The Cimarron River in Colorado is a pristine, crystal-clear waterway that flows through the Gunnison River Basin near Ouray, Ridgway, and Montrose in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. Often overlooked by anglers drawn to the more famous Gunnison, Taylor, and East rivers, the Cimarron offers exceptional fishing opportunities in a quieter, more serene setting. The river features three main forks that flow into Silver Jack Reservoir, with diverse fishing environments ranging from shallow freestone sections to deep pools. The Cimarron derives its name from the Spanish colonial Rios de Los Cameros Cimarron, which roughly translates to River of the Wild Sheep. What makes the Cimarron special is its combination of beautiful high mountain scenery, accessible fishing spots, and healthy populations of trout in an environment that offers the solitude many anglers seek.