Telluride Outside Fly Fishing Report May 1, 2026

Chris Sommers May 4, 2026

Fishing Conditions

Fishing Report May 1, 2026
by Troy Youngfleish

San Miguel
The San Miguel is flowing at 91 cfs, clear and cool. Nighttime temperatures continue to fend off any runoff and preserve whatever snowpack we have. In fact, we added snowpack last week with a modest storm or two. Big stonefly nymphs trailing a Baetis or midge is the ticket, although trout are being caught throughout the watershed on a wide variety of subsurface flies. The fish will still be found in the slower, deeper water and should be fished slowly and thoroughly. We should start seeing some real caddis and Pteronarcys adults show up in the next few weeks.

Dolores

The gauge in the town of Dolores is reading 285 this afternoon. While still pushy, there is definitely an opportunity to wade most of the upper sections and get a small craft down the lower sections. Big stonefly nymphs and streamers should be your go to until the water warms up. The flows have been changing quite a bit based on both daytime and nighttime temps so best to check the USGS data before going.

Lower Gunnison

They have bumped the canyon flows to 463 cfs and combined with 209 cfs coming from the north fork, the lower is in great shape. It appears the higher and clearer flows from the canyon have offset the murky inflow from the north fork. Caddis, baetis, stoneflies and streamers are all in play. Throw some large streamers from the boat until you start seeing heads pop up and then pivot to a long leader and an adult baetis.

Trout Lake and Miramonte

Trout Lake is completely ice free and fishing great. Stripping larger nymphs and small buggers can be really effective as well as casting small dries to rising fish. Miramonte is starting to fish pretty well but make sure you get out early in the day before the spring winds arrive. Streamer fishing has been strong but streaky. We're still a few weeks away from consistent dry fly fishing.

Troy Youngfleish
Guide Service Manager