing through western Colorado, offers year-round fly fishing opportunities. Originating from the San Juan Mountains, it traverses towns like Ouray, Ridgway, and Montrose before joining the Gunnison River. The tailwater section below Ridgway Reservoir, known as Pa-Co-Chu-Puk or "Paco," is particularly renowned for its trophy trout and consistent fishing conditions.
The Uncompahgre River can be divided into several key sections:
- **Pa-Co-Chu-Puk (Paco):** Located within Ridgway State Park, this tailwater section below Ridgway Reservoir is famed for its large trout and year-round fishing.
- **Montrose Town Run:** Flowing through the city of Montrose, this stretch offers diverse fishing opportunities with riffles, pools, and eddies.
- **Billy Creek State Wildlife Area:** Situated downstream from Ridgway, this area provides scenic access with a mix of deeper runs and accessible riffles.
Anglers can expect to encounter several trout species in the Uncompahgre River:
- **Rainbow Trout:** Both stocked and wild populations thrive, especially in the tailwater sections.
- **Brown Trout:** Naturally reproducing browns are abundant, with some individuals exceeding 10 pounds.
- **Cutthroat Trout:** Snake River cutthroat trout are stocked annually, averaging 18 inches upon release.
Trout in the Uncompahgre River exhibit varied feeding behaviors throughout the year:
- **Winter:** Midges and small mayfly nymphs are primary food sources.
- **Spring:** Stonefly nymphs become active, and caddis hatches begin.
- **Summer:** Green Drakes and Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) provide excellent dry fly action.
- **Fall:** Leeches and midges dominate the trout's diet.
Effective techniques vary by season:
- **Nymphing:** Productive year-round, especially with midge and mayfly patterns.
- **Dry Fly Fishing:** Best during summer hatches of Green Drakes and PMDs.
- **Streamer Fishing:** Effective in deeper pools, particularly in fall when trout are aggressive.
Notable fishing locations include:
- **Pa-Co-Chu-Puk:** Known for large trout and reliable nymphing conditions.
- **Montrose Town Run:** Offers diverse fishing opportunities with riffles, pools, and eddies.
- **Billy Creek State Wildlife Area:** Great for anglers seeking fewer crowds and consistent fishing conditions.
Key access points along the Uncompahgre River include:
- **Pa-Co-Chu-Puk:** Located within Ridgway State Park, offering easy access and amenities.
- **Montrose Town Run:** Accessible through various city parks and public lands.
- **Billy Creek State Wildlife Area:** Provides parking and river access off Highway 550.
For optimal performance on the Uncompahgre River:
- **Rod:** 5 to 6 weight, 8’6” to 11’ fly rods.
- **Line:** Weight-forward floating fly lines.
- **Leader & Tippet:** 6x to 5x fluorocarbon for nymphing; monofilament for dry flies.
Anglers are encouraged to practice catch and release to maintain the river's healthy trout populations. Recent restoration projects have enhanced habitats and stabilized riverbanks, contributing to the river's sustainability.
While the Uncompahgre River offers accessible fishing, anglers should be cautious of sudden flow changes, especially below Ridgway Reservoir. Always check current conditions and be prepared for varying weather.
For gear, guides, and local expertise, consider visiting:
- **RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service:** Located in Ridgway, offering equipment, guided trips, and up-to-date fishing reports.
- **Montrose Anglers:** Based in Montrose, providing gear and local fishing information.
Several organizations are dedicated to the conservation of the Uncompahgre River:
- **Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership:** Focuses on protecting and improving the river's health.
- **Colorado Trout Unlimited:** Engages in conservation efforts across the state, including the Uncompahgre River.