Gunnison Gorge vs. Lower Gunnison River: Which Fly Fishing Trip Is Right for You?

If you've been browsing our guided trip options at Ed's Fly Shop, you may have noticed we offer trips on two distinct sections of the Gunnison River — the legendary Gunnison Gorge and the more accessible Lower Gunnison River. Both are Gold Medal fisheries teeming with Rainbow and Brown trout, both are absolutely stunning, and both are guided by our expert team out of Montrose.

But they are two very different experiences — and choosing the right one can make the difference between a good trip and the trip of a lifetime.

Here's our honest, side by side breakdown to help you decide.

The Gunnison Gorge: A True Wilderness Adventure

The Gunnison Gorge is one of the most remote and breathtaking fly fishing destinations in the lower 48 states. Located in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area below Black Canyon National Park, this section of river is accessible only by foot, making every trip feel like a true expedition into the wild.

What makes it special: The Gorge offers over 14 miles of Gold Medal water with more than 7,000 Rainbow and Brown trout per mile and fish regularly exceeding 20 inches. The canyon walls, towering red sandstone cliffs, and complete solitude create an experience that is impossible to replicate anywhere else in Colorado.

The trip: Our Gunnison Gorge 3 Day Float Trip is a fully guided, all inclusive wilderness adventure. After a shuttle from Ed's Fly Shop, you'll hike 1 mile down the Chukar Trail to the canyon floor where rafts and camp are already set up and waiting, thanks to our horse pack operation the day before. For three days you'll float the river, cast to trophy trout, and camp under the stars in one of Colorado's most remote canyons.

Physical requirements: This trip requires a 1 mile moderately steep hike in and out of the canyon. Reasonable fitness and mobility are recommended.

Best for: Anglers looking for a bucket list, multi day wilderness experience. Those who want to fish the famous June Stonefly hatch. Anglers with some fly fishing experience who want a technical and rewarding challenge. Anyone who wants complete solitude and a true disconnect from the everyday world.

What's included: All meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 3, terminal tackle, professional guide services, camp setup, and all gear transport.

Important note: Dates are strictly limited by BLM permit. This trip sells out fast, especially for June.

The Lower Gunnison River: World Class Fishing, No Hike Required

The Lower Gunnison River begins just downstream of the Gorge and flows through the stunning sandstone landscape of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area near Pleasure Park. While it doesn't carry the same remote wilderness feel as the Gorge, make no mistake. This is still exceptional, world class fly fishing on Gold Medal water.

What makes it special: The Lower Gunnison features slightly warmer water, slower flows, and a more relaxed pace than the Gorge. It's perfectly suited for drift boat fishing with plenty of room to cast, productive hatches throughout the season, and excellent opportunities for both dry fly and nymph fishing. Rainbow and Brown trout are the primary targets, with fish regularly reaching trophy size.

The trip: Our Lower Gunnison River Full Day Float Trip is a single day guided drift boat experience. You'll meet your guide at Ed's Fly Shop in Montrose, travel to the launch point, and spend a full day floating this beautiful stretch of river, fishing riffles, runs, and deep pools with an expert guide by your side. A delicious riverside lunch is included.

Physical requirements: No hiking required. This trip is accessible to anglers of all physical abilities and fitness levels.

Best for: Anglers of all skill levels, including beginners. Those who want a full day of world class fishing without a multi day commitment. Families or groups with mixed experience levels. Anglers who want a relaxed, comfortable float with excellent fishing.

What's included: Full day of guided drift boat fishing, terminal tackle, and a delicious riverside lunch prepared by your guide.

Side by Side Comparison

So Which Trip Is Right for You?

Choose the Gunnison Gorge 3 Day Float if: You're an angler who has always dreamed of a true wilderness fly fishing expedition. You want to experience the famous June Stonefly hatch, camp beside one of Colorado's most spectacular rivers, and catch trophy trout in a remote canyon that most people will never see. This is a bucket list trip that will stay with you forever.

Choose the Lower Gunnison Full Day Float if: You want an exceptional day of guided fly fishing on Gold Medal water without the multi day commitment or physical demands of the Gorge. This is the perfect introduction to Gunnison River fishing and a fantastic trip in its own right for anglers of any experience level.

Can't decide? Call us at 970-964-9991 and we'll help you choose the right trip based on your experience level, fitness, schedule, and what you're looking for on the water. We know these rivers better than anyone and we'll be straight with you about which trip is the best fit.

Book Your Gunnison River Trip Today

Both trips are extremely popular and availability is limited, especially for the Gunnison Gorge where BLM permit dates fill up months in advance.

Book the Gunnison Gorge 3 Day Float Trip

Book the Lower Gunnison Full Day Float Trip

Stop by Ed's Fly Shop at 432 E Main St, Montrose, CO or give us a call at 970-964-9991. We look forward to getting you on the water.