Overview
Custom Float Fishing Trips on the Gunnison River Gorge
Experience the adventure of a lifetime with our fully guided fly-fishing trips on the breathtaking Gunnison River Gorge. This Catch & Release fishery boasts an incredible fish count of over 7,000 Rainbow and Brown trout per mile, with 1,000 trout ranging from 14 to 35 inches. Recognized as a Gold Medal Fishery, the Gunnison River exceeds expectations with over 400 pounds of fish per acre—far surpassing the 60-pound per acre requirement for this designation.
The Journey into the Gorge
Accessible only by foot, the journey begins with a 1-mile hike down the Chucker Trail, leading you to the wilderness canyon floor. To prepare for your adventure, Ed's Fly Shop will horse-pack rafts and gear into the Gorge the day before your trip. This remote and pristine canyon rewards those willing to go the extra mile, offering unmatched solitude, breathtaking scenery, and a true wilderness experience.
Trip Details
- Gear Transport: Guests carry personal gear in Ed’s Fly Shop-issued dry bag backpacks (14" Dia x 24" H), provided for your convenience. For added ease, you can opt for a horse to carry your bags to the river’s edge (gear must be delivered to us two days before your trip).
- Raft Setup: Rafts accommodate 2 anglers per boat.
- Guided Experience: Our professional guides handle everything—from preparing meals (lunch through lunch on multi-day trips) to setting up camp, so you can focus entirely on fishing and enjoying the experience.
- Meeting Point: We can pick you up at your hotel or a designated parking lot for your convenience. After the trip, we’ll return you to the same location to complete your adventure.
Why Choose the Gunnison River Gorge?
- Unique June Stonefly Hatch: A thrilling and rare opportunity for anglers.
- Limited Access: Only 8 participants per trip, ensuring an exclusive and intimate experience.
- Catch & Release: Help preserve this incredible fishery for future generations.
- Gold Medal Waters: Renowned for its trout population and angling opportunities.
Important Information
- Minimum Group Size: 2 anglers per raft.
- Fishing Style: Fly fishing only.
- Fishing License: A valid Colorado fishing license is required (link provided in your confirmation email).
- Gratuities: Not included in the trip cost.
- Limited Space: Only 8 spots available per trip—book early!
Let's Fish
Experience the wild and the solitude on the Gunnison
Delicious Meals Throughout Your Journey
Our meals are thoughtfully planned with an emphasis on fresh and hearty vegetables, salads, and gourmet selections to delight our guests. Your guides will handle all the preparations, ensuring you enjoy delicious and satisfying meals throughout your adventure.
We’re happy to accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice—just let us know when booking!
Alcohol Policy for Multi-Day Expeditions
You’re welcome to bring alcohol on multi-day trips, provided it is stored in unbreakable containers. We strongly advise discretion in alcohol consumption, particularly during whitewater days, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
If you’d like us to purchase specific beer or spirits for your trip, please let us know in advance. Payment for these items can be arranged with the shop prior to departure.
Meeting Place and Travel Recommendations
The meeting place for your trip will vary depending on your lodging arrangements. We recommend staying in Montrose, Colorado, the night before your launch date and arranging to park your vehicle (if applicable) at your hotel. If you need lodging suggestions, our staff will be happy to provide recommendations.
Getting to Montrose
- By Plane: Fly into Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), served by United, American, Southwest, and Delta airlines. We can arrange pick-up at your hotel or the airport.
By Car: Option 1: Take I-70 to Grand Junction then Hwy 550 South Bound to Montrose. Option 2: Take Hwy 50 into Montrose.
Let us know if you have any questions or need assistance with your travel plans!
Gratuity Information
Gratuity is not included in your trip cost and is entirely at your discretion. While tipping is optional, it serves as a helpful gauge of customer satisfaction for our team. If you’re ever not satisfied with your experience, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve and enhance our expeditions for future guests.
FAQs
Late Spring to Early Summer (May to June)
- Highlights: The famous Stonefly Hatch occurs during this time, offering some of the most exciting dry fly fishing of the year. Trout are actively feeding on the surface, making it a favorite time for anglers.
- Weather: Mild temperatures with increasing warmth as summer approaches.
- Water Conditions: Flows can be higher due to snowmelt, but this also means the river is at its most dynamic and exhilarating.
Summer (July to August)
- Highlights: Consistent fishing opportunities with a mix of dry fly and nymph fishing. This is also a popular time for those who enjoy the sunny, warm weather.
- Weather: Warm days and cooler nights. Perfect for camping along the river.
- Water Conditions: Flows stabilize, creating ideal floating and fishing conditions.
Fall (September to October)
- Highlights: Stunning fall foliage and quieter conditions on the river. Brown trout become more active as they prepare for spawning, creating great opportunities for larger catches.
- Weather: Cooler, crisp days and chilly nights. Layers are essential for comfort.
- Water Conditions: Flows are typically lower, offering a more serene and intimate experience.
No, you don’t need 8 people to reserve a trip. We recommend booking this trip with a buddy to enhance the experience. If you’d like to go solo, we’ll do our best to accommodate you by pairing you with another solo guest.
Please contact the shop before booking if you’re planning to go solo, so we can discuss the best options for your trip.
We provide freshly prepared meals throughout your trip to keep you fueled and satisfied:
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner.
- Day 2: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Day 3: Breakfast and dinner.
We recommend bringing your own snacks to have on hand in case you’d like something between meals. Our guides handle all meal preparations, ensuring hearty and delicious options to enhance your experience.
Our trips tend to sell out quickly, largely due to repeat bookings from our loyal clients. To secure a date that works best for you, we highly recommend booking early.
Please note that all of our trip dates are preassigned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), so availability is limited. Don’t wait too long to reserve your spot!
Ready to Go?
Reserve Your Spot Today!
This trip is extremely popular and availability is very limited—don’t wait to secure your adventure. Reserve your spot in our rafts now by clicking the button below.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the stunning Gunnison River Gorge. With expert guides, world-class fishing, and breathtaking wilderness, Ed's Fly Shop ensures a truly unique and memorable experience.
