Anglers looking for picturesque solitude should look no further than the Creede and South Fork area.

The mighty Rio Grande, heading west from its headwaters just north of Creede, winds through the area creating easy, accessible fishing spots for just about every type of angler. The river and its tributaries offer everything from small rushing streams to wide, lazy flats filled with lots of brown, rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout. And the section of Rio Grande running from South Fork to Del Norte is designated Gold Medal waters.

The best time to fish is from June to October; anyone interested in floating the river should try to come between mid- to late- June and late-July for the best spring run-off.

Some of the best spots to try:

1. Rio Grande - Float fishers can launch their boats from several areas along the river from Creede all the way to South Fork. Plan on catching plenty of brown trout, mostly in the 12 to 14-inch range, and a few rainbows.
2. Miners Creek - The town of Creede was founded along Miners Creek's banks after prospectors found silver ore while panning in the creek's waters. Decades of mining have largely depleted the ore deposits, but anglers can still find a rich supply of trout - especially in the creek's upper two-thirds. Hike Miners Creek trail to reach the best parts.
3. Willow Creek - Another creek located near Creede's historic old silver mines, the upper ends of the creek's west and east forks offer small to medium brook trout.
4. South Fork of the Rio Grande - This mellow section of the river is great for stream and bank fishing as well as wading. Count on finding plenty of brown and rainbow trout, along with a few brooks.
5. Goose Creek - Located along Goose Creek Trail, this section of water is known as one of the best small stream fisheries in the area. Many areas of the creek are private, though, so watch out for trespassing signs.