Abe's Motel & Fly Shop

Established in 1958, Abe's sits directly on the San Juan River below Navajo Dam, where stable water temperatures from the dam's deep-water releases create a year-round fishery. The motel offers 55+ rooms ranging from basic to comfortable, plus an RV park with full hookups (seasonal) and a full-service fly shop stocked with local patterns and gear. The San Juan is known for technical dry-fly fishing on midges and small insects, with spring and fall offering peak conditions and summer…

The San Juan River offers consistent, year-round fly fishing, a testament to the stable water temperatures released from Navajo Dam. Spring (March-May) sees fish actively feeding on midges and other insects as they move from winter holds. While comfortable temperatures prevail, be prepared for occasional snow and wind, and adapt to potentially discolored water during high flows or lake turnover. Summer (June-August) is the busiest season, with active fish feeding on a variety of insects including mayflies, caddis, scuds, and terrestrials. The "ant hatch," though not a true hatch, can provide phenomenal dry fly fishing for large trout. Be mindful of summer thunderstorms and lightning. Fall (September-November) is a favorite for many, offering spectacular scenery with the valley turning golden. Fishing continues with aggressive feeding on midges, annelids, scuds, terrestrials, and mayflies. Generally wadeable flows open up much of the river. Winter (December-February) fishing is a quieter affair, preferred by locals for its solitude. The consistent water temperature maintains fish and insect activity, though fish tend to congregate in slower water. Snowfall is usually short-lived, with sun quickly clearing roads. Adapting techniques to target slower water can lead to success.