Experience an adrenaline-fueled 6-hour float fly fishing trip on Colorado’s Uncompahgre River. Perfect for confident anglers seeking big waves and challenging white water, this adventure offers unforgettable river thrills and fishing moments.
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Difficulty
expert
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in strong physical condition, able to handle fast-moving water, maintain balance, and hold fishing positions for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The Uncompahgre River has long been a vital resource for local Ute tribes and played a role in Colorado’s mining history during the 19th century.
Conservation
Ed’s Fly Shop promotes catch-and-release fishing practices to protect native trout populations and maintain river health.
Ed's Fly Shop
Experience an adrenaline-fueled 6-hour float fly fishing trip on Colorado’s Uncompahgre River. Perfect for confident anglers seeking big waves and challenging white water, this adventure offers unforgettable river thrills and fishing moments.
Ed's Fly Shop in Montrose, Colorado operates guided fly fishing trips and instructional guide courses across western Colorado’s premier rivers.
The outfitter runs full-day walk‑wade and float trips on the Lower Gunnison River, guided full‑day float trips targeting Brown and Rainbow trout, and multi‑day guided float/backcountry adventures in the Gunnison Gorge that include gourmet meals and wilderness hikes.
Trips on the San Miguel River provide accessible eight‑hour walk‑wade outings beneath red canyon walls, suitable for families and anglers of all skill levels.
The Uncompahgre River float trip offers a fast‑paced six‑hour run through narrow water and challenging white‑water sections for confident, experienced anglers.
Ed's Fly Shop also operates an immersive Guide School on the Uncompahgre and Gunnison Rivers that teaches fishing tactics, river navigation, rowing, and client care; graduates can become hireable guides in Colorado or improve their own guiding and angling skills.
On select trips guides prepare lunches and drinks, while multi‑day Gunnison Gorge experiences feature professionally prepared gourmet meals.
The Lower Gunnison full‑day float follows a catch‑and‑release policy and focuses on conservation of Gold Medal trout fisheries. Guides emphasize safety, Leave No Trace ethics, and river stewardship.
As a Montrose‑based outfitter, Ed's Fly Shop focuses on local rivers, experienced guides, and a range of trip formats from family‑friendly walk‑wade days to rigorous float trips and multi‑day wilderness expeditions.
Reservations are based in Montrose, and trips depart from local river access points with gear recommendations provided by the outfitter to prepare anglers for Colorado river conditions. Seasonal scheduling available.
Base Location
Montrose, CO
Local outfitter serving western Colorado
Trip Durations
6 hr–3 day
Options from short to multi‑day
Tours Offered
7 unique tours
Float, walk‑wade, and Guide School
River Specialties
Gunnison & San Miguel
Gold Medal and gorge fisheries
Reserve guided walk‑wade days, float trips, or the Guide School — expert guides, local rivers, and conservation‑minded outings await.
Wear a Personal Flotation Device
Always wear a PFD while on the river to ensure safety during fast currents and white water sections.
Bring Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses reduce glare, helping you spot trout beneath the water surface more easily.
Prepare for Rapid Water Changes
River conditions can shift quickly; be ready to adapt your technique and remain alert throughout the trip.
Use Quick-Drying Clothing
Wear moisture-wicking, quick-dry apparel to stay comfortable in wet river environments for hours.
Wade Boots with Good Traction
Provides stability on slippery river rocks and during entry and exit from the float.
Waders with Neoprene or Breathable Material
Keeps you dry and warm in cooler water temperatures, essential during early spring and fall trips.
spring|fall|winter
High-Quality Fly Rod Suitable for Moving Water
A durable rod designed to perform well in swift river currents increases your chances for successful catches.
Quick-Dry Layered Clothing
Allows for temperature regulation and comfort throughout the day in wet conditions.
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