All Are Welcomed
The Colorado iFishiBelong fishing weekend is open to everyone, not just women or fly-fishing enthusiasts. The iFishiBelong mission is to advocate for all species, fishing techniques, and people, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated and discrimination is not tolerated.
iFishiBelong’s fishing events allow attendees to explore, engage in DIY fishing, and participate in social gatherings. These events also serve as a platform to highlight local businesses and guides, building community and support.
Collaborations
iFishiBelong has prepared an event checklist containing links to all necessary items. This checklist will help ensure everyone is well-prepared and informed for the event. Print the checklist HERE.
Weekend Logistics
Thank you for registering for Colorado iFishiBelong fishing weekend. This is an inclusive event where like-minded individuals can connect, empower each other, and have fun. The registration fee is instrumental in offsetting the costs associated with travel logistics, online platforms, the extensive hours dedicated to research, meticulous preparation, and the ongoing correspondence that happens behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Participants head out to fish on their own each day, with a variety of accommodation options to choose from. The event occurs in Durango Colorado from July 10th to 14th, 2025. ** This webpage is a dynamic document, and we’ll continue to update it with additional useful links and information in the coming months. **
Event Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the Colorado Facebook Group as most of your questions will answered. Otherwise email [email protected].
Facebook Group
Join the Facebook Group to network with fellow attendees, seek advice, and exchange travel and event photos/videos. Co-hosts will share further event details there. Join the Facebook Group HERE.
WhatsApp Group
New this year, we’re created a WhatsApp group for each DIY fishing event. The Colorado DIY Fishing Logistics WhatsApp group is strictly for sharing daily updates, important event information, and handling urgent logistics or emergencies throughout the weekend. Please use the official iFishiBelong Colorado Facebook Group for all personal messages or general discussions.
Join HERE.
Q&A Session
Watch the 5/20/25 Recorded Q&A Session HERE.
Dates
July 10th – 14th, 2025
Check-In Time
For camping, check in to the Chris Park Group Campsite after 2:00 pm on Thursday, 7/10/25, or anytime through Sunday, 7/13/25. Refer to the weekend schedule for additional meet-up times. Register for camping HERE.
Location
This event will be held in and around Durango Colorado. The social activities during the Colorado iFishiBelong DIY Fishing weekend will primarily take place at the Chris Park Group campsite pavilion. There is cell phone coverage in Durango but could be spotty in the outlying areas.
- Durango Colorado
- Campground – Chris Park Group Campsite
- Friday Social DIY Fish – Rotary Park
- Friday Lunch – Famburger Durango
Collaborations
What's Included
Thank you once again for registering for the 2025 Colorado iFishiBelong fishing weekend. Below is a breakdown of what is included and what the registration fee covers.
- This exclusive webpage is Established Specifically for Registered Colorado Participants.
- It includes event logistics, packing tips, fishing details, etc.
- iFishiBelong Cling Magnet ($20 Value)
- Interactive Live Q&A Session on 5/20/25 at 6 pm MT. Register HERE.
- Online Access to the “Summer Trout Fishing Techniques” Pre-Recorded Course ($25 Value)
- 2hr Donation-Based “Leader Set-Ups and Fishing Techniques for the Colorado High Country and Animas River” Workshop on 7/10/25. Register HERE.
- Friday Social Fishing Day on the Animas with Permit at Rotary Park Obtained
- Nightly Social Events
- Location & Fishing Research Compiled for Easy Participant Reference
- Dedicated Co-Hosts Focusing on Education, Community, Fun
- Commitment to Support Local Businesses and Highlight Women and Underrepresented Owners and Guides in the Region
Tentative Weekend Schedule
Each day is centered on fishing adventures, concluding with evening social time. We urge individuals to engage with each other in the Facebook Group to form fishing friendships and coordinate weekend adventures. We will send a logistics text via the Colorado WhatsApp Group each morning.
- Thursday, 7/10/25 – Arrive and DIY Fish or Workshop
- 2:00 pm – Check Into Chris Park Group Campsite #3
- 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm – 2hr Donation-Based ” Leader Set-Ups and Fishing Techniques for the Colorado High Country and Animas River” workshop available to everyone who registered.
