Gunnison River
OptimalColorado
Current Conditions
The Gunnison River is running at 511 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 3:30 AM from USGS gauge 09128000 (Gunnison River below Gunnison Tunnel)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 300–800 CFS | Fishable to 2000 CFS | Marginal to 3500 CFS
About the Gunnison River
The Gunnison offers diverse fishing from the Black Canyon — one of the most dramatic river gorges in North America — to the broad tailwater below Crystal Dam. Trophy brown trout lurk in the deep canyon pools.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Stimulator #8 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18
River Sections
Black Canyon
wade access511 CFS
Extremely remote canyon with trophy browns. Strenuous hike-in access but world-class fishing.
Gunnison Gorge
wade/float access511 CFS
Below the Black Canyon with more accessible fishing. Gold Medal water with excellent hatches.
Guides on the Gunnison River(28)
These fishing guides list the Gunnison River as one of their home waters.
Arkansas River Tours
Cotopaxi, Colorado
Bill Dvorak’s Expeditions
Nathrop, Colorado
Black Canyon Anglers
Austin, Colorado
Blue Mesa Fly Fishing Guide
Frisco, Colorado
Crested Butte Angler
Crested Butte, Colorado
Dragonfly Anglers
Crested Butte, Colorado
Fly Fishing Outfitters
Avon, Colorado
Gunnison Country Outfitters
Gunnison, Colorado
Gunnison Fish & Raft
Gunnison, Colorado
Gunnison Fly Fishing Outfitters
Gunnison, Colorado
Gunnison River Expeditions
Delta, Colorado
Gunnison River Guides
Almont, Colorado
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Gunnison River?+
The Gunnison River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Gunnison River in March?+
In March, the Gunnison River sees Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Gunnison River?+
Outguided lists 28 fishing guides who operate on the Gunnison River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Gunnison River?+
The Gunnison River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 300–800 CFS.
What fish species are in the Gunnison River?+
The Gunnison River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Gunnison River below Gunnison Tunnel
Station #09128000
Gunnison River near Grand Junction
Station #09152500