What Is The Best Time Of Year To flyfish The San Juan River? The San Juan River, flowing through the high desert of Northwest New Mexico is one of the most epic fly fishing destinations this country has to offer. This fishery flows through an amazing canyon with picturesque vistas in every direction. The Juan is known for its excellent year-round fishing, and offers anglers a unique opportunity throughout the year to catch trout. Whether you’re a salty angler or a novice, knowing the best time to fish the San Juan River can help you make the most of your trip. Each season offers anglers a unique experience, from different hatches to fewer crowds the river changes with the seasons. This blog offers a breakdown of the best times to try your hand at this world-class river.
FlyFish the San Juan River in the Spring: March – May
Spring is one of the most exciting times to flyfish the San Juan River. As temperatures rise on the river, both the water and fish begin to warm up, and anglers can expect to see increased fish activity. With the influx of hatches, including Blue Winged Olives (BWOs), midges, and caddisflies, spring presents great dry fly action.
Why Spring?
- Active Hatches: Spring brings a surge of hatches, particularly midges and BWOs, making the fishing action heat up.
- Mild Weather: Enjoy pleasant temperatures while fishing, making the experience comfortable.
- Fish are Active: Fish become more active as the weather warms, often feeding in shallow riffles, making them easier to target.
Spring Tip: Combine dry flies and nymphs for the best results. Beadhead midges or sow bugs can be effective patterns to use during this time.
FlyFish the San Juan River in the Summer: June – August
Summer offers anglers consistent fishing conditions, though it’s also the most popular time to flyfish the San Juan River. Despite the higher number of anglers, summer does bring great opportunities for fly fishing, with a variety of hatches and longer warm daylight hours.
Why Summer?
- Excellent Dry Fly Action: The warmer waters trigger a variety of hatches, including caddisflies, mayflies, and even terrestrials like ants and grasshoppers. There is lots of action in the summer!
- Longer Days: Longer daylight hours means way more time to fish, whether you’re targeting early morning or late evening hatches. You can fish late in the summer. My favorite time to fish is right up to sun down.
- Predictable Fishing: Summer weather makes for more stable fishing conditions. Although midday heat can slow things down, the early morning and evening hours provide excellent fishing opportunities.
Summer Tip: Fish during the early morning or evening hours when hatches are at their peak. !!!!WATCH OUT FOR FAST MOVING STORMS!!!!Thunderstorms and heavy rain can be frightening, but when the storm passes fishing is great! Try an ant dry fly immediately following a heavy storm!
FlyFish the San Juan River in the Fall: September – November
Fall is a beautiful and peaceful time to fish the San Juan River. It is my personal favorite time to fish . As the leaves change colors and the temperatures cool, fishing conditions remain excellent. During this season, anglers can expect to see a mix of late summer hatches and the first fall insect activity, including Baetis and midges.
Why Fall?
- Fewer Crowds: With the summer heat behind you, fall offers a quieter, more tranquil fishing experience.
- Continued Hatch Activity: Hatches remain abundant, keeping the fish very active.
- Trophy Fish: As fish prepare for the winter, they often feed heavily during the fall, increasing your chances of landing larger fish.
Fall Tip: Focus on deeper pools and runs where fish tend to congregate as the water cools. Nymphing with small midges or beadhead patterns is an effective strategy during the fall months.
FlyFish the San Juan River in the Winter: December – February
Anglers often think about frozen eyelets and brittle tippet during winter months. Some of my most memorable days on the San Juan have also been the coldest. I grew up fishing this river and as a young child and caught one of the biggest trout of my life on a cold miserable day. That one experience completely changed my attitude about cold days on the San Juan. While winter remains the least popular season for fishing the San Juan River, it can also be extremely rewarding. While cold temperatures may deter some anglers, those willing to brave the cold can enjoy the serenity of the river and catch some trophy-sized fish. Winter offers peaceful solitude and a unique challenge.
Why Winter?
- Peaceful Fishing: With fewer anglers on the river, you can enjoy a quiet, almost private experience.
- Midge Activity: Despite the cold, midges remain active, and fish continue to feed, providing steady fishing.
- Trophy Opportunities: Larger fish remain active in the colder months, giving anglers a chance to land big ones.
Winter Tip: Dress warm and focus on nymphing with small, subtle patterns. Fish tend to move slower in colder waters, so patience is key when fishing during winter. If you aren’t catching fish, adjust the depth of your nymph rig. Try a bright egg pattern for a top fly with a midge dropper.
Conclusion
The best time to flyfish the San Juan River really depends on what kind of fishing experience you’re looking for. Spring offers exciting hatches and active fish. Summer provides consistent fishing with long, warm days and diverse hatches. Fall brings fewer crowds and an opportunity to land trophy fish, while winter rewards those who embrace the cold with peaceful fishing and a chance at bigger trout.
No matter what time of year you decide, the San Juan River offers a world-class fishing experience. This river is great year round! By timing your visit and preparing for the seasonal conditions, you can enjoy an unforgettable fly fishing adventure at any point on the calendar. Happy fishing! Good luck out on the water!
How to get to the San Juan River!
If you are traveling from Alburquerque New Mexico, the map link bellow will lead you to the Texas Hole!
Read this post to see what else there is to do when visiting the area!
Greg Cathey grew up exploring the Southwest through hunting, fly-fishing, and camping. His childhood sparked a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He earned a degree in Outdoor Leadership from San Juan College and later graduated with honors in Social Psychology from American Military University. Greg worked in the oil and gas industry for nearly two decades and taught middle school history. Greg is a dedicated christian, husband and father of three. He enjoys climbing, hiking, and fly fishing with his family when he is not working.
