Gunnison River Fly Fishing Report

The Gunnison River, one of Colorado’s most diverse fisheries, offers a mix of freestone and tailwater fly fishing. Flowing from Almont through Blue Mesa Reservoir and into deep canyons, it’s home to vibrant rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout populations. With consistent flows due to dam releases, it provides excellent year-round fishing opportunities for both waders and float fishers alike. 

The Gunnison River is delivering a stellar fall season! With flows around 415 CFS, the river is primed for wade fishing, and the cool water temps in the low 50s have trout feeding actively throughout the day. This month, the Gunnison’s famous “Gunny Green” water clarity and the surrounding fall colors make for a gorgeous setting. Anglers can expect the browns to be in pre-spawn mode, adding some aggression to their takes – ideal for streamer fans and nymphers alike.

Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: 415 CFS
• Water Temperature: Low 50s°F
• Clarity: Clear (Gunny Green)
• Best Times: Early morning and around dusk

Source: Colorado Division of Natural Resources River Flow Stations

Top 3 Flies for the Week

• Dry Fly: Blue-Winged Olive (#18-22) – Perfect for overcast days, especially in slower runs.
• Nymph: Baetis Nymph (#18-20) – Use as a dropper in riffles and seams; highly effective in this tailwater stretch.
• Streamer: Sculpzilla (#6-8) – Swing along deeper pools and near structure to bring out larger pre-spawn browns.

Tips for Fly Fishing on the Gunnison

Seasonal Tip
With pre-spawn browns getting aggressive, don’t shy away from larger presentations. Streamer fishing has been especially productive on cloudier days, with big browns willing to chase down moving patterns.

Dry Fly
The Blue Wing Olive hatch continues to draw surface action, especially mid-morning. Target slower pools and seams with a BWO in sizes #18-22.

Nymphing
Nymph rigs with small Baetis nymphs are landing consistent fish. Start with a heavier fly like a Copper John or a San Juan Worm to anchor your rig, followed by a Baetis or midge pattern.

Streamer Fishing
For those chasing the bigger trout, streamers are the name of the game. Olive or black Sculpzillas are effective, especially when retrieved with slow, steady strips along structure.

Access Points

East Portal

• Description: A scenic entry below Crystal Dam with classic tailwater features.
• Why Fish Here: Reliable flows and active trout in deeper runs and riffles make this a rewarding spot.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Gunnison Gorge

• Description: Known for less foot traffic, offering both wade and float opportunities.
• Why Fish Here: Ideal for those looking to explore a remote section with bountiful trout.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pleasure Park

• Description: A popular lower section with easy river access, great for nymphing.
• Why Fish Here: Consistent conditions with ample riffles and seams for productive nymphing.
• Location: [Google Maps link here]
• Locals’ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Notes on Landowner Rights

This section of the Gunnison is mostly public, especially within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Respect private property boundaries outside of these zones. As brown trout enter their pre-spawn season, avoid wading in shallow, spawning areas to protect future populations.