The Animas River runs through town. Vallecito Lake lies in a steep and pristine valley northeast of Durango. And the San Juan, Piedra, and Dolores Rivers are all located within a short drive from Durango and boast some of the best fishing in Colorado and the U.S.

Treat yourself. For licenses, gear, guides, instruction and the inside skinny on the best holes, check out Anasazi Angler, Inc. (970-385-4665), Animas Valley Anglers, LLC (970-259-0484; http://www.gottrout.com) or the D Bar G Outfitters (970-385-6888; http://www.dbarg.com). There's also Duranglers, on Main Street in town (970-385-4081; http://www.duranglers.com). There are many more, but that should get you started, and give you an idea about how big a part fishing plays in these parts.