Dolores River

About

The Dolores River in Western Colorado offers year-round fishing, primarily below the McPhee Reservoir. This 12-mile stretch is a tailwater fishery known for large brown trout, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. The river maintains steady flows between 50 and 90 cubic feet per second (CFS) during the summer months, creating wadeable conditions. Anglers target species feeding on BWOs and caddis hatches, which occur from late spring through November. The upper sections of the river start at an elevation near 10,000 feet and transition into the lower tailwater. While upstream areas freeze in winter, the section below the dam remains open year-round and is often designated as catch-and-release. Access points are available along CO-145, US-491, and various county roads leading south from Telluride. Parking is available at these access sites. The terrain is high-desert and wild, with no major ski developments interrupting the river corridor. Difficulty is moderate, requiring basic wading skills and lightweight gear. Pets are permitted at the fishing spots.