Colorado’s stunning beauty and abundance of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs make this state an ideal destination for fisherpeople of all ages. Ridgway is one of the best places to enjoy year-round fishing of trout, salmon, smallmouth bass, and other fish. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to this pastime, plan your next trip with this list of four of the best fishing spots in Ridgway, Colorado.
Ridgway Reservoir
Ridgway Reservoir was filled in 1990 to improve irrigation in the Uncompahgre Valley. The reservoir has over 1,000 acres of surface water, offering ample space for fishing and boating.
The reservoir’s depth and size make it a favorite spot to catch smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, green sunfish, and other game fish. The reservoir is in Ridgway State Park, so when you’re not out on the water, you can enjoy hiking, biking, birding, and viewing wildlife on nearly 14 miles of developed trails.
Uncompahgre River
Another one of the best fishing spots in Ridgway, Colorado, is the Uncompahgre River. This river is a 75-mile-long tributary of the Gunnison River, and the section running between Ridgway Reservoir and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Campground is an especially attractive spot for catching brown trout.
The US Bureau of Reclamation, Colorado Parks & Wildlife, and Trout Unlimited collaborated to improve the habitat for fish in 1994. They placed logs, rocks, and boulders in the river to create a welcoming place for fish. The river is stocked with rainbow and cutthroat trout, but the naturally reproducing brown trout get especially large.
Silver Jack Reservoir
About an hour and 20 minutes away from Ridgway lies Silver Jack Reservoir, a remote fishing spot with a surface area of 293 acres. Here, anglers can catch rainbow, cutthroat, and other trout types in a serene environment.
Well-maintained campgrounds for day use and overnight visits in the Silver Jack Reservoir Recreation Area offer a convenient place to unwind. You can reach the reservoir via a scenic drive through the mountains.
Dallas Creek
Dallas Creek is a tributary of the Uncompahgre River and a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. The Dallas Creek site has a trail connecting the park to Ridgway, but public access to the creek itself is limited. Here, you can enjoy picturesque views in a secluded area.
The creek is home to rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Ensure you “match the hatch” and offer fish artificial imitations of the insects they’re naturally eating at the time of your trip.
Ridgway Reservoir, Uncompahgre River, Silver Jack Reservoir, and Dallas Creek offer anglers various fishing experiences, each with unique charms. Reserve an off-road Jeep rental in Ridgway, Colorado, to access all these sites and more on your next excursion.