Uncompahgre below ridgeway
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Rating - Good
Wednesday, Mar 25 2026
Fishing conditions on the Uncompahgre River, particularly the popular Pa-Co-Chu-Puk (Paco) tailwater section below Ridgway Reservoir, are currently reported as active but technical. With stable water temperatures and steady dam releases, trout remain active, though feeding windows are most consistent during the warmest parts of the day. Current River ConditionsAs of late March 2026, the river is in a transitional phase between winter and spring.Flows: Steady at approximately 3653 cfs.Water Temperature: Ranging from 44F to 50F.Visibility: Clear, making for excellent but challenging sight fishing.Best Time: Mid-morning to early afternoon. Recommended Strategies & GearThe clear, low water requires a "stealthy and tactical" approach to avoid spooking educated fish. Technique: Nymphing is the primary producer. Tightline/Euro rigs are highly effective, or use light yarn indicators to reduce splash.Tippet: Use light 5x or 6x fluorocarbon for stealthy presentations.Rod: A 9ft 4wt or 5wt rod is recommended for most sections. Top Fly PatternsFocus on smaller bugs, leading with an attractor or weight fly. Midges: Sizes 1824 (Black Flash Midge Pupa, Bling Midge).Mayflies/Baetis: Sizes 1820 (RS-2s, Killer May, Jujubaetis).Attractors: Leading with a small Leech, San Juan Worm, or Egg pattern (Sizes 1418) helps add weight and visibility.Dries: Small Parachute Adams or BWO imitations may work if you spot rising fish during afternoon hatches. Local Regulations & AccessPa-Co-Chu-Puk (Paco): This stretch is Catch and Release only and restricted to artificial flies and lures. A daily pass or annual Colorado State Parks pass is required for entry into Ridgway State Park.Montrose/Town Stretch: Offers easier access and remains productive, though fish may hold in deeper holes during cold mornings. Be aware of newer Catch and Release regulations on the northern sections.
Wednesday, Mar 25 2026
Weather Report
Uncompahgre below ridgeway WeatherAccess Info
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Uncompahgre below ridgeway
RECEIVE FISHING REPORT UPDATES!
Rating - Good
Fishing conditions on the Uncompahgre River, particularly the popular Pa-Co-Chu-Puk (Paco) tailwater section below Ridgway Reservoir, are currently reported as active but technical. With stable water temperatures and steady dam releases, trout remain active, though feeding windows are most consistent during the warmest parts of the day. Current River ConditionsAs of late March 2026, the river is in a transitional phase between winter and spring.Flows: Steady at approximately 3653 cfs.Water Temperature: Ranging from 44F to 50F.Visibility: Clear, making for excellent but challenging sight fishing.Best Time: Mid-morning to early afternoon. Recommended Strategies & GearThe clear, low water requires a "stealthy and tactical" approach to avoid spooking educated fish. Technique: Nymphing is the primary producer. Tightline/Euro rigs are highly effective, or use light yarn indicators to reduce splash.Tippet: Use light 5x or 6x fluorocarbon for stealthy presentations.Rod: A 9ft 4wt or 5wt rod is recommended for most sections. Top Fly PatternsFocus on smaller bugs, leading with an attractor or weight fly. Midges: Sizes 1824 (Black Flash Midge Pupa, Bling Midge).Mayflies/Baetis: Sizes 1820 (RS-2s, Killer May, Jujubaetis).Attractors: Leading with a small Leech, San Juan Worm, or Egg pattern (Sizes 1418) helps add weight and visibility.Dries: Small Parachute Adams or BWO imitations may work if you spot rising fish during afternoon hatches. Local Regulations & AccessPa-Co-Chu-Puk (Paco): This stretch is Catch and Release only and restricted to artificial flies and lures. A daily pass or annual Colorado State Parks pass is required for entry into Ridgway State Park.Montrose/Town Stretch: Offers easier access and remains productive, though fish may hold in deeper holes during cold mornings. Be aware of newer Catch and Release regulations on the northern sections.
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