Lower Gunnison River 2-Day Overnight

Escape to the Wilderness: A Two-Day Lower Gunnison River Adventure

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.

Overview

Custom Float Fishing Trips on the Lower Gunnison River

Experience the adventure of a lifetime with our fully guided 2-Day Overnight Float Trips on the stunning Lower Gunnison River. This Catch & Release fishery is renowned for its thriving Rainbow and Brown trout populations and offers a perfect blend of world-class fishing and breathtaking wilderness. As part of the river’s Gold Medal Waters, this section exceeds expectations with unmatched trout density and size.

The Journey on the Lower Gunnison

Your adventure begins at Ed’s Fly Shop in Montrose, where you’ll meet your guide and prepare for the trip. From there, we’ll travel to the launch point for a scenic float along the Lower Gunnison River. Unlike the Gunnison Gorge, this trip doesn’t require a hike, making it more accessible while still delivering stunning scenery and rewarding fishing opportunities.

Over two days, you’ll float through peaceful waters, target trout in prime fishing spots, and enjoy the solitude of the river. At the end of the day, unwind at a comfortable riverside campsite where your guide will handle meal preparation and setup, ensuring a relaxing and memorable overnight experience.

Trip Details

  • Gear Transport: Guests will use Ed’s Fly Shop-issued dry bags to bring their personal gear along. For convenience, our team will handle gear transport to and from the campsite.
  • Drift Boat Setup: Drift boats accommodate 2 anglers per boat, offering personalized guidance and plenty of space for fishing.
  • Guided Experience: Our professional guides manage everything, from preparing meals (lunch through lunch on Day 2) to setting up camp, so you can focus entirely on fishing and enjoying the journey.
  • Meeting Point: Trips start at Ed’s Fly Shop in Montrose, with an option for hotel or designated parking lot pick-up if arranged in advance. After the trip, we’ll return you to your starting location.

Seasonal Recommendations

We don’t recommend this trip during the middle of summer, as the weather can be quite hot and may impact the overall experience. Instead, we suggest planning your trip in the early summer or fall, when temperatures are more comfortable, and fishing conditions are ideal.

Let's Fish

Experience the Tranquility and Adventure of the Lower Gunnison River

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.

Travel 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!

Meeting Place

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.

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.

The trip includes:

  • A fully guided 2-day float trip on the Lower Gunnison River.
  • All meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 2.
  • Drift boats accommodating 2 anglers per boat.
  • Terminal tackle (leader, tippet, and flies).
  • Professional guide services, including fishing guidance, meal preparation, and camp setup.

Trips typically begin at Ed’s Fly Shop in Montrose, with an option for hotel or designated parking lot pick-up if arranged in advance. Your guide will confirm details prior to departure.

The Lower Gunnison River is home to thriving populations of Rainbow and Brown trout, with excellent opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish.

Waders aren’t required for this trip, but we recommend discussing gear options with your guide to ensure you’re well-prepared. We suggest bringing your own rod and reel for the best experience. We’ll provide you with a dry bag to bring with you on the day of the trip to carry your personal gear. Rental gear, including rods and reels, is also available upon request.

Yes, all meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 2 are included. Your guides will prepare hearty and delicious meals at the riverside campsite. Please let us know in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

Yes! This trip is suitable for anglers of all skill levels. Our guides provide expert instruction to help beginners get started and enhance the experience for seasoned anglers.

We recommend bringing:

  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • A hat and layered clothing for varying weather conditions
  • Comfortable shoes for the boat and camp
  • Snacks and a refillable water bottle

Yes, you’re welcome to bring alcohol, provided it is stored in unbreakable containers. If extra mules are required to transport alcohol, additional fees may apply. Let us know in advance if you’d like us to purchase beer or spirits for your trip, and payment can be arranged prior to departure.

Yes, we don’t recommend this trip in the middle of summer due to hot weather. The best times to book are in the early summer or fall, when temperatures are more comfortable, and fishing conditions are ideal.

Due to the logistics involved in planning this trip, cancellations made less than 30 days prior to the trip date may not be eligible for a refund. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to make adjustments.

The Lower Gunnison River offers a perfect mix of serene float fishing, stunning canyon scenery, and thriving trout populations. This exclusive 2-day overnight trip provides a chance to fully immerse yourself in nature while enjoying world-class fishing and a relaxing riverside camping experience.

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 with our Lower Gunnison River 2-Day Overnight Trip. Float through scenic canyon landscapes, experience world-class fishing, and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. With expert guides and a fully immersive overnight experience, Ed's Fly Shop guarantees a truly unique and memorable journey.