Experience a full day of guided fly fishing on Colorado's Gold Medal Lower Gunnison River. Perfect for all skill levels, this scenic float trip offers expert guides, big trout, and lasting memories.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape, comfortable with standing in water and handling moderate paddling during the float.
Wildlife
History
The Gunnison River has been a vital resource for Native American tribes and early settlers, shaping southwestern Colorado’s development.
Conservation
Ed’s Fly Shop actively supports sustainable fishing practices and river habitat restoration efforts to preserve this Gold Medal fishery for future generations.
Ed's Fly Shop
Experience a full day of guided fly fishing on Colorado's Gold Medal Lower Gunnison River. Perfect for all skill levels, this scenic float trip offers expert guides, big trout, and lasting memories.
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 polarized sunglasses
They reduce glare from the water’s surface, helping you spot trout more easily.
Use biodegradable fly fishing gear
Protect the river ecosystem by opting for environmentally safe flies and tackle.
Bring sun protection
The Colorado sun can be intense; apply sunscreen and wear a hat to avoid burns.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Carry sufficient water as you’ll be outdoors and active all day on the river.
Waders and wading boots
To keep dry and comfortable in cooler water during spring trips.
spring
Sun-protective clothing
Lightweight, breathable fabrics help shield you from the intense summer sun.
summer
Insulated layers
Keep warm during chilly mornings and evenings on the river.
fall
Waterproof rain jacket
Useful for occasional rain showers and windy conditions.
spring