Fly fishing is a distinct and ancient angling method first mentioned in Aelian's "Natural History" circa 200 A.D." as originating in Macedonia. There is was practiced with a 6 ft wooden pole, a 6 ft long piece of twine and a hook wrapped with a special red wool and 2 feathers from under a cock's wattles. (flyfishinghistory.com by Dr. Andrew N. Herd)

It most widely known as a method for catching Colorado trout. But it is employed today for a wide variety of species including pike, bass, panfish, carp, as well as marine species, such as redfish, snook, tarpon, bonefish and striped bass. Fly fishing involves using artificial flies made with natural fur, feathers, quill and manmade materials. For many anglers, fly fishing is an mystery and appears hard to do. Fly fishing is not too difficult to learn. But reading up on the sport and watching good fly fishing DVDs will also help you to learn quickly. Fishing with an experienced angler will shorten your learning curve dramatically.

Portions on the Conejos River are in the San Juan National Forest, or in the South San Juan Wilderness Area. Other easements have been provided on private land, in this portion of the state favored for summer cabins.

Conejos means 'rabbit' in Spanish - good question why anyone would ever name a river after these little hopping creatures. Regardless, it's a great area for fishing and enjoying scenery at the same time. You can angle for almost every type of trout in this river and see some gorgeous country at the same time.

6000 acre Platoro Reservoir near Platoro, Colorado has great fishing, camping, hiking, back packing canoeing and boating.

Investing in a day or a half day trip with an experienced guide is a good way to learn Conejos River waters. A qualified guide can teach you casting techniques, fly selection, stream entomology, how to chose the right gear and essential knots. It is important that you provide the guide all the information they need so that they will figure out what kind of trip is best for you. Whether you are fishing a new stream or just getting started in fly fishing, a knowledgeable guide can mean more than just a better chance to catch a fish. It is an opportunity to increase your fishing pleasure and reduce your learning curve.