Colorado · Fishing
Fishing in Durango, Colorado
Durango sits at the edge of the San Juan National Forest with a mix of moving water and still water within a short drive, which means you're not locked into one style of fishing.
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Durango sits at the edge of the San Juan National Forest with a mix of moving water and still water within a short drive, which means you're not locked into one style of fishing. Junction Creek and Chris Park both offer river fishing on smaller mountain streams where reading the water matters more than casting distance. On the lake side, Haviland Lake is the most visited option in the area, with Shalona Lake and Pastorius Reservoir offering quieter alternatives if you want fewer people on the bank. Florida Campground rounds out the lake fishing options with overnight access built in. None of the waters on this list carry a gold-medal or wild-trout designation, so temper expectations accordingly — these are solid, accessible fisheries that reward patience and local knowledge rather than trophy hunting. Most are reachable without a high-clearance vehicle, which makes them practical for anglers who aren't also planning a backcountry expedition. If you're coming specifically for the fishing rather than treating it as a campsite bonus, Haviland Lake and Pastorius Reservoir give you the most room to work and the best odds of a productive morning without hiking in.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fishing is available near Durango — rivers or lakes?
Both. Junction Creek Campground and Chris Park are set up for river fishing on moving water, while Haviland Lake, Shalona Lake, Pastorius Reservoir, and the Florida Campground area are all lake or still-water fisheries. If you want to mix both styles in a single trip, Haviland Lake Campground puts you close to the lake while keeping you within driving range of the creek options.
Do I need a Colorado fishing license to fish these waters?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid Colorado fishing license for all the waters listed here, including Junction Creek, Haviland Lake, and Pastorius Reservoir. You can purchase one online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife before you arrive. Check the CPW regulations for any site-specific rules, particularly around bait restrictions on the creek fisheries.
What is the best time of day to fish at Haviland Lake or Pastorius Reservoir?
Early morning and the hour before sunset are consistently the most productive windows for still-water fishing in this region. Midday in summer tends to push fish deeper and slow surface activity considerably. If you're camping at Haviland Lake Campground, you're already positioned to hit the water at first light without a drive.
Are these fishing spots suitable for beginners or kids?
Haviland Lake and Shalona Lake are the most beginner-friendly options — flat banks, easy access, and no technical casting required. The river spots at Junction Creek and Chris Park involve reading current and working smaller pockets of water, which takes more skill and is better suited to anglers with some moving-water experience. Florida Campground's lake access is also manageable for families.
When does fishing season run in the Durango area, and are there any closures to know about?
Most of these waters are open year-round, but ice and road conditions can limit winter access to spots like Haviland Lake, which sits at higher elevation than Durango itself. Spring runoff — typically April through early June — can make river fishing at Junction Creek and Chris Park difficult due to high, turbid water. Late June through September and again in early fall are the most reliable windows across all seven locations.
