Gunnison River Fishing Report

The Gunnison River is located in Southwestern Colorado just north of Montrose.  It lies in the heart of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.  The Gunnison River is known for its breathtaking scenery.  It flows between a black granite and red sandstone double canyon.  

The Gunnison River is home to large rainbow and brown trout.  The state wildlife commission has designated the Gunnison River as Gold Medal Water and Wild Trout Water.  Gold Medal Water denotes that the river provides excellent angling opportunities for large trout.   

The Gunnison River has numerous fishing opportunities and can be fished year-round.    

Gunnison River – East Portal:  The East Portal section of the Gunnison River can be found on the eastern side of Black Canyon National Park.  It is accessible from the South Rim of Black Canyon National Park.  The road that takes you to the East Portal section is two-way and paved but is steep and windy.  The road is closed in winter (usually from November to April).

Latest Fishing Information - The road to the East Portal section of the Gunnison River is closed for the winter due to ice and snow.  We recommend fishing the Pleasure Park section until the East Portal section is open for the season.  

Gunnison River – Pleasure Park:  The Pleasure Park section of the Gunnison River lies to the northwest of Black Canyon National Park.  It is a 16 mile stretch that starts at the confluence of the Gunnison River and Smith Fork and ends at Highway 65.  Its primary access point is the confluence of the Gunnison River and North Fork River which is south of Highway 92 on 28.10 Road.  The road (28.10 Road) that takes you to the Pleasure Park section is two-way and paved.  

Latest Fishing Information - 

Flow 

624 CFS 

Temperature 

66.2 °F 

Water Clarity 

Clear