Fishing · Ridgway, CO
Uncompahgre River
Before you go
Live · nearest station Telluride, 15 miGood window today. Daylight to 8:12 pm.
Smoky
Feels like 51°
Trailhead temp
58° est. at 6,800 ft
Wind
5 mph ESE
UV index
0 low
Sun window
6:21 am to 8:12 pm
San Miguel River near Placerville is running 54 cfs.
Distance
—
Elevation gain
51ft
High point
6,821ft
Season
Apr - Octpeak now
About
The Uncompahgre River below Ridgway Reservoir, locally known as Pa-Co-Chu-Puk, is a productive tailwater fishery located within Ridgway State Park, approximately four to nine miles from Ridgway. This stretch of river flows through a high-desert setting framed by the San Juan Mountains and offers year-round fly fishing opportunities due to consistent, cold water releases from the reservoir. The fishery is noted for its accessibility, featuring paved parking, designated disabled access spots, restrooms, and well-maintained banks suitable for wading. The river supports healthy populations of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, with many fish exceeding 16 inches and some reaching over 20 inches. Regulations for this section mandate catch-and-release only and require the use of artificial flies and lures. Access is managed through Ridgway State Park, which charges a day-use fee and provides camping and picnic facilities.
Trail profile
Gain
51 ft
Avg grade
—
Steepest
—
High point
6,821 ft
Good to know
Parking at the trailhead
Restrooms available
Dogs allowed on leash
Waypoints
Latest water reportfair
Early spring conditions. Water levels may be rising with snowmelt, potentially leading to muddy water in some areas. Check recent flows before fishing.
Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified
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