Enjoy a peaceful 2-day private paddling and camping trip down Colorado’s Lower Gunnison River. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers stunning scenery and wildlife encounters.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness, comfortable with carrying light camping gear and spending time on water.
Wildlife
History
The Gunnison River corridor has been home to Native American tribes and early settlers who used the river for transportation and fishing.
Conservation
Efforts by local organizations focus on protecting riparian habitats and water quality to preserve the river’s natural environment.
Ed's Fly Shop
Enjoy a peaceful 2-day private paddling and camping trip down Colorado’s Lower Gunnison River. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers stunning scenery and wildlife encounters.
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.
Check Water Levels Before You Go
River conditions can change quickly; always confirm flow rates for safe paddling.
Pack Layers for Variable Weather
Even in summer, temperatures can drop at night, so bring warm clothing.
Bring Bug Repellent
The river corridor can have mosquitoes, especially during evening hours.
Respect Local Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
Dry Bag
Keeps your belongings dry during paddling and camping.
Insulating Layers
Stay warm during cooler evenings and early mornings.
fall
Insect Repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects along the river.
summer
Headlamp or Flashlight
Essential for campsite navigation after dark.