Experience prime fly fishing during the legendary Stonefly Hatch in Colorado's Gunnison Gorge. Join Ed's Fly Shop for a guided three-day float trip filled with scenic hikes, expert-guided fishing, and gourmet meals.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness to manage hiking, wading, and spending long hours on the river.
Wildlife
History
The Gunnison Gorge area has a rich history tied to Native American tribes and early Western settlers who relied on the river for sustenance.
Conservation
Efforts by local organizations focus on preserving fish habitats and maintaining water quality to sustain the river's thriving trout population.
Ed's Fly Shop
Experience prime fly fishing during the legendary Stonefly Hatch in Colorado's Gunnison Gorge. Join Ed's Fly Shop for a guided three-day float trip filled with scenic hikes, expert-guided fishing, and gourmet meals.
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.
Pack Layered Clothing
Weather in the gorge can vary greatly; bring moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Apply Insect Repellent
During the Stonefly Hatch, insects are abundant—repellent will keep you comfortable while fishing.
Stay Hydrated
The dry Colorado climate and physical activity require drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Use Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized lenses reduce glare on the river, making fish spotting easier and protecting your eyes.
Fly Rod and Reels
A quality fly fishing rod and reel suited to trout fishing ensures better casting and hook setting.
Wading Boots with Felt or Rubber Soles
Good traction and ankle support are important for navigating slippery rocks and riverbeds safely.
spring|summer|fall
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm when weather changes or during river splashes.
spring|fall|winter
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces river glare, protects eyes, and helps spot fish below the water surface.