With a few cold weather systems throughout the spring, the Gunnison and Crested Butte snowmelt lasted longer than some anticipated, but is now releasing from the high elevation mountains—meaning we are going to experience an earlier and less dramatic runoff season. The fish are hungry, the summer rush hasn’t yet arrived, and early summer brings prime conditions to the region’s legendary rivers.
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Guided Adventures
May 27, 2025
Fly Fishing the Gunnison Valley: Spring to Fall Tactics and Seasonal Highlights
Early Season Tactics: Pre-Runoff Fishing on the Gunnison
As temperatures rise in May and June, the Gunnison Valley’s aquatic ecosystem begins to wake up. Trout remain in deeper pools and softer water, gradually shifting into riffles and shallower feeding lanes as the water warms up.
Your best bet this time of year is nymphing in slower runs and tailouts, using a two-fly rig with a flashy attractor up top and a natural trailing pattern. Expect to encounter blue-winged olives, midges, small stoneflies, and a few surprises depending on water temps and weather.
Productive Early-Season Patterns:
- Stonefly Nymphs (10–14) – Black, Coffee, Brown
- San Juan Worms (14–16) – Blood Red, Pink
- D-Midge (18–20) – Purple/Black, Red
- Zebra Midge (18–20) – Black
- Juju Baetis (18–20) – Black, Brown
- Pheasant Tail Nymphs (16–18)
- Rainbow Warrior (16–18)
- Barr’s Emerger BWO (14–16)
- Comparadun BWO (14–18)
- Hare’s Ear & Adams (14–18)
Keep a close eye on the weather and local watershed data—as snowmelt continues, some main river sections may become temporarily unfishable due to runoff. Fortunately, this valley offers incredible diversity and plenty of productive tributaries and tailwaters to keep you on the water no matter the conditions.
Post-Runoff Stabilization: Dry Fly Season
By late June, runoff subsides and conditions stabilize—ushering in one of our favorite times to fish in the Gunnison Valley. Mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies emerge, creating chaotic feeding frenzies. Dry fly enthusiasts will be in heaven, though it may take a few fly changes to figure out what trout are keyed in on.
Later in the Year
Why Fall Fishing in the Gunnison Valley Shouldn’t Be Missed
As summer comes to a close, the Gunnison Valley quietly transforms. Foliage turns gold, temperatures drop, and crowds thin—making fall a favorite among seasoned anglers.
In September and October, Kokanee salmon begin migrating up the Gunnison River from Blue Mesa Reservoir, drawing large rainbow trout eager to feast on their eggs. This egg pattern bite can be red-hot. Meanwhile, aggressive brown trout are preparing to spawn, making fall the perfect time to throw streamers and trigger territorial strikes.
For those still dreaming of dries, fall brings waves of Red Quills, March Browns, BWOs, and midges, keeping surface action alive well into the season.
The Gunnison Gorge Multi-Day Float
The Gunnison River float trip through the Gunnison Gorge is a must for anglers seeking a multi-day trip. Offered in partnership with RIGS Fly Shop, this guided experience takes you through towering canyon walls over 2,000 feet high, combining epic trout fishing with stunning scenery.
Whether you’re stripping streamers through boulder-laced runs or casting to rising fish at dusk, this float is among Colorado’s most iconic fly fishing journeys—and your guide will be sure to remind you to look up and enjoy the view between casts.
Plan Your Trip
From spring nymphing to peak summer hatches and fall streamer bites, the Gunnison Valley offers something for every serious angler. Our experienced guide team is ready to help you navigate the seasons, select the right flies, and make the most of every moment on the water.
Contact us today to secure your dates and discover why so many anglers return to Crested Butte and Gunnison year after year.
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