Gunnison River

Gunnison River

CO

River

About Gunnison River

The Gunnison River in southwestern Colorado offers a premier fly fishing experience, renowned for its large brown and rainbow trout, and considered one of the finest fisheries in the continental United States. Designated as wild trout and Gold Medal water in its upper sections, this river, a major tributary of the Colorado River, boasts a diverse fishery with brook trout, cutbow, cutthroat trout, mackinaw, rainbow trout, and tiger trout. Significant hatches include Blue-winged Olives, Caddisflies, Western March Browns, Pale Morning Duns, Green Drakes, Red Quills, Stoneflies, Yellow Sallies, and Great Gray Spotted Wing Sedges, providing excellent opportunities for dry fly and nymphing. The river varies greatly in width, with the Gunnison Gorge offering exceptional fishing within steep canyon walls, accessible by wading in many areas, though drift boats are preferable during high water.

Access

Easy AccessRemote

Seasons

Year RoundSpringSummerFallWinter

Terrain

CanyonNational ParkGorge

Water

FreestoneLarge River

Fish Species

Brown Trout

Rainbow Trout

Kokanee salmon

Brook Trout

Cutthroat

Fishing Styles

Dry FlyNymphing

undefined USGS Water Conditions

Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.

Methods

Wade Friendly

Float Friendly

Land Ownership

National Park

Public Blm

Quick Actions

Location

Trip Planning

Best fishing typically occurs during year round and spring. Check water conditions before heading out.

For more insight on the conditions, including hatches and water temperatures, check out the Hatch Forecast.