Ready to Book Your Trip?
Lower San Juan River trips are seasonal and flow-dependent, with availability varying throughout the year. For current conditions, trip timing, and to reserve your date, please call or text directly.
970-501-5355
Lower 9
San Juan River
8 Hour Float Trip
The Lower San Juan River, often called the Lower 9, offers a completely different experience from the crowded Quality Waters upstream. This 8-hour float trip floats through private, lightly pressured water where anglers can slow down, cover water, and fish without competition.
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Known for wild brown and rainbow trout, this stretch shines for hopper fishing, dry-dropper rigs, and streamers. Fish here are aggressive & opportunistic, making it an excellent option for anglers looking to target larger trout rather than pure numbers.
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If you’re looking to take a break from the technical tailwater scene, the Lower 9 delivers a memorable day on the river.
San Juan River Guided Fishing Details
1-2 Anglers: $600
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8 Hours of Guided Fly Fishing
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Fishing Guide: A skilled and knowledgeable guide who knows the San Juan River inside and out.
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Fly Fishing Gear: We provide rods, reels, and terminal tackle.
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Safety Equipment: Life jackets for float trips and other necessary safety gear.
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Enjoy a delicious riverside lunch to keep you energized throughout the day.
Brown Trout caught on the san juan river at navajo dam on a durango fly fishing guided fishing trip
Trout caught on the san juan river at navajo dam on a durango fly fishing guided fishing trip
Huge Rainbow Trout caught on the san juan river at navajo dam on a durango fly fishing guided fishing trip
Brown Trout caught on the san juan river at navajo dam on a durango fly fishing guided fishing trip
​Why Book a Guided Fly Fishing Trip with San Juan River Fly Fishing?
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Why Choose San Juan River Fly Fishing for Your Guided Trip?
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Benefit from over 20 years of local fly fishing expertise.
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Enjoy customized trips crafted for anglers at any level.
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Take in breathtaking views of the San Juan River, Navajo Dam, and the surrounding high desert.
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Experience a personalized, hands-on fishing trip that makes every minute on the water count.
What to Expect on a Lower River Float Trip
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A day on the Lower San Juan River (the Lower 9) is all about covering water, fishing relaxed, and targeting quality trout in a setting that sees far less pressure than the Quality Waters upstream. This is a float-only trip, running roughly nine miles from the Village of Navajo Dam to Hammond Tract, and limited to two anglers maximum. You’ll fish from a drift boat through mostly private water, giving trout more time to behave naturally and respond aggressively to well-presented flies.
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Expect a versatile day of fishing that can include hoppers, dry-dropper rigs, streamers, and nymphing when conditions call for it. Browns and rainbows here are opportunistic and often willing to move for a fly, especially compared to heavily pressured tailwater fish. If you’ve spent time on the Quality Waters, the Lower 9 offers a refreshing change of pace.
What to Bring on Your Guided Fishing Trip on the San Juan
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Fishing License: You will need a valid New Mexico fishing license. You can easily purchase one online.
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Clothing: Dress in layers, as New Mexico weather can be unpredictable. We recommend long-sleeve shirts, a hat, sunglasses, and a jacket in case the weather turns cool.
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Footwear: Be sure to wear sturdy footwear.
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Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the warmer months.
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Camera: You’ll want to capture the beauty of the river and your catches.
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Water and Snacks: While lunch and beverages are provided, it’s a good idea to bring extra water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
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Personal items: Bring any personal gear you need, such as medication, a camera, or a small day pack.
Book your guided winter fly fishing trip on the San Juan River today with San Juan River Fly Fishing Guides and experience world-class trout fishing in one of New Mexico's most scenic areas. Whether you choose to float or wade, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of this iconic river.