With low water levels and water temperatures consistently rising near 71 degrees, on Monday Colorado Parks & Wildlife enacted voluntary afternoon fishing closures for the the San Juan River through Pagosa Springs, the Animas River through Durango, and the Dolores River below McPhee Dam.
These voluntary fishing closures will remain in place daily from noon to midnight. Signage has been posted along the rivers. CPW will notify the public when the closure is lifted.
“Voluntary fishing closures help protect the fish during periods of elevated stress associated with reduced oxygen levels experienced during warmer summer months,” said CPW aquatic biologist Kade Jackson. “When water temperatures are elevated, there is a decrease in oxygen making it more difficult for trout to recover after being caught, therefore increasing the likelihood of angling mortality.”
Because of low water levels and water temperatures reaching 71 degrees, effective July 13, 2026 there is a voluntary afternoon fishing closure on the San Juan River through Pagosa Springs from the Highway 160 & 84 intersection downstream to Yamaguichi Park. The closure will be in effect from noon to midnight each day until further notice.
During the warm summer months, rivers with unusually low flows can experience wide daily water temperature fluctuations, reaching their maximum temperatures in the late afternoon. By implementing a voluntary half-day closure rather than a full day, anglers can still enjoy time on the water in the morning when water temperatures are suitable without stressing fish in the afternoon.
As a reminder, access to the sport fishery on the Dolores below McPhee is restricted by closures related to the Ferris Fire.