Animas River
CO
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River
About Animas River
The Animas River in Southwestern Colorado is a 126-mile Colorado Gold Metal Water destination, flowing from the San Juan Mountains through Silverton and Durango before merging with the San Juan River. This river is home to plentiful rainbow trout, as well as brown trout that can grow to impressive sizes, with brook trout and Colorado cutthroat also present. Anglers can expect excellent hatches of Midges year-round, Caddisflies like Spotted Sedges, Green Sedges, and Pale Morning Duns, and terrestrial insects such as grasshoppers and beetles. The Animas River offers significant accessibility, particularly a seven-mile public access stretch through Durango, with many areas being wide but shallow, suitable for wading and offering ample space. For larger nymphs and streamers, a 9-foot 6-weight rod with a sink tip line is recommended, while a 5-weight is ideal for dry flies and smaller nymphs.
Animas River Hatch Chart
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Quick Actions
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during year round. Check water conditions before heading out.
See what insects are emerging on Animas River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.
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Hatch forecasts, river gages, fly scanning, and your journal — built for on-stream use. Be prepared before you get to the water. Free on the App Store and Google Play.
Conditions Report
Read tips and insights about recent conditions for Animas River — gathered from on line sources.
Read the Conditions ReportWater conditions
Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.
Data sourced from USGS National Water Information System
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Rainbow Trout
Brown Trout
Brook Trout
Cutthroat
Fishing Styles
Methods
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Wade Friendly
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Float Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Blm
Private No Access