Use neoprene chest high waders, boots with stream cleats and a wading staff. When to Fish Heavy runoff usually lasts until mid-June, so the river starts fishing very well when it is high and clearing.
Durango summers are warm and midday fishing is slow.
Things really pick up in the fall when browns are spawning. The Animas is also a good winter fishery with a surprising number of moderate days. Water temperature near 40 degrees usually means good fishing. From Lightner Creek to Purple Cliffs, artificial flies and lures only. You can actually fish out of some of the motels in town.