What to Expect on a Lower Gunnison Float Trip with Ed's Fly Shop

The Lower Gunnison River is one of the finest fly fishing destinations in the American West. Flowing through a stunning desert canyon at roughly 4500 feet elevation the Lower Gunnison offers anglers an accessible and incredibly productive day on Gold Medal water that is fishable virtually year round. Whether you are a seasoned fly angler looking to explore new water or a first timer eager to experience guided float fishing for the first time a Lower Gunnison float trip with Ed's Fly Shop is an experience you will not soon forget.

Here is everything you need to know about what to expect when you book a Lower Gunnison float trip with our team.

The River

The Lower Gunnison River begins below the confluence of the North Fork of the Gunnison and flows through a breathtaking desert canyon on its way toward Delta and the Colorado River. This section of the river is renowned for its healthy populations of Rainbow and Brown trout thriving in its Gold Medal designated waters. The canyon setting at lower elevation means the Lower Gunnison fishes well in every season making it one of the longest float fishing seasons in all of western Colorado.

The Lower Gunnison is fundamentally different from the Gunnison Gorge. Where the Gorge is a remote wilderness experience requiring a hike and multiple days the Lower Gunnison is accessible, manageable, and perfectly suited for a full day float trip. The water features a variety of riffles, runs, pools, and classic dry fly water that keeps anglers engaged and productive throughout the day.

Meeting Your Guide

All Lower Gunnison float trips with Ed's Fly Shop begin at our shop at 432 E Main St in Montrose unless other arrangements are made in advance. Your guide will contact you before your trip to confirm all the details, answer any questions, and make sure you are fully prepared for the day ahead.

When you arrive at the shop your guide will get you rigged up, fitted with any rental gear you need, and walk you through everything you need to know before you hit the water. Our guides are passionate anglers who know the Lower Gunnison intimately and take genuine pride in putting their clients on fish.

What Is Included

A Lower Gunnison full day float trip with Ed's Fly Shop includes everything you need for a great day on the water. Your trip includes a professional guide, drift boat, terminal tackle including leader, tippet, and flies, and a delicious lunch on the river. Our guides handle all the logistics so you can focus entirely on fishing and enjoying one of the most beautiful river canyons in Colorado.

We recommend bringing your own rod, reel, waders, and boots. However if you need rental gear we offer rod, reel, wader, and boot rentals to make sure you are fully equipped for your trip. Just let us know in advance when you book so we can have everything ready for you.

Fishing From the Boat and On Foot

One of the great advantages of a float trip on the Lower Gunnison is the ability to cover water that bank anglers simply cannot reach. Your guide will row you through miles of productive river stopping at the best runs, riffles, and pools along the way. Some water is best fished from the comfortable casting platform of the drift boat while other spots call for getting out and wading to get the perfect angle on a rising fish.

Expect a dynamic combination of boat fishing and walk and wade opportunities throughout the day. Your guide will read the water and put you in the best position to catch fish at every stop. This is not a passive float — your guide is actively working to maximize your time on productive water from the moment you launch to the moment you take out.

What You Will Catch

The Lower Gunnison is home to healthy populations of Rainbow and Brown trout in Gold Medal designated water. Fish counts on this section of river are impressive and anglers regularly encounter trout ranging from solid fish in the 12 to 16 inch range all the way up to trophy Browns and Rainbows that will test your tackle and your nerves.

The Gold Medal designation means this section of the Gunnison meets the highest standards for trout population density and quality making it one of the premier trout fisheries in Colorado. Whether you are chasing numbers or hunting for that one big fish the Lower Gunnison delivers.

What Flies to Expect Throughout the Season

The Lower Gunnison is a prolific hatch river and knowing what to expect each season will help you get the most out of your float trip.

Spring brings epic Blue Wing Olive and Caddis hatches that can produce outstanding dry fly fishing when conditions align. This is a fantastic time to be on the water as the canyon comes alive with insects and actively rising trout.

May and June are defined by the legendary Stonefly hatch. When the Salmonfly and Golden Stone hatches are on the Lower Gunnison the dry fly fishing can be as good as anywhere in the Rocky Mountain West. Throwing large dry flies to aggressive trout is an experience every serious fly angler needs to have at least once.

Summer brings Hoppers, Caddis, PMDs, and terrestrials to the party. Hopper dropper fishing from the drift boat is one of the most productive and exciting ways to fish the Lower Gunnison in July and August. Expect aggressive takes and plenty of action throughout the long summer days.

Fall is a mixed bag of Hopper dropper rigs, nymphing with small Baetis patterns, BWO dry flies, and streamers as the water cools and the big Browns begin to think about spawning. Some of the largest fish of the year are caught in October and November as streamer fishing picks up and the trout become increasingly aggressive.

Winter brings consistent Midge and Baetis fishing in a canyon that remains fishable when much of Colorado is locked under ice and snow. The lower elevation of the Lower Gunnison canyon keeps conditions manageable and the fish active throughout the winter months.

Skill Level

Our Lower Gunnison full day float trips are ideal for anglers with some prior fly fishing experience who are looking for a more active and engaging day on the water. That said our guides are happy to work with anglers of all skill levels from beginners to experienced veterans. If you have questions about whether this trip is right for your experience level give us a call at 970-964-9991 and we will help you find the perfect trip for your abilities and goals.

What to Bring

Our guides will send you a detailed gear list when you book your trip but here is a general overview of what to pack for a Lower Gunnison float trip:

A valid Colorado fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older. You can purchase one online before your trip and we will provide a link in your confirmation email. Polarized sunglasses are essential for spotting fish and protecting your eyes. Sun protection including sunscreen, a hat, and a sun shirt will keep you comfortable during long days in the canyon. A rain jacket is always a good idea in Colorado where weather can change quickly. Layers are important especially in spring and fall when morning temperatures in the canyon can be significantly cooler than the afternoon. Bring a water bottle and snacks in addition to the lunch provided by your guide.

How to Book

Ready to experience the Lower Gunnison for yourself? Book your Lower Gunnison full day float trip directly through our website or give us a call at 970-964-9991. Our team is happy to answer any questions and help you choose the right trip for your group.

Book a Lower Gunnison Float Trip

Trips fill up quickly especially during prime hatch season so we recommend booking early to secure your preferred dates. We look forward to seeing you on the water.