Colorado’s Hidden Gem: The Rio Grande on the Fly
Presley Garcia
Fly Fisher, Guide, Fly Tier
★ ★ ★ ★ ★Tucked away in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, the Rio Grande River winds through the breathtaking San Luis Valley—and with it, some of the finest fly fishing you've never heard of. Guide Presley Garcia takes anglers on unforgettable floats in search of wild brown and rainbow trout, surrounded by stunning high-country scenery. Join us as Presley shares his knowledge of this hidden gem, revealing the tactics, timing, and magic that make the Rio Grande a must-fish destination.
- What makes the Rio Grande in Colorado such a special place to fly fish for trout?
- Can you describe the different sections of the Rio Grande that you guide—upper, middle, and lower—and how each one fishes?
- How does the Rio Grande differ from more popular Colorado rivers like the Arkansas or the Gunnison?
- What kind of access is available for DIY anglers, and how important is a boat for covering water?
- Are there areas on the Rio Grande that you can walk and wade fish?
- What’s your favorite season to fish the Rio Grande, and why?
- What are the most significant insect hatches anglers should look out for on the Rio Grande?
- How does the fishing change from spring to fall on the Rio?
- Can you talk about the famous salmonfly hatch—when it happens and how to fish it?
- How do you manage drifts and casting angles when fishing from a raft or drift boat on this river?
- When streamer fishing from a boat, what techniques do you teach your clients for covering structure?
- How do trout position themselves during different flow conditions or times of day?
- What challenges do anglers typically face when fishing the Rio Grande for the first time?
- What’s one of your most memorable days guiding on the Rio Grande?
