Taylor River Lodge Wows in Late Summer

Good times and great oldies sum up the July we had as Gunnison and Crested Butte fishing guides. Our guests were in awe after trout fishing on the Gunnison River, Tomichi Creek, and Taylor River. Don’t let yourself down if you missed the action as we turn the page to August and anticipate similar success stories from the river banks to the dories. 

We Go Where the Gettin’s Good

The mayflies are still present within the watershed so be sure to get out and take advantage of the midday action on your fishing trips. Taylor River Lodge guests are getting the goods and finding excellent windows of dry fly fishing. With that said, the Gunnison River will give you memorable experiences through scenery, fighting fish, and prime flows. 

Mayfly Hatches Bring the Goods

August is going to continue producing quality trout fishing days on the water. Our guests are still getting some green drake and PMD hatches midday, with caddis also in the mix. The mayflies will taper out, followed by a lull in the action, then move towards some cooler temperatures when the fish will begin their fall feeding behaviors. Rain and cloud cover are crucial this time of year in order to cool the air and water temperatures, which can induce midday hatches and feeding fish. We’ll start to notice trico clusters on the water surface, so be prepared with small split tail adults and nymphs.

Try these patterns for the best Colorado trout fishing this August: 

• RS2 16-20
• Micro & psycho mayfly 14-18
• Copper John 16-18
• Pheasant tail 14-18
• Tanked Trico 18-22
• Two bit hooker 14-18
• JuJu baetis 16-20
• Elk hair caddis 14-18
• Missing link 12-16
• Parachute adams 16-20
• Poly wing emerger 18-22
• CDC Trico Emerger 18-22

Mid-Summer Trout Fishing Conditions

Our fishing guides are determined to take you where and when the trout fishing is at its best during this period of transition. The river levels should hold steady, however, water temperatures will warm. With the tremendous efforts that have been made over the last few years, let’s not lose sight of what’s important and continue to protect this fishery. We’ll keep an eye out as water temps rise, as we encourage all of you to do the same. Get out early or chase some high alpine fish that are benefiting from colder water temps….you’ll be happy you did. 

September Brings Beauty and New Bites

As September nears, the conditions for fishing trips will progressively improve. The temperatures will cool, the salmon run will begin, brown trout behavior will turn aggressive, and the rainbows will work their way up the Gunnison River from Blue Mesa Reservoir. With the foliage turning to a golden canvas, it’s hard to beat a float down the Gunnison River. We still have some fall availability for fishing trips, which is arguably the most magical season here in Colorado. For those needing an escape from the heat, or perhaps a fall fly fishing retreat, our doors are open.

We hope to see you soon as your fishing guides, and in the meantime, stay tuned for next month’s fishing report for Colorado.