- Register HERE
- The workshop location is at the Chris Park Group Campsite #3 Pavilion
- Evening – Registration Packet Pick-Up and Social Time at the Chris Park Group Campsite #3
- Friday, 7/11/25 – DIY Fish, Social Fishing, and Evening Time
- 8:00 am to 9:00 am – Registration Packet Pick-Up at Rotary Park in Durango
- 8:00 am to 11:30 am – Social Fishing on the Animas River
- Meet at Rotary Park in Durango
- 12:00 pm – Lunch at Famburger Durango
- 1400 E 2nd Ave, Durango, Colorado 81301
- Evening – Registration Packet Pick-Up and Social Time at the Chris Park Group Campsite #3 Pavilion
- Saturday, 7/12/25 – DIY Fishing and Exploring
- Evening – Registration Packet Pick-Up and Social Time at the Chris Park Group Campsite #3
- Sunday, 7/13/25 – DIY Fishing and Exploring
- Monday, 7/14/25 – DIY Fishing and Depart
- 12:00 pm – Check Out of Chris Park Group Campsite #3
Friday Social Fishing Day
We have paid for permit to host a social fishing morning at Rotary Park in Durango Colorado. Come and go as you’d like fishing the famous Animas River from 9am to 1pm. We’re planning on eating lunch after fishing at Famburger. Further details about the Friday social fishing day will be provided during the Live Q&A session.
Camping
We have reserved a group camp site just outside of Durango for us to all gather and have social evenings. We have room for tents, RV sites with 8 spots with full power hook-ups. Register HERE.
There are also many private campground options and other San Juan National Forest campgrounds nearby. Many campgrounds fill up early as they are on a reservation system.
Lodging
If camping isn’t your preference, there are alternative lodging choices available. We suggest booking accommodation in Durango Colorado. Secure your lodging now, as availability is limited and spaces are expected to fill up rapidly. Need help with lodging? Click HERE.
Food
You’re in charge of your meals. There are several grocery stores in the area. Durango, Colorado, is home to a world-class culinary and beverage culture! Explore the international dining scene with various options from around the globe. Sample craft cocktails at one of the many bars throughout town or sample local spirits made with pure snowmelt from nearby distilleries. Go to Visit Durango HERE for some dining options.
Education Opportunites
- Engage on Facebook:
- Join the Colorado iFiB Facebook Group.
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer the questions.
- Live Q&A Session on 5/20/25 at 6pm MT
- Watch the 5/20/25 Recorded Q&A Session HERE.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity: Register HERE.
- Participate in the Donation-Based “Leader Set-Ups and Fishing Techniques for the Colorado High Country and Animas River” Workshop.
- Duration: 2 hours
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
2-hr Donation Based Education
** Note: Registration for the Colorado event is required. **
We’ve reviewed the 2024 survey results and understand that attendees of the DIY Fishing events are looking for more hands-on education. In response, we’re excited to offer a 2-hour, donation-based workshop titled “Leader Set-Ups and Fishing Techniques for the Colorado High Country and Animas River”. This session will provide essential skills through interactive, hands-on learning.
Connect with a Women's Group
Area Resources
iFishiBelong has initiated research on your behalf and compiled various area resource links pertaining to Durango, Colorado, for you to explore prior to your trip.
- Visit Durango CO
- Visit Silverton Colorado
- Visit Ouray
Fishing
There are many diverse fishing opportunities in and near Durango, Colorado. From high country creeks to the Town Run of the Animas River to small and large reservoirs and lakes, fishing opportunities for anglers of all types abound. We recommend you do your homework ahead of time and also tune in to our Q&A for more information.
DIY Fishing Resources
Water Safety
July is monsoon season. Consider starting early, watching the weather forecast closely and finishing up prior to monsoonal thunderstorms. Beware of potential flash flooding, and know what to do if caught out side in a storm.
Fishing License
All anglers over 16 years old must purchase a fishing license. Purchase HERE.
