At a Glance
- Species: Cutthroat, Brown Trout
- Access: Walk from downtown
- License Required: Colorado fishing license
- Best Season: July–Oct
The Uncompahgre Through Town
The Uncompahgre River enters Ouray from the south through the narrow canyon that defines the town's geography. By the time it passes through the city center, the river is a freestone stream running over large boulders and through deep pools that hold trout year-round.
Public access to the river within Ouray is limited but available in several spots, including near the hot springs complex and at the river corridor north of town. The best fishing is typically in the morning before the canyon heats up and the fish retreat to deeper, cooler water.
River Character and What to Fish
The Uncompahgre runs cold — fed by high-elevation snowfields and the hot springs outlet, which creates subtle temperature variations that trout favor. Both cutthroat and brown trout are present; the cutthroat are typically found in faster water, browns in the deeper eddies.
Fly fishing is the traditional approach; small dry flies and nymphs in sizes 16–20 are effective through the summer. Runoff from snowmelt typically clears by early July, after which clarity and conditions improve significantly.
Fishing-Focused Trips from the Lumberyard
The Lumberyard Condos have a full kitchen for preparing the day's catch and plenty of outdoor space for waders and rods to dry between sessions. The river is within easy walking distance in multiple directions.
Book direct at ouraycondos.com. Dogs are welcome at no extra charge — a bonus when fishing trips often include four-legged company.