Fly Fishing in the Four Corners
There’s a saying among anglers: a day spent fishing is a day well spent, and nowhere does this ring truer than in the crisp days of fall. As the frenzy of summer fades, the wilderness takes on a wilder allure, offering ample opportunities for fly fishermen in the Four Corners region. Whether you’re casting in high country streams, alpine lakes, or deep canyon rivers, fall fishing promises an abundance of big bugs and even bigger trout.
Colorado:
In Colorado, where the waters teem with trout year-round, fall brings a sense of tranquility to the angling experience. With 322 miles of Gold Medal waters, including 11 rivers and three lakes, there’s no shortage of fishing spots to explore. The Animas River near Durango is a hotspot for anglers seeking big brown and rainbow trout, particularly in the 4-mile stretch of Gold Medal waters. For a more picturesque experience, venture north to Hermosa Creek behind Purgatory Resort, where the largest pure Colorado River cutthroat habitat awaits.
Arizona:
Arizona’s White Mountains offer anglers the chance to reel in the elusive Apache trout, thanks to collaborative restoration efforts. The East Fork of the Black River, accessible from Springerville, provides prime fishing grounds for these prized beauties. Meanwhile, Oak Creek Canyon, nestled between Sedona and Flagstaff, offers a scenic retreat for anglers of all skill levels, with its vibrant landscapes and abundant trout.
Utah:
Fish Lake, just outside of Loa in south central Utah, beckons anglers with its impressive size and monster trout. From lake trout exceeding 30 pounds to rarely caught tiger trout, Fish Lake promises an unforgettable fishing experience. Nearby Seven Mile Creek is another hotspot, boasting large brookies and tiger trout in the 20-plus inch range.
New Mexico:
The infamous San Juan River near Farmington is a must-visit destination for fishermen seeking huge trout and technical challenges. While the waters below Navajo Dam are the most fishable, the entire river offers ample opportunities for anglers to test their skills against these elusive giants. Fall is an ideal time to fish the San Juan, with thinner crowds and big fish aplenty.
Whether you’re casting on Colorado’s Gold Medal waters, chasing Apache trout in Arizona, exploring Utah’s Fish Lake, or testing your skills on the San Juan River in New Mexico, fall fishing in the Four Corners promises an unforgettable adventure for anglers of all levels.