Gunnison River Fly Fishing: The Angler’s Guide
The Gunnison River, affectionately known as “The Gunny,” is one of Colorado’s premier fly fishing destinations, offering anglers vast public access and several pristine wilderness sections packed with world-class trout waters, diverse fish species, and breathtaking canyon landscapes. Whether you’re hiking into the rugged Black Canyon, floating the remote Gunnison Gorge, or wading the riffles near Almont, Gunnison River fly fishing offers unmatched variety and reward.
This guide compiles an overview of all the facets you need to know for a successful Gunnison River fly fishing adventure. While no guide can replace time on the water, we cover everything from river sections, seasonal strategies, gear recommendations , access details, regulations, and conservation tips.
Understanding the Gunnison River: Key Sections Explained
Flowing 180 miles through western Colorado, the Gunnison River is broken into several distinct sections, each with its own unique characteristics. Anglers will find two primary stretches designated as Gold Medal Waters: the 12-mile section from Almont to Gunnison and the 27-mile stretch from Crystal Dam downstream to the North Fork confluence.
These renowned waters flank three major reservoirs. Blue Mesa, Morrow Point, and Crystal Dam which are divided into four main sections for anglers:
Upper Gunnison River (Almont to Blue Mesa Reservoir)
Located upstream of Blue Mesa Reservoir, the Upper Gunnison and its tributaries (East River, Taylor River, Lake Fork) offer ideal wade and float fishing opportunities with consistent summer hatches. Rainbow, brown, and the occasional cutthroat trout rise eagerly to dry flies like Elk Hair Caddis and PMDs in riffle-run-pool sections. With the seasonal Kokanee Salmon during the fall run.
Why fish here? It’s a great entry point into the upper Gunnison system with excellent water clarity, moderate river flows, and easy road access. Perfect for learning new techniques or just enjoying a relaxing day on the water.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and East Portal
This awe-inspiring canyon is defined by sheer granite cliffs and technical access. Hikes into the inner canyon are steep and demanding, best suited for experienced anglers but rewarded with rarely pressured and home to some of the river’s largest wild trout. East Portal Road offers the only paved vehicle access to a limited stretch near Crystal Dam (note: the road is closed in winter, opening time varies each year and is off-limits to vehicles over 22 feet). Guided fishing trips are not permitted in the Black Canyon. So, if you have a guide or outfitter offer you this trip here, they are operating illegally.
Why hike in? The rewards are huge. Solitude, trophy trout, and unspoiled water await. But you’ll need to be highly prepared with backcountry permits, strong legs, and careful packing in this physically demanding location. Being realistic about your abilities and backcountry understanding are essential. Learn more about access and camping: Black Canyon National Park Access Info.
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (NCA) – Wilderness Section
The Gunnison Gorge is located northwest of the Black Canyon National Park and often considered the crown jewel of Gunnison River fly fishing. The Gunnison Gorge NCA features dramatic cliffs, diverse aquatic habitats, and epic float fishing opportunities. Reaching the river involves traversing dirt roads that require high clearance 4×4 vehicles, with roads terminating at single-track trailheads leading to this remote wilderness experience. Float trips are typically guided due to technical Class III-IV rapids, and specialized equipment for the required horse pack to the riverside boat launch, and only one take-out point 14.5 miles downriver.
Here are the primary trails that provide access to the river:
Chukar Trail: The main entry point for river trips, with the only boat launch. Limited access for walk wade fishing here, due to steep canyon walls preventing passage.
Bobcat Trail: A steep, rugged 1-mile trail with an 800-foot drop, requiring basic rock climbing skills to navigate to the river.
Duncan Trail: A very steep 1.5-mile trail with loose scree and an 840-foot drop.
Ute Trail: The furthest downstream, offering a more gradual 4.5-mile hike.
Why float the gorge? The gorge offers 14.5 miles of Gold Medal water with breathtaking scenery and varied water types—riffles, pocket water and deep pools perfect for dry-dropper or streamer tactics (and technical rapids). Many sections are only accessible by raft or through guided float trips, making the experience of an expertly guided journey even more valuable.
Explore access and trail info here: BLM Gunnison Gorge Access Map
Lower Gunnison River
While the Lower Gunnison River begins below the final of three dams on the Gunnison River at Crystal Dam. This Lower Gunnison section is considered the Gunnison River below the confluence of the North Fork of the Gunnison and the third and final fishable section before it reaches Delta Colorado and the Escalante Dominguez Canyon National Conservations Area. At that point the river flows west, then gradually northwest, before meeting the Colorado River in Grand Junction.
