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.
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.
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: $625
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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
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.
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.