The
Experience
Fly
Fishing via the
Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the most unique
angling adventures in North America. Step back in time by climbing
aboard
the historic
steam
powered train as it chugs north from Durango to Silverton. After
pushing through the lazy Animas valley the Durango-Silverton rambles
into the San Juan National Forest. Giant ponderosa pines line the
tracks through the stunning upper
Animas canyon. The
narrow
rails
parallel
the
entire
length
of
the Animas River from Durango to Silverton. As an angler you'll be
itching' to cast into the the pockets and pools of the enchanting
waters. Access into
this
section
of
the
Animas
is
limited to hiking, horseback and of course, by train. Because of
the limited access, this remote section of river is full of gullible
trout and sees very little fishing pressure.
The
fishing
The Animas north of Durango fishes like a mountain stream, although
it has more flow and depth than a typical high country creek.
The river crashes and cascades from one fishy pool to another through steep
canyons and tree lined banks. The water
is clear-green
with
a good mix
of
pocket water
and
pools. Rainbow,
cutthroat, brook and brown trout will come willingly to dries and nymphs.
Hopper-dropper rigs are effective in most waters, but a full nymph
rig worked in the deepest
pools will find the larger trout. Fish size ranges from 8 to 16
inches. The tributaries are also a blast to fish as they tumble out from
their respective valleys before converging with the Animas. There
are strong populations
of trout in the tributaries and their size range from 6 to 12 inches.
If you like fishing a light rod then these waters are for you. This
is serious zero to 3 weight water.
The
day
We will meet clients
at
the Depot in Durango or at any of the area hotels. The early morning departure
will
begin
from
the
downtown Durango
or
Rockwood train
depot. (Rockwood is located about 18 miles north of Durango.) Depending
on
the
departure location, the train ride will last an hour and twenty
minuets
to
a
little
over
two hours. Once the train drops us off, we will fish all day, taking a few
breaks to check out the scenery and have a quick bite to eat. We'll work the
waters
until
the
afternoon
train
makes its way back from Silverton. Each train has a different schedule and your
trusty guide
will know when and were to meet it. |
The
details and dates
Train
trips are available spring, summer and fall. Please book well in
advance because the Durango-Silverton Train is one
of Durango's most popular activities and seats fill fast. Fall
is a stunning time to be on the rails as well as the water, however,
spring and summer are pretty nice as well. Click the rates link
below for costs and booking details.
Train
buffs and anglers alike will find this to be an exciting way
to fish this remote river. Book now for the 2006 season aboard
the historic Durango-Silverton Train. Please
drop us a line with questions. 970.259.0484 |