Taylor River
CO
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River
About Taylor River
The Taylor River, located outside of Gunnison, Colorado, offers a diverse high-mountain fly fishing experience. Above Taylor Reservoir, feeder creeks and beaver ponds are home to brook trout, while the tailwater section below the dam, flowing through granite canyons, is renowned for large rainbows and cutthroat. Significant hatches on the Taylor River include Gray Drakes, Blue Wing Olives (BWO's), and Caddis flies. The tailwater is catch-and-release only with artificial flies and lures, while other sections follow standard Colorado regulations. Anglers typically use a 9-ft, 5-wt rod, and should be prepared for challenging wading in the canyons, with accessible fishing areas found along USFS Road 742. The upper tailwater, by the bridge, can hold large fish, but be prepared for combat fishing in that location. You will have more solidarity downriver, but keep your eyes peeled for private water boundary.
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Rainbow Trout
Brook Trout
Regulations
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Fly Fishing Only: This water is restricted to fly fishing gear. No spinning or bait-casting equipment permitted.
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Catch & Release: All fish must be immediately released. Handle with care using barbless hooks.
Fishing Styles
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.
Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System
Methods
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Wade Friendly
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Float Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Forest Service
Private No Access
Regulations
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Fly Fishing Only: This water is restricted to fly fishing gear. No spinning or bait-casting equipment permitted.
•
Catch & Release: All fish must be immediately released. Handle with care using barbless hooks.
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during spring and summer. Check water conditions before heading out.
See what insects are emerging on Taylor River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.