Uncompahgre River

contributed by Bill Sheppard

The Uncompahgre is relatively unknown to many anglers in Colorado. This river flows through some of the state's best scenery, starting near Ouray and flowing north until merging with the Gunnison near Delta.

Recent efforts by various agencies have established an excellent fishery below Ridgway Reservoir. This area has become home to some very nice trout and a fine insect population.

It's easy to find the river - US Hwys 550 and 50 run alongside. Access is more difficult but there are some parks and state wildlife areas. Maybe these photos will inspire you to go check out the Uncompahgre!

Uncompahgre fly fishing
Big beautiful Browns from the Uncompahgre
River will bring a smile to every ones face! (Photo by Bill Sheppard)
Uncompahgre fly fishing
Bill Sheppard enjoys success with a Baetis hatch on the Uncompahgre River.
Uncompahgre fly fishing
Tim Patterson, Co-Owner/Guide ofRidgway Independent Guide Service, works the dry fly below the tail-waters of the Uncompahgre River.(Photo by Roger Blum)
Uncompahgre fly fishing
Nice rainbow who has been eating well! (Photo by Scott Fraser)
Uncompahgre fly fishing
Western Slope Cutthroat trout are a common and welcome site on the Uncompahgre. (photo by Roger Blum)
Uncompahgre fly fishing
Rainbow Trout above 20 inches are not uncommon on the river.(Photo: Scott Fraser)
Uncompahgre fly fishing
Private waters of the Uncompahgre produce some of the regions largest Rainbow Trout. Tim Patterson and client celebrate the catch of another Pig!(Photo by Roger Blum)

Resources/Other Info:

Trout on Colorado State LandsClick here to buy an Ebook about Trout on Colorado State lands - includes a lot of info about 150 Colorado fishing lakes and streams

Click here to go to RIGS Flyshop & Guide Service's website

Info on Uncompahgre Tailwater fishery at Pa-Co-Chu-Puk click here and on the Uncompahgre click here