Lower Gunnison River is well suited for drift boat fishing and walk wade access with fly fishing opportunities starting downstream from the Gunnison Gorge wilderness section. This 10+ mile, non-wilderness stretch of Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, features slightly warmer water, slower flows, and mixed-species fishing. Rainbow and brown trout remain the main targets, with flannelmouths suckers and native chub appearing lower in the river in late summer months.
Why float here? Ideal for those who want a less demanding, more laid-back float fishing experience with plenty of casting room and productive nymphing, streamer and dry fly hatches depending on the time of year.
Target Seasons for Gunnison River Fly Fishing
The Gunnison River fishes year-round, but each season brings unique fishing opportunities, hatch timing and considerations, often dictated by water or air temperature, river volume (CFS), and other intangibles like weather and time of year.
Early Spring (March – April)
Blue Winged Olives, Caddis and Midges: Early season brings warmer weather and limited hatches when conditions are right. Expect to see Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) and midges early in this season. Anglers should focus on lower elevations where water warms first, and while light remains low in the steeper canyons. Pre-runoff conditions can be ideal for nymphing, while warmer days offer early hatches. Thanks to controlled flows over this season, the later part of this season can experience strong caddis hatches and early stonefly nymph fishing before the madness of the Salmonfly Hatch begins. This pre-release period is a hidden gem, as guides and experienced anglers alike seek out these “fresh track” days for opportunities to target actively feeding trout after the dark cold winter months.
Late Spring, Early Summer (May-June)
The Hatch & Run-Off, two worlds collide! Sometime between late May and end of June, when air temperature and flows reach optimal levels, the emergence of several hatches happen all at once, including Salmon & Golden Stoneflies, Yellow Sallies, Caddis and PMD’s. Anglers flock to the Lower Gunnison River each year trying to time “the hatch “of the famous Salmonfly (Pteronarcys Californica) just right. Gunnison River fly fishing during this time can be most rewarding, if you hit it just right. However, while the popular Stonefly hatch window can draw crowds, it can also see variable water releases and runoff. Funny thing is the trout don’t mind these conditions and often the peak of the hatch happens over these variable periods of poor water clarity and fluctuation. Pre hatch nymph fishing should also not be overlooked, as the earlier parts of this season produce actively feeding fish and less volatile fluctuations in river conditions
Summer (July–August)
Terrestrials & Attractors: Dry-dropper season peaks as river flows stabilize and summer temperatures rise. Yellow sallies and PMD’s linger, while caddis, terrestrial and general attractor patterns take hold as the dry fly-friendly conditions, making this a productive time of year. Hopper fishing is at its peak during these months with large dry flies enticing big strikes near the riverbanks, plus nymphing deep, or in shallow well oxygenated waters can also produce.
Fall (September–October)
Streamers Fishing, Tricos and late Caddis: Cooler night temperatures and fewer crowds make late September and early October a hidden gem. Aggressive brown trout respond to streamers, while nymphing produces consistent action. Fall can offer some of the best nymph fishing, especially as the season creeps towards winter. Expect late caddis and Trico hatches in October.
Winter (November–February)
Midge and Baetis: Float fishing gets a break within the Gunnison Gorge over these months as bank fishing dwindles, waters cool, and trout hunker down. However, tactical anglers can still be successful with midge and baetis patterns in slower waters which can produce feeding on the lower river stretches via walk wading. Be prepared for potential icy banks and limited access.
Fishing Techniques:
Nymphing: Dead-drift under indicators or Euro-nymph tight-line setups.
Dry Fly: Match the hatch in summer or toss attractors near banks.
Dry-Dropper: Effective across all sections, especially during hopper seasons.
Streamers: Strip streamers through deep pools for fall browns.
RIGS Fly Shop specializes in hand picking flies based on your trips time of year and what’s happening based on reports from guides on the water that intimately know the resources.
Check year-to-year updates: Gunnison River Fishing Report
Fish Species of the Gunnison River
Fly anglers targeting the Gunnison can expect diverse and healthy fish populations:
Rainbow Trout – Active in all sections, especially during spring and summer hatches.
Brown Trout – Common throughout; aggressive in fall and great for streamer action.
Cutthroat Trout – Found mostly in the Upper Gunnison and tributaries.
Kokanee Salmon – Run in the fall from Blue Mesa Reservoir into the Upper Gunnison River.
Flannelmouth Suckers and Native Chub – Found on the Lower Gunnison (North Fork to Delta) mostly in summer months when water is water.
Essential Gear for Gunnison River Fly Fishing
Having the right gear is key to success on the Gunnison River. With 20 plus years as a trusted retailer and outfitting this river we know that proper equipment and knowledge will improve your experience.
