Gunnison Fishing: Following the River from Taylor Dam to the Black Canyon
Gunnison's fishery follows the river system from the trophy tailwater below Taylor Dam through the upper Gunnison, into Blue Mesa Reservoir, and down into the Gunnison Gorge — each section a different experience.
Gunnison sits in a wide valley at 7,700 feet in southwestern Colorado, where the Taylor River and East River converge to form the Gunnison River at Almont. From there, the Gunnison flows west through Blue Mesa Reservoir — the largest body of water in Colorado — and then plunges into the Black Canyon before emerging into the Gunnison Gorge.
The fishing follows the river system, and each section has its own character: a world-class tailwater, a productive freestone, a massive reservoir, and a remote gorge that requires a hike to access. Combined, they make Gunnison one of the most diverse trout-and-kokanee destinations in the West.
The Taylor River Tailwater
The Taylor River below Taylor Park Dam is where the trophy fishing lives. The cold, stable flows from the dam create a tailwater that holds some of the largest trout in Colorado — rainbow and brown trout in the 16- to 24-inch range, with fish over 26 inches caught every season.
The section immediately below the dam — the first mile or so — is the most productive and the most technical. The water is clear, the fish are pressured, and you're fishing small nymphs and midges on fine tippet to visible trout holding in the current. It's technical enough to humble experienced anglers on the wrong day, and rewarding enough to bring them back.
Further downstream, the Taylor transitions from tailwater to freestone character as tributaries add flow. The fish get smaller but more willing, and the dry-fly fishing picks up through the summer months. The Taylor Canyon section is scenic pocket water — boulders, plunge pools, and short runs that hold rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
The Upper Gunnison — Almont to Blue Mesa
At Almont, the Taylor meets the East River to form the Gunnison, and the upper Gunnison flows nearly 20 miles before entering Blue Mesa Reservoir. This is classic freestone water — riffles, runs, deep pools, and pocketwater with rainbow and brown trout averaging 9 to 17 inches, with the occasional 20-inch fish mixed in.
The upper Gunnison is less technical than the Taylor tailwater and more forgiving of imperfect presentations. Dry-dropper rigs, hopper patterns in late summer, and nymph rigs through the deeper runs all produce consistently. Wade fishing works well in most sections, and float trips cover more water.
The East River near Crested Butte adds another dimension — smaller water, wild brook and brown trout, and a more intimate mountain-stream feel. It's a great half-day option when you want variety.
Blue Mesa Reservoir — Kokanee and Lake Trout
Blue Mesa Reservoir is a massive impoundment — 20 miles long and covering 9,000 surface acres. It's the largest body of water in Colorado and holds a fishery that's completely different from the rivers.
Kokanee salmon are the star of Blue Mesa. These landlocked sockeye salmon run three to five pounds and are caught by trolling cowbells and flashers with small lures or bait at depth. The kokanee fishing peaks in late summer (August and September), and when you find a school, limits come quickly. In fall, the kokanee turn red and push up into the tributaries to spawn — creating the same upriver drama that defines wild Pacific salmon, in miniature.
Lake trout (mackinaw) hold in the deeper water and grow large — fish over 20 pounds are caught on Blue Mesa. They respond to trolling and jigging in 80 to 120 feet of water during summer, and they move shallower in spring and fall when water temperatures drop.
Rainbow and brown trout round out the reservoir menu, often caught along the shoreline and near creek inlets.
The Gunnison Gorge
Below the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, the river enters the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area — a remote, wild stretch of river accessible only by a steep hike or raft trip. This is Gold Medal water, and the isolation keeps pressure low.
The Gorge holds big rainbow and brown trout in powerful freestone water — deep runs, long riffles, and boulder gardens that hold fish in every seam. Guide trips here are typically full-day float trips, and the scenery is some of the most dramatic in Colorado — the remnants of the Black Canyon walls towering above as the river opens into the gorge.
The Gorge fishes best from mid-May through October once spring runoff clears. Stonefly, hopper, and caddis patterns produce well, and the fish are less educated than the Taylor tailwater trout because fewer anglers make the effort to access the water.
When to Go
- March–April: Taylor tailwater midge fishing, early-season nymphing on the upper Gunnison
- June–July: Runoff clears, stonefly hatches on the Gorge, the rivers come into prime form
- August–September: Peak season — dry-fly fishing everywhere, kokanee on Blue Mesa, hopper season
- October: Fall brown trout spawn on the Taylor and upper Gunnison, kokanee spawning run — the trophy window
Top Fishing Guides in Gunnison
Gunnison guides fish the Taylor River tailwater for trophy trout below the dam, float the upper Gunnison through ranch meadows, and wade Gold Medal water in the Black Canyon Gorge. Blue Mesa Reservoir adds kokanee salmon and lake trout to the mix.
GSO Fishing
Gunnison, CO, US
5.0 (112 reviews)
GSO Fishing has been guiding anglers on Colorado's Blue Mesa Reservoir since 2006, earning a reputation for personalized service and exceptional fishing experiences. Based in Gunnison, the operation specializes in targeting Lake Trout and Kokanee Salmon, two species that thrive in the reservoir's pristine alpine waters. What distinguishes GSO Fishing is their commitment to tailoring each trip to individual client needs and skill levels. Their guides bring nearly two decades of reservoir expertise to every outing, paired with quality tackle and a genuine focus on education. Whether anglers are seeking trophy-sized catches or a tranquil day on the water, GSO Fishing creates memorable experiences backed by deep knowledge of Blue Mesa's unique fishery.
