San Juan River Below Navajo Dam
Fishing Guide
A world-renowned tailwater
Experience the raw, untamed power of the San Juan River below Navajo Dam in New Mexico—a playground for serious anglers. With relentless flows, explosive insect hatches, and trophy trout that push your limits, this water delivers high-octane action and the ultimate test for those who know the drill. Gear up and get ready to challenge nature on a river built for legends.
Why is the San Juan River so Unique?
The nutrient-rich, cool waters of the San Juan River create an ideal habitat for robust trout populations. Brown and rainbow trout dominate these waters, with typical sizes ranging from 16-20 inches and trophy specimens pushing past 25 inches.
Thanks to the consistent flow regulated by Navajo Dam, fishing conditions remain stable all year. Expect crystal-clear water during low-flow periods, and during higher flows, the slightly off-colored water can actually give you an edge by keeping the fish more relaxed.
San Juan River
Hatch Chart
The San Juan River is a fly fisherman's paradise, loaded with a beautiful array of aquatic insects that keep the action going, YEAR ROUND!
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Midges: Found year-round, providing a steady food source.
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Baetis (Blue-Winged Olives): Thriving from spring through fall.
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Leeches: A natural lure that never goes out of style.
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Scuds: Abundant and enticing.
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Annelids: Offering a subtle but effective presentation.
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Caddisflies: Especially prevalent downriver, adding to the river's dynamic ecosystem.
San Juan River
Fly Recommendations
Midges (Sizes 18-26), try these proven patterns:
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Zebra Midge: Available in red, black, and olive.
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Miracle Larvae: Comes in red, olive, and brown.
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Disco Midge and The Red Midge.
Baetis (Sizes 20-28), effective choices include:
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CDC RS2: In gray and olive.
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Foam Wing Emerger
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Thread Body Baetis
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Mercury Pheasant Tail.
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Killer Mayfly
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WD-40
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Split Case BWO
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Barr's Emerger
Other effective options are:
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San Juan Worm: Especially effective during higher flows.
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Egg Patterns: Excellent for fall and early spring.
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Mop Flies: In chartreuse and cream for added versatility.
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Streamers: Like Woolly Buggers, larger leeches, along with rainbow and brown trout patterns, plus articulated flies and jigs for targeting larger fish.
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These selections offer a broad arsenal to tackle the dynamic conditions of the San Juan River and land those trophy trout.
Rigging and Techniques for the San Juan River
Nymphing:
On the San Juan River, nymphing reigns supreme. Employ a two-fly rig where the lead is an attractor—think San Juan Worm—and the dropper is a finely-tuned midge or Baetis. Adjust your rig's depth with split shot and a strike indicator to keep your flies drifting just above the riverbed, where the action is hottest.
Dry Fly Fishing:
Dry fly fishing may not always yield results, but it shines during robust midge and Baetis hatches—and the legendary "Ant Fall." Opt for small Parachute Adams, Griffith’s Gnats, or Sparkle Duns to mirror the hatch. With ants being the most abundant bug around, they’re always a smart call.
Streamer Fishing:
Streamers are your go-to on overcast days or when flows are higher. Use a sink-tip line or add weight to your leader to ensure your fly reaches the desired depth. Patterns like Woolly Buggers, rainbow and brown trout designs, or articulated streamers can provoke bold strikes from larger fish, giving you the edge in any situation.
Seasonal Factors to Consider
Winter (November - February):
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Conditions: Low water levels, crystal-clear visibility, and biting cold.
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Bugs: Midges take center stage.
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Tips: Target deeper runs and slow water currents. Bundle up in insulated layers, gloves, and waterproof gear to stay comfortable.
Spring (March - May):
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Conditions: Water levels rise as runoff kicks in, activating the river.
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Bugs: A mix of midges and Baetis hatches energizes the scene.
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Tips: Switch to longer leaders and smaller flies to match the more active feeding patterns.
Summer (June - August):
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Conditions: Stable flows and warm, inviting temperatures.
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Bugs: Expect caddisflies, midges, and an influx of terrestrials like ants and hoppers.
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Tips: Fish during early mornings and evenings to dodge the mid-day heat, and opt for lightweight, breathable attire.
Fall (September - October):
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Conditions: Lower flows with cooling water temperatures set the stage.
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Bugs: Baetis and midges become the primary offerings.
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Tips: This season is ideal for sight fishing. Use smaller tippets (6x-7x) and delicate presentations to capitalize on the conditions.
Rods and Reels
Under normal conditions, a softer, slower-action rod is ideal for delicately presenting flies and safeguarding light tippets. In high water, however, a faster-action rod better handles the heavier, longer rigs required. Pair your setup with a reel that has a smooth drag system and use a floating line matched to your rod's weight for optimal performance.
Guided Trips with
San Juan River Fly Fishing
When you book a guided trip with San Juan River Fly Fishing, we equip you with everything necessary for a rewarding day on the water—fly rods, reels, and all the terminal tackle you need. Just bring your waders and boots if you're planning to wade, along with a valid New Mexico fishing license. We’ll handle lunch, snacks, and beverages to keep you energized, so you can concentrate fully on fishing. Whether you opt for a full-day float or a wade trip, our expert guides will customize the experience to suit your skill level and goals.
Connect with San Juan River Fly Fishing now to lock in your adventure and forge memories that will fuel your passion for years to come.