What to Expect on Your Trip

Booking a guided fly fishing trip with San Juan River Fly Fishing means stepping into a world-class trout fishery with an experienced guide who knows these waters inside and out. Whether you're brand new to fly fishing or have years under your belt, we keep things fun, approachable, and dialed-in. This page covers what’s included, what to bring, and how your day will unfold — so you can show up relaxed and ready to fish.

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Trip Timeline – A Typical Day on the San Juan

Once you book your trip, we’ll either confirm your preferred meet time online or touch base over the phone to coordinate details that suit your schedule and the conditions. For full-day floats, we usually meet between 7:00–9:00 AM; for half-day floats, start times are flexible between 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

Full-day trips include 8 hours on the water, with a riverside lunch break around midday. Half-day trips include 4 hours of guided fishing. The goal is to maximize your time on productive water, without ever rushing — just solid fishing and good vibes.

Our float trips involve minimal physical effort. The boat is comfortable and secure, with padded seats and lean bars for stability. No hiking required — just step in and start fishing.

If you’re staying in Durango, the San Juan River is about an hour’s scenic drive through red rock canyons and high desert terrain. We’ll send clear directions and meeting details after your booking. After the trip, you’ll head back from the river to the original meeting location.

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Meeting Location & Travel Info

We launch most of our trips from Navajo Dam, New Mexico, a peaceful little outpost tucked into the high desert. The San Juan flows cold and clear out of Navajo Lake year-round, making it a productive tailwater fishery even in winter.

The weather here is generally sunny and dry, but it can shift quickly. Always check the forecast — and we’ll remind you to bring layers just in case.

Once your trip is booked, we’ll personally reach out to confirm the exact meeting point and time. No guesswork, no stress.

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Gear & Rentals

We’ve got the essentials covered:

• High-quality fly rod and reel

• All terminal tackle (flies, leader, tippet, indicators, split shot, etc.)

• Refreshments for the day

• Riverside lunch on full-day trips

• Transportation upon request

Please bring your own waders and boots — we don’t provide them. Need to rent gear? We recommend:

• Duranglers in Durango, CO

• Float N Fish near Navajo Dam, NM

Let us know where you're staying, and we’ll point you in the right direction for gear.

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What to Bring

Here’s a quick checklist for your trip:

• Valid New Mexico fishing license

• Hat and polarized sunglasses

• Sunscreen and lip balm

• Light jacket or rain shell — weather can shift fast

• Waders and boots (for wade trips or cold mornings on the boat)

• Personal comfort items (snacks, medication, etc.)

• Gratuity for your guide — always appreciated

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Weather & Seasonal Tips

Summer on the San Juan means warm days, bright sun, and cool water — perfect for wet wading. Spring and fall bring more mixed weather, but also some of the best fishing of the year. Winter mornings can be brisk, but the river rarely freezes, and midges hatch year-round.

From July through early September, expect occasional monsoon storms — quick bursts of wind and rain. Always bring rain gear and layers so you’re ready for anything.

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Cancellation Policy

A 50% deposit is required to secure your date. You can pay via credit card, cash, or check.

• Cancel more than 15 days in advance: deposit refunded, minus a $20 admin fee.

• Cancel 14–2 days before: deposit is forfeited.

• Cancel within 48 hours or no-show: full trip charge applies.

Trips run rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. In rare cases where we cancel due to safety or river closures, you can reschedule or get a refund (minus the $20 fee).

Trip cost does not include gratuity, fishing license, or gear rentals.

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FAQs

Do I need fly fishing experience?
Not at all. We welcome complete beginners and offer easy-to-follow instruction, patient coaching, and a pressure-free vibe.

Can kids come along?
Yes — kids 8 and older are welcome. Just let us know ahead of time so we can tailor the day appropriately.

Do you accommodate dietary needs?
Absolutely. Just let us know any restrictions when booking, and we’ll make sure lunch is taken care of.

Can I keep the fish?
We practice catch and release on our guided trips to help protect this unique fishery. In limited areas where keeping fish is legal, we can discuss ethical options — but we strongly encourage letting these beautiful trout go.

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Float or Wade?

The San Juan is famous for its tailwater float fishing, but it also offers solid wade access. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Drift Boat Fishing

• Covers more water in a day

• Easier for beginners and guests with limited mobility

• Great during high flows or muddy bank conditions

• Smooth and comfortable — just sit back and fish

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Wade Fishing

• More precise control and stealth

• Ideal for learning the river if you plan to fish it solo

• Great for targeting technical lies in shallows or side channels

• Allows access to special spots like the upper half-mile

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We’ll help you decide which option is best for your goals and the season.

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