If you need help picking the right gear, we are here to make every customer’s trip successful by honing gear to fit your needs.
Fly Rod Recommendations
5- to 7-weight, 9’ to 10’6” fast-action rods (6 wt. preferred) with long-tapper weight-forward floating fly lines (easier mending) are perfect for most casting situations. Faster action, more powerful and longer fly rods propel larger rigs, achieving precision and the ability to mend fly lines at a distance. Fighting butts on rods can also offer additional power and leverage for handling larger-sized and harder-fighting trout famous in these sections.
Fly Reels and Line Setup
Choose a large arbor reel with a powerful drag system to handle the strong and aggressive fighting trout the Gunnison River is known for. A weight-forward floating line is best for dry flies and nymphing, while a sink-tip line helps get streamers down in deeper runs in the late season. Use at least 100 yards of 20-pound backing for aggressive trout behavior.
Leader and Tippet Setup
Anglers typically use 4x to 2x leaders and tippets. Opt for longer, lighter leaders for smaller dry flies and shorter, heavier leaders for dry-dropper rigs and streamer fishing. Fish here are generally not overly “leader shy,” so fluorocarbon leaders and tippets aren’t necessary. Be prepared to fish with a heavier leader and tippet than you may use back home.
Accessories & Apparel
Essentials like Fly Agra, dry-shake, floatant, nippers, sturdy hemostats, sun protection, and rain gear are items you cannot be without. Colorado is the land of extremes so always prepare for anything. As seasons, weather and time of day change, your layering and gear needs to change with it. Summer brings wet wading but storms can roll in and temperatures drop by 20 degrees. In shoulder seasons, pant waders with a rain jacket are essential on float trips. Once the sun goes down, go can see temperature shifts during most of the year. Be prepared with a lightweight fleece or puffy jacket depending on the season.
Flies
The right flies at the right time can change your trip from challenging to successful. At RIGS we have spent over 20 years curating our fly selection to meet the needs of our region and fit the hatches for Gunnison River fly fishing. We offer handpicked fly selection and on the water real time guide knowledge of fishing conditions dictates every box we put together.
Gunnison River Fly Fishing Regulations and Conservation
Following local regulations and practicing conservation are essential for preserving the Gunnison River’s thriving fishery.
A Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 or older. Licenses are available online at authorized retailers, or at our fly shop in Ridgway. In addition to a standard license, some sections, such as the Gunnison Gorge and Black Canyon National Park, may require special permits due to limited access and protected status. Anglers should review area-specific regulations before heading out.
Regulations vary depending on the specific stretches of the Gunnison River. Some have stricter rules to protect fish populations or riverbanks. In designated Gold Medal Waters, anglers catch-and-release-only requirements and rules exist, allowing only artificial flies and lures. Some areas also require barbless hooks to reduce injury to fish. Checking the latest Colorado Parks and Wildlife brochure or with a local fly shop for regulations is crucial before fishing these sections. Things like additional permits, sign-in requirements and more may be necessary for the Gunnison Gorge and Black Canyon due to their protected status.
Practicing proper catch-and-release methods helps protect the river’s fish. Using barbless hooks makes removal easier and minimizes sometimes damage. Keeping fish in the water as much as possible reduces stress, and when handling fish, wetting your hands helps protect their slime coating. A rubber mesh net is recommended to prevent gill damage. After landing a fish, keep it in the water, hold it gently in the water, facing upstream, until it swims away on its own. Pay attention to air and water temperatures to ensure you are not over stressing already stressed fish.
Conservation efforts along the Gunnison River have helped maintain its excellent fishing conditions by following the rules of the river. Anglers can also contribute by sticking to designated trails to prevent erosion, avoiding wading through shallow spawning beds (redds), and follow “Leave No Trace” practices by packing out all trash, tippet, wrappers, etc.; including human waste in designated wilderness sections.
Etiquette may be a long lost practice in our modern life but on the river it is essential to know the rules of the river to have a good time. Respecting other anglers and giving them space on the water also supports a positive fishing environment. Always be considerate of those around you by giving ample space, especially in crowded areas, so everyone can fish comfortably. Remember that those already on the water or setting up have the right of way. Be mindful of your movements and keep noise to a minimum, as fish are easily startled by sudden disturbances. Avoid casting over or near other anglers and keep your voice down to maintain a peaceful environment. Lastly, don’t be a “hole hog”; share prime fishing spots and avoid occupying them for too long so others can enjoy them as well.
