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The Uncompahgre River, or the “Unc” as it is locally known, births high in the windswept San Juan Mountains and slogs northward through the towns of Ouray, Ridgway, and Montrose as it makes its 75 mile voyage toward a marriage with the Gunnison River in Delta. The premiere stretch of the Unc is the tailwater below Ridgway Dam in Ridgway State Park known as Pa-Co-Chu-Puk or “Paco.” Paco is a tremendous year-round trout stream which boasts wild brown trout, a hodgepodge of wild and stocked rainbow trout, and Snake River cutthroat trout brood fish.
Experience the thrill of the catch on a guided fly fishing trip to the tailwater of Ridgway Dam, also known as "Pa-Co-Chu-Puk". This technical tailwater is home to trophy brown and rainbow trout, as well as the elusive Snake River cutthroat trout. As you sight cast and fish, you'll be challenged by the strong currents and technical nature of the water, allowing you to test your skills and improve your technique. Due to the nature of this fishery being a tailwater, you can find yourself fishing Paco year around. During the summer months, the tailwater experiences strong PMD and Green Drake hatches, creating the perfect environment for an unforgettable fishing experience. Fall season is a shop favorite, bigger meals and cooler temps welcome in trophy sized browns. Throughout Winter and Spring, fish feed happily on midges and baetis making it a challenging but fun time to sight fish! With the guidance of our expert fly fishing guides, you'll be able to navigate the waters and reel in some impressive catches, all while surrounded by the stunning scenery of the mountainous landscape.
A ½ day trip is 4 hrs. on the water
*We highly discourage 3 person trips and will choose to send a 2nd guide if clients are all beginners.
A full day trip is 6-7 hrs. on the water
*We highly discourage 3 person trips and will choose to send a 2nd guide if clients are all beginners
Trip will start at the shop, at a time agreed upon to provide the best fishing experience. Transportation to and from the river is provided if desired. Waders and Boots are not included but are available for rental at $25 per day.
Responsibility and Liability: Fishing is an adventure sport that involves risk. We cannot be responsible for lost or damaged articles or personal injury. We are fully bonded, insured and licensed, but you participate at your own risk and must sign a waiver of liability for each trip. Safety is our number one priority at Montrose Anglers, as such drugs or alcohol are not permitted on any of our fly-fishing trips. All trips go out rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe by the guide. If you have any questions please call the shop at 970-249-0408 or email us at info@MontroseAnglers.com In the event that a trip is canceled, we will reschedule the trip for a future date.
All trip participants, 16 years of age and older, are always required to carry a valid Colorado fishing license with them while fishing. We strongly suggest our guests to purchase their license online prior to the trip in order to save time and get on the river sooner. You can purchase them online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website at https://www.cpwshop.com/licensing.page. Cost of license is not included in trip prices.
