Lower Gunnison River Fly Fishing Adventure in Colorado
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.
Overview
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.
Lower Gunnison River Fly Fishing - Float - Full Day
Rate: $650 per boat 1 or 2 anglers. 8+ hrs
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the ultimate fly fishing adventure on Colorado's Gunnison River, renowned for its Gold Medal trout fishery. Enjoy a full day of guided fishing in stunning scenery, targeting big Browns and Rainbows. With expert guides, delicious lunch, and a catch-and-release policy, this trip promises unforgettable memories for anglers of all skill levels.
This is Colorado’s fly fishing dream trip!
Duration
8.5 Hours
Rates
$650 per boat One or two anglers
About
This is the most iconic day float in a drift boat down river from the world famous Black Canyon National Park and the Gunnison Gorge.
We offer full day – guided Gold Medal fly fishing float trips. This part of the Gunnison calms down with good tail water fishing and some dark bank shadows for BIG Browns and Rainbows and runs clear waters of class II.
It is a Catch & Release fishery with a fish count of over 7,000 Rainbow and Brown trout per mile, 1,000 of which are 14-35 inches. Gold Medal fisheries are 60 pounds of fish per acre and the Gunnison River has over 400 pounds per acre!
The access and unique ‘Hatches’ makes these very desirable trip. We can accommodate our drift boats with 2 anglers per boat. Our professional guides will provide terminal tackles (leader, tippet, and flies) and your lunch. The pace of your trip is set by your guide to maximize the fishing productivity.
The Gunnison River is a sportsman’s and paddler’s paradise. The clear, cold waters of the Gunnison have been designated a Gold Medal Trout Fishery. It is a river that has been included in the National Landscape Conservation System. This part of the Gunnison is a mild class II section and great for fishing beginners to advanced.
Equipment Rentals Available
Please inquire within for any gear that you may need for the trip.
Important details:
- 2 anglers per boat + guide
- Lunch provided
- Equipment rentals available - please inquire within
- Catch & release
- You must purchase a valid Colorado fishing license - we will include a link in your confirmation email
- Gratuities are not included in the trip cost
Food
Lunch includes a charcuterie board with fruits and snacks.
Please contact us in advance for any dietary restrictions such as vegan, Gluten-Free, etc.
Getting There
The meeting place for this trip is at Ed's Fly Shop (this is also the finish point of the trip). We can also meet at Safeway in Delta if that is more convenient for you. And of course, if you preferred to be picked up at your hotel or Air B&B within town, we would be glad to do so.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not included in your trip cost. While tipping is done at your discretion, tipping is one of the gauges we use in terms of customer satisfaction. If you are ever not satisfied, please let us know so that we can adjust our expeditions in the future.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles
- River otters
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.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Montrose
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waders and wading boots
To keep dry and comfortable in cooler water during spring trips.
spring specific
Sun-protective clothing
Lightweight, breathable fabrics help shield you from the intense summer sun.
summer specific
Insulated layers
Keep warm during chilly mornings and evenings on the river.
fall specific
Waterproof rain jacket
Useful for occasional rain showers and windy conditions.
spring specific