Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Gunnison River - Delta - Colorado

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Scuds All Day 14-18 Olive Scud, Orange Scud
February Midges Afternoon 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Scuds All Day 14-18 Olive Scud, Orange Scud
March Blue wing olives Afternoon 18-20 Rusty Spinner, Pheasant Tail
Midges Afternoon 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
April Blue wing olives Afternoon 18-20 Rusty Spinner, Pheasant Tail
Caddis All Day 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X2 Caddis
May Caddis All Day 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X2 Caddis
Stoneflies All Day 6-10 Golden Stone, Pat's Rubber Legs
June Yellow Sallies All Day 14-16 Yellow Sally, Yellow Humpy
Caddis All Day 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X2 Caddis
Stoneflies All Day 6-10 Golden Stone, Pat's Rubber Legs
July Yellow Sallies All Day 14-16 Yellow Sally, Yellow Humpy
Caddis All Day 14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, X2 Caddis
August Tiny Blue-Winged Olives Late Afternoon/Evening 18-24 BWO Emerger, RS2
Terrestrials All Day 10-20 Hopper Patterns, Ant Patterns
September Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, CDC Trico Dun
Tiny Blue-Winged Olives Late Afternoon/Evening 18-24 BWO Emerger, RS2
October Tiny Blue-Winged Olives Late Afternoon/Evening 18-24 BWO Emerger, RS2
Tricos Morning 20-24 Trico Spinner, CDC Trico Dun
November Midges Afternoon 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Scuds All Day 14-18 Olive Scud, Orange Scud
December Midges Afternoon 18-26 Black Beauty, Zebra Midge
Scuds All Day 14-18 Olive Scud, Orange Scud

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Gunnison River – Delta is a haven for fly-fishing enthusiasts. Here are the top spots for fly fishing:

  1. Gold Medal Waters: Stretching from the Crystal Dam to the River’s confluence with the North Fork, this is an optimal point for fishing large trout.
  2. Black Canyon of the Gunnison: A challenging spot with a steep gradient, perfect for experienced anglers. Rewarding with trophy-size trout.
  3. Gunnison Gorge: Famously known for its excellent quality trout, lying just below the Black Canyon.

The River is packed with Rainbow trout, Brown trout, and cutthroat. However, it is recommended to check the local fishing reports or hire a professional guide to take full advantage

  • Guided Fishing – Local guide options like Gunnison River Guides, Black Canyon Anglers, etc. are available.
  • Fly Shops: Almont Anglers, Dragonfly Anglers ensure you’re well equipped.

Best Access Points

The Gunnison River – Delta, offers several magnificent access points renowned for their fly fishing potential. They include:

  • Pleasure Park: This spot provides fishing guides and equipment rentals, perfect for first-timers.
  • Delta County Fairgrounds: In Hotchkiss, it provides ample space for shore fishing as well as convenient facilities.
  • Big Eddy: Located near Paonia, this location provides deeper pools and thrilling currents.
  • Confluence Park: Situated where the Uncompahgre and Gunnison rivers meet, this site provides an impressive variety of fish species.

Additionally, for the more adventurous, overnight fishing trips can be done at these locations:

  1. Black Canyon: Renowned for its trophy trout, though access is quite challenging due to steep terrain.
  2. Gunnison Gorge: Offering a more remote fishing experience with various species available.

Remember to verify the fishing regulations before planning your fishing trip.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: This is one of the most common types of fish fly fishers target here. Rainbow trout is known for their beautiful colorful striped skin and their fighting spirit.
  • Brown Trout: Large brown trout are a popular target for fly fishers on the Gunnison River. They are known for their reddish-brown coloring and resistance when reeled in.
  • Brook Trout: Commonly found in the cold, higher altitude sections of the Gunnison river. Brook trouts are known for their distinctive marbled pattern and flavorful meat.
  • Cutthroat Trout: A native species to the area, the Cutthroat Trout is a prized catch among fly fishers. They can be identified by the red slash that runs across their throat.
  • White Fish: While not as sought after as some other species, white fish can be a rewarding challenge to pursue. They are known to put up a strong fight when hooked.
  • Lake Trout: Also known as Mackinaws. Although they inhabit deep waters most times of the year, during spring, they swim up the rivers and are targeted by fly fishers.
  • Salmon: Kokanee salmon can be found in the Gunnison River during their annual spawning season.
  • Yellow Perch: Although not as common as the trouts, the reservoir’s population of Yellow Perch can also be targeted during certain times of the year.

About The River

The Gunnison River – Delta is a classic example of nature’s splendor. Once a substantial path for Native Americans and early explorers, it was named after Lieutenant John W. Gunnison, who scoured the area in 1853. This river now spins a lifeline for local communities, wildlife, and recreational activities like fishing & boating.

Gunnison River stretches for 164 miles, originating from Colorado’s Continental Divide. Its journey is marked by the stunning Black Canyon and Blue Mesa Reservoir, among the largest bodies of water in the state.

The river’s end is at the city of Delta, a town rich in history and culture. It’s the starting point of the Delta County Historical Society‘s walking tour. Located in the Uncompahgre valley, Delta is also known for its fertile lands and vibrant agricultural scene. Just to tell you:

  • It’s the seat of the Applefest, an annual celebration of Delta’s apple harvest.
  • The town is literally a star, featuring one of the few drive-in cinemas in Colorado.

So, imagine this River-Delta journey as an inviting road of adventure, history, and scenic beauty!

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