Tips for Planning Your Gunnison River Adventure
The Gunnison River offers exceptional fly fishing opportunities, but success requires thoughtful preparation and the right techniques. Understanding the river’s unique sections, targeting fish based on seasonal patterns, and using effective methods and tactics are essential. Equipping yourself with the right gear, respecting regulations and others on the river, and practicing conservation ensures a positive impact on the fishery while improving your chances of landing memorable catches.
RIGS Fly Shop and Guide Service – A Local Expert for Gunnison River Anglers
Since 2001, RIGS has been a trusted resource for Gunnison River anglers. Every customer deserves knowledgeable staff and guides with an intimate knowledge of the resources and rivers you want to fish. Our experienced guides specialize in fishing the Gunnison River’s key areas, including the Gunnison Gorge and Lower Gunnison. Whether you prefer to walk wade or float fish, are a seasoned angler or new to the sport, RIGS offers customized gear, advice and trips tailored to your goals.
RIGS offers our unforgettable 3-Day Deluxe float trip through the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Wilderness for those looking for an all inclusive package. For passionate anglers looking to expand their knowledge or learn how to make that passion a career, our experienced guides and instructors can help you build your techniques and skills in a guide course or clinic. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to fish in one of Colorado’s premier rivers. To ensure a rewarding fishing experience, start with one of our guided trips, or expert advice with gear rentals for Gunnison river fly fishing. In addition to guided services, we offer a well-stocked inventory of gear, flies, and accessories designed for local conditions. Our staff provides up-to-date fishing reports, ensuring anglers are prepared for current hatches, water conditions, and effective fly fishing tactics.
Understanding River Conditions
River flows on the Gunnison can vary significantly due to runoff, dam releases, and weather conditions. Spring runoff often causes higher water levels, particularly in the Upper Gunnison and Lower Gunnison, where melting snow from the surrounding mountains increases flows(CFS). Meanwhile, the stretch from East Portal to the confluence of the North Fork can experience sudden changes in water levels due to dam releases. These fluctuating conditions can impact fishing strategies, requiring anglers to adjust techniques based on water depth and clarity. By summer, water levels typically stabilize, providing ideal conditions for dry fly fishing. Checking resources like Colorado Parks and Wildlife and local fly shops such as RIGS Fly Shop for reel-time updates on flows, hatches, and recommended flies is essential for planning a successful trip.
Planning for Emergencies
Fishing remote sections like the Black Canyon National Park and the Gunnison Gorge require added precautions and permits. Prepare for all variations of weather. Cell service is limited in most areas, so consider carrying a satellite phone or GPS device for emergencies. Always inform someone of your fishing plans before heading out.
Camping Options and Access on the Gunnison River
For anglers and outdoor enthusiasts that are not doing a guided trip there a several camping options available for all sections of the Gunnison River.
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area Camping
Camping is available at most trailheads and designated river campsites on a first come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended during peak seasons. If these sites are full, consider dispersed camping on BLM-managed lands or nearby campgrounds like Ridgway State Park. Camping permits can be purchased at wilderness trailheads (cash or check only). Campfires are prohibited – use only stoves, grills, or firepans with charcoal. All trash, including ashes, must be packed out, and an EPA-approved waste system is required for human waste. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed and under control.
Black Canyon National Park Camping
Camping is available at two campgrounds on each rim and the East Portal Campground within Curecanti National Recreation Area. Wilderness camping is allowed with a Wilderness Use Permit. Camping is restricted to designated campgrounds, and reservations through recreation.gov are recommended. Limited first-come, first-served sites are also available.
Upper Gunnison River
For camping along the Upper Gunnison River in Colorado, anglers can choose from several options. Almont Campground offers walk-in access to Almont Gorge and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Lakeview Campground, overlooking Taylor Park Reservoir and the Sawatch Mountains, provides both electric and non-electric sites with nearby fishing, boating, and trail access. Rivers End Campground, also near the Taylor reservoir as well as numerous campgrounds along the Taylor River (USFS and pay to camp). Mesa Campground, located right next to Blue Mesa Reservoir, features full hookups, pet-friendly amenities, and easy access to the reservoir and river. Dispersed camping is also available throughout Gunnison National Forest for those seeking a more remote Gunnison River fly fishing experience.
Ready to Get Fishing?
From technical canyon waters to laid-back floats, Gunnison River fly fishing delivers adventure, beauty, and incredible trout action. With proper planning, the right gear, and respect for the river, you’ll create lasting memories on one of Colorado’s most iconic fly fishing destinations. Make sure to visit our Fish Report for the latest conditions and to check up on flows, weather, current fly patterns and rigging recommendations to ensure a successful trip.