Fishing in New Mexico –
The San Juan River Quality Waters is located 1-1/2 hours southeast of Durango. Also, Navajo Lake is located in both Colorado and New Mexico. Learn more about purchasing a New Mexico Fishing License HERE.
Tribal Fishing Permits –
A tribal fishing permit is required for fishing or boating access for designated waters of the Southern Ute Reservation. Read More HERE.
Fish Species
Brook Trout
Brown Trout
Cutthroat
Rainbow
hire a Fishing Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. In our commitment to showcasing local businesses and guides, we’re pleased to provide a list of area guides who have registered on the Fish and Hang website, demonstrating their support and alignment with the iFishiBelong mission.
San Juan River –
Local Fisheries
Many, many diverse fishing opportunities in and near Durango Colorado exist. From high country creeks, to the Town Run of the Animas River, to small and large reservoirs and lakes, fishing opportunities for anglers of all types abound. We recommend you do your homework ahead of time and also tune in to our Q&A for more information. Here are some of the most iconic fishing opportunities near Durango:
High Country:
- Hermosa Creek (Colorado River Cutthroat Trout CRCT)
- Cascade Creek (Brook Trout)
- Lime Creek (CRCT and Brook Trout)
- South Mineral Creek (Brook Trout and the occasional rainbow)
- Upper Animas River (Brook Trout and the occasional Rainbow)
Lakes:
- Haviland Lake (Rainbow)
- Andrews Lake (Rainbow)
- Molas Lake (Rainbow)
- Vallecito Lake (Rainbow, Pike, Walleye)
- Lemon Reservoir ( Rainbow, Brown)
- Lake Navajo (Rainbow, Brown Trout, Pike, Bass, Carp)
Rivers:
- Animas River (Rainbow, Browns, Cuttbow)
- Florida River, Pine River
- Much of these Rivers are in private ownership. Local fly shops have access to specific areas which often offer excellent guided fishing opportunities. Contact San Juan Angler or Duranglers for specific details.
Clothing
- Most anglers will be wet wading during this event.
- Rubber boots, with or without studs, are recommended.
- Sun shirts with a Buff or neck tube is recommended.
- Everyone should have a pair of polarized sunglasses for eye protection and to see fish and your obstacles under water.
- It’s always recommended to bring a rain jacket.
- Wading Staff
- Fly Rods – 3wt – 5wt.
- Rod Length – Average 9’.
- Fly Lines – Typical Floating Fly Lines
- Leader – 9’- 12′ 4x – 7x
- Tippet Spools – 4x – 7x
Borrow Equipment
Each angler is expected to bring their own equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by July 2nd, 2025 if you wish to borrow equipment.
Fly Suggestions
- Dry Flies
- Blue Wing Olive (Selection Of)
- Elk Hair Caddis
- Foam Wing Parachute Trico
- Green Drake
- Parachute Adams
- Nymphs
- Brassie
- Bubble Midge
- Copper John
- Hares Ear
- Lightning Bug
- Mercury Midge
- Mercury Baetis
- Pheasant Tail Nymph
- Pheasant Tail Flashback
- Psycho Prince Nymph
- Rainbow Warrior
- RS2 Emerger
- Smokejumper
- UV Sprakle Midge Emerger
- WD-40
- Zebra Midge
- Streamers
- Woolly Bugger
Durango Colorado Hatch Chart
Leader Examples
Safety & Wellness
For the safety of all, if you show any signs of illness or have a positive covid test result, kindly remain at home. Stay informed about the weather, dress for the occasion, and stay alert to any shifts in water conditions. Beware aware that many locations have spotty or nonexistent cell service.
- Emergency/Urgent Care Facilities –
- Pet Hospitals
Weekend Disclaimer
We aim for a memorable weekend, emphasizing community for everyone present. Educational resources will be available, and connections among anglers encouraged. We expect a drama-free setting and clarify that while co-hosts will be around, the weekend is self-guided. Attendees can coordinate fishing plans via the Facebook Group. This is not an exclusive women’s weekend. Partners, friends, and family are encouraged to join.
Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the Colorado Facebook Group as most of your questions will answered. Otherwise email [email protected].
