Adventure Brief
Float through Colorado’s stunning Gunnison Gorge on a private 2-day fishing adventure. Experience guided trout fishing, scenic hikes, and gourmet meals in nature’s embrace.
2 days
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Float through Colorado’s stunning Gunnison Gorge on a private 2-day fishing adventure. Experience guided trout fishing, scenic hikes, and gourmet meals in nature’s embrace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to handle river floating, hiking, and long hours of fishing.
Wildlife
History
The Gunnison River Gorge area has long been a vital habitat for native tribes and early settlers who relied on the river’s rich resources.
Conservation
Efforts by local organizations aim to protect the river’s water quality and fish populations, making sustainable fishing practices a priority on guided trips.
Ed's Fly Shop
Float through Colorado’s stunning Gunnison Gorge on a private 2-day fishing adventure. Experience guided trout fishing, scenic hikes, and gourmet meals in nature’s embrace.
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.
Bring waterproof gear
Water levels can fluctuate, so waterproof boots and clothing will keep you comfortable during the float and hike.
Use a reliable insect repellent
Bug activity can be high near the river, especially in early summer—packing effective repellent is key for a pleasant trip.
Pack layered clothing
Temperatures can vary drastically from day to night, so layering will help you stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water and rehydrate often; the dry Colorado climate combined with physical activity can lead to dehydration.
Waders and Waterproof Boots
Necessary to stay dry and comfortable during river fishing and wading in shallow areas.
spring|summer|fall
Layered Clothing
Helps manage temperature changes from chilly mornings to warmer afternoons.
spring|fall|winter
Insect Repellent
Protects against bugs common near the river during the warmer months.
summer
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare on the water surface, improving visibility for spotting fish.