The San Juan
River below the Navajo Dam is a classic tail-water, with stable water
temperatures never rising above the mid-40's. The result is pervasive
algae, which is a mixed blessing : prolific insect life good for trout,
but tough for fisherman because the algae need to be regularly cleaned
from the fly. The San Juan can either be waded or floated,
and fished year-round. When wading, be sure to have warm fleece liner
breathable waders and slip-resistant boots (felt and/or cleats). Wading is
made convenient by the numerous parking areas close to the river. If you
prefer floating, you can take a 14-mile trip down to the town of Blanco.
Most of the lower river is private property and wading is not an option.
As on many large rivers of the west, float-fishing on the San Juan River
can be the most productive way to catch fish and explore the area. Not
only can you access water that is otherwise inaccessible, but you can also
cover many more miles of water.
Special
Regulations
The 4 miles of
Quality Water is Barbless Hook, Artificial Flies and Lures only. From the
dam downstream (1/4 mile) the river is restricted to Catch and Release
only. The next 3.5 miles is designated as Quality Waters and possession of
one fish over 20" is allowed.
and fished year-round. When wading, be sure to have warm fleece liner
breathable waders and slip-resistant boots (felt and/or cleats). Wading is
made convenient by the numerous parking areas close to the river. If you
prefer floating, you can take a 14-mile trip down to the town of Blanco.
Most of the lower river is private property and wading is not an option.
As on many large rivers of the west, float-fishing on the San Juan River
can be the most productive way to catch fish and explore the area. Not
only can you access water that is otherwise inaccessible, but you can also
cover many more miles of water.