Uncompahgre River

Fly Fish the Uncompahgre River

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.    Further downstream, the Uncompahgre River runs through the town of Montrose and may be the best kept fly fishing secret on the western slope of Colorado.  The town stretch of the Unc offers great fly fishing for browns, rainbows, and cutbows, year around. Strong midges hatches occur near daily throughout the winter months, while terrestrials and stoneflies make up these trout's diet for the summer months. Although the average fish size is lower than other rivers in the area, 20-plus inch trout are not uncommon.   Our experienced guides will take you on a journey into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where you'll have the opportunity to catch wild rainbow and brown trout in one of the healthiest rivers in the state.

One of Western Colorado's Best Fisheries

The Uncompahgre River is known for its higher summer flows and strong biomass, making it a perfect destination for fly fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels. Our guides will teach you everything you need to know about casting, reading the river, stragety/techinques, and choosing the right bugs to be succesfull on the water. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including towering cliffs, lush forests, and of course the San Juan mountain range. We offer a variety of trip options to suit your needs, from half-day trips to full-day excursions. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or a challenging adventure, we've got you covered. At the end of the day, you'll return to Montrose with memories that will last a lifetime. You'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the art of fly fishing, as well as a deeper connection to the natural world. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience. Book your guided fishing trip on the Uncompahgre River today!

Package Options

Half Day Trip

A ½ day trip is 4 hrs. on the water and Includes

Includes
  • Fly Rod/Reel
  • Flies and leaders
  • Water/Snacks

$290 1 person / $390 2 person

*We highly discourage 3 person trips and will choose to send a 2nd guide if clients are all beginners

Full Day Trip

A full day trip is 6-7 hrs. on the water and Includes

Includes
  • Fly Rod/Reel
  • Flies and leaders
  • Water/Snacks and Lunch

$395 1 person / $495 2 person

*We highly discourage 3 person trips and will choose to send a 2nd guide if clients are all beginners

Float & Wade Trip

Experience the Uncompahgre River through floating and wading spots that are hard to reach by foot at summer flows. This trip is the most effective way to fish this stretch of river.

Includes
  • Fly Rod/Reel
  • Flies and leaders
  • Water/Snacks and Lunch

$400 Half Day / $500 Full Day

*1 person per boat

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.

Ask and we will answer

How many anglers per guide?

What does the cost of the trip include?

What gear should I bring?

What is an appropriate tip for my guide?

What is our reservation and cancellation policy?

Where and when do we meet on trip day?