Lower Gunnison River - CO

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

RIGS Fly Shops & Guide Service's Tip of the Week

The Lower Gunnison continues to offer some productive fishing, but conditions have become much more time-sensitive. Due to high water temperatures, lower flows, and reduced dissolved oxygen levels, CPW has issued a voluntary fishing closure from noon to midnight on the Lower Gunnison from the confluence of the North Fork to the Highway 65 Bridge, beginning July 21. Anglers should plan to fish early, be off the water before noon, and consider shifting their focus farther upstream or to higher-elevation waters where environmental stress on fish is less severe. During the early morning window, we are still seeing a good mix of dry fly and nymph activity. PMDs, caddis, and Tricos remain the main bugs in play, with the best surface activity happening early before the day starts to warm. Keep the dry fly rod ready in softer edges, inside seams, and slower current breaks where fish are willing to rise, but be prepared to switch to nymph rigs as the morning progresses and fish settle deeper. Sizing down your flies continues to be the right move. Large stonefly nymphs are still picking up some fish and can work well as a lead fly around banks, shelves, and heavier structure, but trailing smaller patterns has been more productive overall. Size 16–18 PMD nymphs, caddis nymphs, small jig patterns, Trico-style mayfly imitations, and general small mayfly droppers are all worth having in the box. Focus on clean drifts through active feeding zones such as shelves, banks, inside seams, soft edges, and current breaks. Above the North Fork, the main stem is running clearer and remains a better option for anglers looking to stay on trout while avoiding the more stressed lower-elevation sections. Stonefly nymphs can still work as a lead fly, but smaller PMD nymphs, caddis patterns, and light jig droppers have been the most consistent trailers. Move slowly, keep a low profile, and focus on accurate presentations with good depth control. Right now, early starts, smart location choices, and responsible fish handling are the most important parts of a successful day on the Lower Gunnison.

Directions open in app

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby