Cutthroat in The Dunes
Welcome to Great Sand Dunes National Park. Where Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout found
Fly fishing Rio Grande cutthroat trout at Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Starting my journey to complete the Rio Grande Cutthroat trout portion of the Western Heritage Trout Challenge in Southern Colorado has been an exciting adventure. Nestled against the majestic Sangre de Cristo mountain range in the expansive San Luis Valley of Colorado lies the awe-inspiring Great Sand Dunes National Park. Although it’s not very well-known or heavily fished, this area is home to the elusive Rio Grande Cutthroat trout. Having been enrolled (though rarely attending class) at Adams State College in nearby Alamosa back in the early ’90s, I was somewhat familiar with "the Dunes." I had heard of the creek that winds along the eastern side of the sand dunes but had no idea at the time that it supported a population of fish waiting to be caught.
The evening before my trip, I dedicated time to thorough research. I started by stopping at Conejos River Fly Shop to pick up locally tied flies and have a one-on-one conversation with the owner about the best techniques for fishing this area. I then consulted the TroutRoutesApp (Pro Version) to gain a deeper understanding of Madano Creek and another nearby creek, helping me plan my approach. To be absolutely certain, I also used the OnX App (Pro Version) for the latest land data and backroad details, ensuring I could navigate the area safely. With everything carefully planned, all was set for the next day’s excursion.
Arriving at the park just as dawn broke, I was filled with eager anticipation of landing my first Rio Grande Cutthroat trout. The drive along the trail towards the creek warning sign felt somewhat ominous, and the signage was clear: take heed!
Heed The Warning Sign! This is not a suggestion.
There are many creek crossings along Madano Creek, with abundant spots suitable for camping and fishing. I made my way about four miles up the canyon, where the road gradually became more rugged and challenging to drive. Eventually, I came upon a beautiful meadow dotted with scattered ponds—a promising place to try my luck and connect with the wild beauty of this less-explored angling destination.
Upper Medano Creek
Pull-out and camping spot on Upper Medano Creek
Scouting along the winding creek, Rio Grandes swam and rose everywhere, their movements lively and constant. I quickly grabbed my rod, carefully tied on a small Caddis fly, and crept low and quietly toward the first promising pool. Just as I began to cast, a game warden appeared unexpectedly, taking a moment to admire my focused approach and generously offering valuable tips on tougher stretches that lay ahead. After exchanging polite goodbyes, I returned my attention to fishing; the first Cutthroat trout gently sipped the fly but managed to slip free. Not long after, a feisty 9-inch Rio Grande Cutthroat was securely hooked. Casting with patience and persistence—about every ten attempts—I caught several more 9-inch Cutthroats. Hours slipped by as I steadily hiked upstream, navigating through thick willows and muddy bogs.
My first Rio Grande Cutty caught on Medano Creek
Cookie Cutter Cutthroat on Medano Creek
Near sunset, at Medrano Creek’s last crossing, a sudden realization struck me: I’d been fishing in the Wilderness area, not inside the official boundaries of the National Park. To document a Rio Grande Cutthroat caught within the Park itself, I made my way to the Great Sand Dunes section. As dusk softly settled, I found a small clearing and delivered a perfect Bow and Arrow cast. A trout lunged aggressively, and in that moment, I knew I had met my goal, successfully adding another species to the Western Trout Heritage challenge.
My True Rio Grande In GSD NP
As I drove away, feeling genuinely honest and satisfied with myself about catching a Rio Grande in the GSD National Park, I was unexpectedly greeted by a stunning Mule Deer standing gracefully nearby. To make the moment even more remarkable, the most spectacular sunset I’ve witnessed in many years unfolded before my eyes. The vibrant and rich colors stretched widely across the sky, painting a breathtaking and almost otherworldly scene that felt truly magical. In that quiet, awe-inspiring moment, I felt deeply that my Higher Power had graced me with an epic day—one filled with unforgettable memories, profound gratitude, and a sense of peace that I will cherish forever.
Great Sand Dunes Sunset in October
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog about the Rio Grande Cutthroat trout in Great Sand Dunes National Park. To complement the article, I have also included an accompanying YouTube video for you to enjoy.
Also, I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the area, along with a selection of useful products that could enhance your experience and help you make the most of your own adventures at Great Sand Dunes National Park.
San Luis Valley Accommodations
4wt rod,leader,tippet,flyrecommendations
sunblock,bear spray, hat,sunglasses
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