Float and fish on Colorado’s renowned Lower Gunnison River with expert guides from Ed’s Fly Shop. This full-day adventure offers incredible Browns and Rainbows and scenic canyon views.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to handle standing and casting from a drift boat for most of the day.
Wildlife
History
The Gunnison River area has long been important to Native American tribes and later explorers during western expansion.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain water quality and fish habitat include strict catch-and-release policies and public education on sustainable fishing.
Ed's Fly Shop
Float and fish on Colorado’s renowned Lower Gunnison River with expert guides from Ed’s Fly Shop. This full-day adventure offers incredible Browns and Rainbows and scenic canyon views.
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
Polarized lenses reduce river glare to help spot fish more easily in the clear water.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated is key during a long day on the river, especially under the Colorado sun.
Apply insect repellent
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common near the river, especially in summer months.
Dress in layers
Morning temperatures can be cooler, warming up substantially by afternoon.
Lightweight breathable fishing shirt
Protects from sun while keeping you cool during long hours on the river.
summer
Waders or waterproof boots
Keep your feet dry and comfortable during river entry and exit in cooler weather.
spring
Wide-brim hat
Provides sun protection for your face and neck during the float.
Fly fishing vest or pack
Convenient for carrying extra flies, tools, and snacks accessible throughout the trip.