Upper Gunnison Fishing Report: Conditions, Tips, and Top Flies for Success

The upper Gunnison is slipping into its high-elevation rhythm - flows are moderate, clarity decent, and the trout have started shifting from flashy surface action into more cautious feeding zones. Cold nights are already creeping in, so keep your eyes on shallow shelves and slower seams.
Heads-up: a chance of chilly evening showers and brisk nights means the bugs are winding down and fish will be less active on the surface. Factor that into your tactics this week.

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Conditions Summary

• Flow Rate: Around ~300-500 cfs at Gunnison gauge near town.
• Water Temperature: Likely in the low 50s°F (given elevation and recent reports)
• Air Temperature: Highs mid-50s to low 60s°F; lows possibly in the 20s-30s°F. 
• Clarity: Clear to slightly off-color - good for selective anglers.
• Crowds: Moderate - the upper region sees less heavy traffic than lower tailwater sections.
• Best Times to Fish: Late morning to early afternoon when sun hits water, and short twilight window before dark.
• Fly Fishing Type Scores:
• Dry Fly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
• Nymphing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Streamer: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

5-Day Weather Forecast

Current Hatch Chart - {Month}

Pro Rig of the Week

Guide Setup: Use a 10' 5× leader to a #16 Parachute Adams. From that tie 18" of 6× to a #20 Zebra Midge. Begin with the dry fly; if surface activity is minimal after ~20–30 minutes, remove the dry and add a tiny split-shot ~12" above the midge - instantly converts to a stealth nymph rig without re-rigging entirely. Cast short, drift through seams and tail-outs with minimal drag.

Top Flies for the Month

• Dry Fly: Parachute Adams #16 - ideal for BWO breaks when they happen.
• Nymph: Two Bit Hooker #18 - good in deeper runs or when fish aren’t rising.
• Streamer: Olive Sculpzilla #6 - drop it when light fades, and aim shelf drop-offs or deeper bends.

Tips Fly Fishing on the Upper Gunnison

• Seasonal Tip: With nights dropping cold, trout are moving into slower water and holding deeper - adjust depth and slow your drift.
• Dry Fly: When surface picks up, aim casts just upstream of seams and let flies drift into soft slack. Keep presentation clean.
• Nymphing: Key now. Use subtle weight, longer drifts through transition zones, and keep strikes soft.
• Streamer Fishing: Works best low light or when fish shift into structure; slow retrieves near deeper pockets pay off.

Access Points

1. Shady Island River Park (Almont) - straightforward access, good for wade or short float. ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
2. Wilson’s Landing - slightly longer walk-in, fewer anglers, calmer water. ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
3. Taylor Park Reservoir put-in - for larger float/boat trips; more remote, more rugged, big reward. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Local Regulations and Landowner Notes

Public access exists but check for seasonal closures, especially in tributary zones and higher elevation gates. Respect private property signage and access roads. Check water release schedules (the upper Gunnison is influenced by storage and tributary flows). 

FAQ on This Spot

1. What are current flows and clarity like?
   Flow ~300-500 cfs at Gunnison gauge; clarity good.
2. When is the best month to fish this stretch?
   Summer through early fall is top; late season still solid if you adjust for colder water.
3. What flies are producing right now?
   Parachute Adams #16, Two Bit Hooker #18, Olive Sculpzilla #6.
4. Can I wade or should I float?
   Wading is very doable in many stretches; float/boat gives access to more water but not required.
5. What species can I expect?
   Rainbows, browns, and cutthroat/cuttbow hybrids. High-density trout and some larger fish.
6. Any local shops or guides nearby?
   Yes - e.g., fly shops in Gunnison/Creste Butte region. Quick local check before you go is wise.