Fishing and Hunting

Fishing: There are plenty of opportunities for great fishing in high mountain lakes and streams as well as downstream rivers and reservoirs in the Conejos Peak, Del Norte, Creede, and Saguache Ranger Districts.

Opportunity for a quality experience is rated among the highest in the western United States. Many fishing areas are accessible by foot and horseback, while others are accessible by motor vehicle. The five major species of fish found in the forest include, the Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Cutthroat Trout and the Rio Grande Cutthroat. All persons fifteen years of age or older are required to have a Colorado fishing license. Visit the Division of Wildlife site for Fishing Information, Rules and Regulations, and online purchase of Applications and Licenses.

The mighty Rio Grande begins its long journey to the Gulf of Mexico high in the San Juan. Look for good brown and rainbow trout fishing from Rio Grande Reservoir downstream to Del Norte. View an interactive map.

The Conejos River provides excellent fishing for wild brown and rainbow trout. View an interactive map.

Hunting: Rio Grande National Forest allows big game, small game and waterfowl hunting in Conejos Peak, Creede, and Saguache Districts. Six species of big game animals are hunted in the forest, including elk, mule, deer, pronghorn, antelope, black bear, bighorn sheep and mountain lion. Special permits are required (by drawing) to hunt cow elk, antelope and sheep. For more information contact the Area 17, WS Region Office. 719-587-6900, 722 South Road 1 East, Monte Vista, CO 81144.

There are many small game animals hunted in the forest, including, cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, blue grouse, white-tailed ptarmigan, dove, band-tailed pigeon, squirrel, turkey and pheasant. In addition, the San Luis Valley provides some of the best waterfowl hunting in the state, including puddle ducks, diving ducks and geese and swans.