When travelers pick Durango, Colorado as their vacation destination of choice, they’ll quickly discover that it’s a place with something for everyone to love. Whether you’re one for rich history, fantastic dining, exciting shopping options, or family-friendly entertainment, it’s a destination that never fails to inspire. It’s also a place that’s beloved among angling enthusiasts looking for the next best place to cast a line. When you can’t wait to see what’s biting in the waters of the San Juan Mountains, planning a Durango fishing journey this year is an absolute must.
Enjoy a Wide Variety of Terrific Fishing Destinations to Pick From
The beauty of booking a Durango fishing journey is that no matter what season you arrive or how long you stay, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to top-rated places to reel in something exciting. In fact, this is a place that’s known for being surrounded by some of the finest fishing waters you can explore across the entirety of the Rocky Mountains. That means you’ll want to set aside plenty of time to experience as many of them as possible for yourself.
Just north of town, Haviland Lake is easily accessible off of US-550 North. This is a peaceful place for a day of fishing when you’re on the hunt for rainbow trout, and prefer to cast a line from a small boat or the shoreline.
Anglers heading to Durango will also want to make sure they make time on their agenda for a stop at Vallecito Lake. This body of water is located just northeast of the city, and is a large reservoir to explore when you’re hoping to reel in kokanee salmon, trout, or pike alike.
Of course, no trip to Durango is truly complete for an angler until you’ve spent quality time fishing the Animas River. Flowing right through the heart of downtown Durango, this is perhaps the easiest body of water to reach, and a great place for fly fishing when you’re here.
Fish You Might Find in the Waters Around Durango
Many anglers who spend time in Durango are thrilled by the sheer variety of fish species they have the opportunity to reel in when they’re here. Some of the most common types of fish you’ll find in the local reservoirs, lakes, and rivers include rainbow trout and brown trout. However, those who take time to venture out towards more off-the-beaten-path alpine lakes and streams will likely find they increase their chances of reeling in brook trout, too.
If you can’t wait to catch northern pike while you’re here, you’re going to want to focus your time around Vallecito Lake, while kokanee salmon are kept well-stocked in both the Vallecito and nearby Lemon Reservoirs. For anglers who can’t count any fishing trip complete until they’ve caught a cutthroat trout or two, Durango offers up an abundance of possibilities for success within its local streams and rivers.
Stock Up on Essentials Before You Head Out
Making the most of your time on the water begins with stocking up on fishing essentials you know you’ll need before you head out. When you’re enjoying a fishing journey to Durango, you’ll be pleased to find there are plenty of bait and tackle shops to choose from when you need to gear up. The San Juan Angler, Gardenswartz Sporting Goods, and Duranglers Fly Fishing Shop & Guides are all conveniently located right on Main Avenue. At Duranglers Fly Fishing Shop & Guides, you’ll also enjoy opportunities to book time out on the water with a local expert when you’re looking to hone your skills or learn fly fishing for the very first time.
It’s also important to make sure you check in on local fishing regulations through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Service before casting a line. This will help you avoid any fines, protect your environmental surroundings, and give you the time you need to acquire the proper license if necessary.
Book Incredible Accommodations and Enjoy Fishing in Durango Today
When you can’t wait to enjoy fishing in Durango this year, the team of property professionals at Durango Colorado Vacations will make sure you have incredible accommodations to match. Our property options can easily be booked near the water, helping you maximize your time casting a line every day of your stay!
When you return at day’s end, you’ll find that many of our Durango, CO homes for rent have full kitchens in place so you can cook up what you’ve caught with ease. From homes with stunning mountain views and private balconies to those that have hot tubs, fireplaces, and pet-friendly amenities in place, customizing every day of your stay is easier than ever when you book through us.
Reach out today to learn more about our inviting and exciting fishing cabins in Durango, Colorado and how we can help you put together a fishing-focused getaway this year that you won’t soon forget!