The Guided Trip
Gunnison, CO, US
5.0 (49 reviews)
The Guided Trip The Guided Trip offers premier fly fishing experiences throughout Colorado's Gunnison Valley, with deep expertise on the renowned Gunnison River. Specializing in rainbow and brown trout, the service caters to anglers of all skill levels—from those picking up a fly rod for the first time to veteran fishermen seeking new challenges. Led by experienced guides committed to personalized instruction, The Guided Trip crafts trips tailored to each angler's goals and abilities. Beyond the water, the team shares their extensive knowledge through detailed fishing reports, a podcast, and blog content, helping clients make the most of their time in this scenic mountain region.
Hatcreek Outfitters
Gunnison, CO, US
5.0 (49 reviews)
Hatcreek Outfitters is a family-owned business with over 50 years of expertise guiding anglers and hunters through Colorado's pristine LaGarita Wilderness in the Gunnison National Forest. Their experienced guides specialize in creating safe, engaging outdoor experiences that deepen guests' connection to the landscape and wildlife. The outfitter offers a range of adventures including fishing, elk hunting, camping, and hiking trips tailored to different skill levels and interests. Whether seeking solitude on remote waters or an action-packed expedition, guests benefit from the team's deep knowledge of the region and commitment to educational, memorable experiences in one of Colorado's most beautiful wild areas.
Gunnison Fly Fishing Outfitters
Gunnison, CO, US
5.0 (28 reviews)
Gunn Is On Fly Fishing Outfitters delivers exceptional fly fishing experiences across the pristine waters of Gunnison, Colorado. Their team of expert guides specializes in targeting Rainbow, Brown, Brook, Cutthroat, and Tiger Trout, welcoming both seasoned anglers and those new to the sport. Whether clients prefer floating scenic stretches or wading remote sections, the outfitters customize each adventure to match skill level and preferences. Built on a foundation of passion and environmental stewardship, Gunn Is On combines world-class instruction with genuine conservation commitment. Half-day and full-day trips ensure flexibility for any schedule, allowing anglers to experience the region's stunning landscapes while pursuing trophy-caliber trout in some of Colorado's most rewarding waters.
Alpine Outfitters
Gunnison, CO, US
5.0 (28 reviews)
Alpine Outfitters offers premier boat fishing experiences on Colorado's Blue Mesa Reservoir, where anglers pursue Kokanee salmon, trout, and perch in the shadow of the San Juan Mountains. The guides bring years of local expertise to every outing, employing proven techniques including trolling, casting, and jigging to maximize success across all skill levels. Whether planning a family adventure or a focused angling expedition, clients benefit from customized trip planning and top-quality equipment. Alpine Outfitters' approach emphasizes both the catch and the experience—combining productive fishing with the reservoir's stunning high-country scenery for a truly memorable day on the water.
Black Canyon Anglers
Gunnison, CO, US
5.0 (7 reviews)
Black Canyon Anglers Established in 1985, Black Canyon Anglers has built an unmatched reputation as the largest and most experienced fly fishing outfitter on Colorado's Gunnison River. As the only fishing lodge situated directly on the river, the operation combines expert local knowledge with quality equipment and meticulous attention to detail. The guide team specializes in wilderness float fishing and walk-and-wade fly fishing, offering both immersive backcountry experiences and accessible day trips. Whether pursuing trophy trout or enjoying classic whitewater elements alongside fishing, guests benefit from guides who intimately understand the Gunnison's character and seasonal rhythms. Black Canyon Anglers welcomes anglers of all skill levels, delivering the kind of personalized service and insider expertise that comes only from nearly four decades on these waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Taylor River known for?
The Taylor River below Taylor Park Dam is one of the premier trophy trout tailwaters in Colorado, holding rainbow and brown trout in the 16- to 24-inch range. The cold, stable flows create excellent year-round fishing conditions, though the fish are highly pressured and technically demanding to catch.
Can you catch kokanee salmon at Blue Mesa Reservoir?
Yes — Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado's premier kokanee fishery. The landlocked salmon run three to five pounds and are caught by trolling in late summer (August and September). In fall, they turn red and push upstream to spawn, attracting large brown trout that follow them for the eggs.
What is the Gunnison Gorge?
The Gunnison Gorge is a remote, Gold Medal stretch of the Gunnison River below Black Canyon National Park. It's accessible only by hiking or rafting and holds big rainbow and brown trout in powerful freestone water with low fishing pressure. Guide trips are typically full-day floats through dramatic canyon scenery.
When is the best time to fish in Gunnison?
August through October is the peak window — dry-fly fishing on the rivers, kokanee on Blue Mesa, and the fall brown trout spawn. June and July are excellent after runoff clears. The Taylor tailwater fishes well year-round. Spring (March–April) offers early-season midge and nymph fishing.
Is Gunnison good for beginner fly fishing?
The upper Gunnison River from Almont to Blue Mesa is forgiving and well-suited for beginners — the fish are willing and the water is wadeable. The Taylor tailwater is more technical and better suited for experienced anglers. Blue Mesa kokanee trolling requires no fly-fishing skill at all.
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