Black Canyon Anglers

For avid trout anglers, a float trip down the Gunnison Gorge with Black Canyon Anglers is the adventure of a lifetime. Located in southwest Colorado, the Gunnison River is widely considered to be the best trout fishery in the lower 48. Here, anglers will find dense populations of Rainbow and Brown Trout, prolific hatches, and abundant wildlife. This remote section of the Gunnison is only accessible by hiking or by mule, resulting in miles of unpressured trout water to be explored. BCA gives anglers access to this untapped fishery through 3-day wilderness float trips, where anglers will camp for 2 nights under the steep walls of the gorge. Each day, your expert guides will serve as fly fishing experts, whitewater oarsmen, and camp chefs as they guide you to a downstream river camp. The lodge provides a home base before and after the float and boasts comfortable accommodations, exquisite cuisine, and private fishing access. For anglers seeking a remote wilderness float with exceptional trout fishing and fantastic accommodations, there is no finer operation than Black Canyon Anglers.

Who It’s For

•  Adventurous trout anglers
•  Fishing-oriented couples/groups

When To Go

The fishing season in the Gunnison Gorge is from mid-May through early October. The early season from May through June is the runoff period and typically sees higher flows and off-color water. However, the famed salmonfly hatch occurs in June, with prolific numbers of jumbo stoneflies bringing trophy trout to the surface. If timed correctly, the early season offers some of the best dry fly fishing of the year. During the summer months of July and August, the river offers medium flows, consistent caddis and mayfly hatches, and warm days. Dry-dropper fishing is common in the summer, targeting plump trout in riffles and pocket water. September brings the autumn season and offers anglers lower flows, cooler temperatures, and exciting streamer fishing.

Rainbow Trout

The wild Rainbow Trout of the Gunnison River are known for their vigor and stamina, fueled by the river’s healthy aquatic insect population. The rainbows here are often found in quick riffles and runs feeding on nymphs and emergers. Your expert guides will know the hot spots for targeting these beautiful trout, which can range in size from 10 inches to over 25 inches.

Brown Trout

The Gunnison River features dense populations of wild brown trout which can range in size from 10 inches to well over 20 inches. Although anglers can target browns using a variety of techniques, the most memorable eats come from throwing big foamy hoppers or meaty streamers along the grassy banks.

Boats

In the Gunnison Gorge, you’ll be fishing out of 14-foot Hyside inflatable rafts. The rafts also carry all the camping equipment, which means they are not equipped with a full fishing frame. Anglers will typically fish from sitting to ensure comfort and stability. 

Equipment

Successful fishing in the Gunnison Gorge only requires a couple of rods with matching reels. We recommend bringing 2 rods: a 9’ 5wt for dry flies, and a 9’ 6wt for nymphing and streamers. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

Day 1: From Home to Black Canyon Anglers

A trip with Black Canyon Anglers begins with a flight to the Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) in Montrose, Colorado. Once you’ve arrived in Montrose, you’ll take a pre-arranged shuttle about 40 minutes to the lodge. Depending on what time your flight arrives, you can fish the private water of the Gunnison River on property. After fishing, you can settle into your cabin, prepare your camping and fishing gear, and enjoy a fabulous meal. 

Day 2: Launch Day and Fishing the Gunnison

The next morning, you’ll enjoy breakfast at the lodge before departing for the river with your guides. Transportation is provided over a rough 4x4 road to the rim of the canyon. The Gunnison Gorge is unique as there is no road access to the river. Everyone hikes the moderate 1.1-mile Chukar Trail from the rim to the river while carrying their personal gear on their backs (river dry bags with shoulder straps are provided). Once at the river, you will find the boats and equipment which were packed in via mule the day before. You will float fish downstream, breaking for a hearty riverside lunch mid-day. By the late afternoon, you will arrive at your first camp, where your guides will set up camp and prepare an incredible meal. After dinner, feel free to wade fish or enjoy stories and cocktails with friends. 

Day 3: Fishing the Gunnison

Fishing days start with strong coffee and a full camp breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Fresh riverside lunches are prepared by your guides, allowing you to eat and relax on the banks. Following an afternoon fishing session, you’ll arrive at a new camp to unwind and enjoy a fabulous meal.

Day 4: Fishing the Gunnison and Take-Out

The final float day features some of the best fishing and whitewater in the entire gorge. Class II-IV rapids such as ‘T-Dyke’, ‘Cable’, and ‘Last Chance’ will showcase your guide's technical rowing skills. The final river section eventually calms into gentle riffles and shady undercut banks, offering fantastic hopper fishing for hefty browns. The river trip ends at a private take-out, where your guides will transport you approximately 10 minutes back to the lodge. Once you’ve arrived at the lodge, you’ll enjoy a much-anticipated shower and a fabulous meal, followed by a restful night’s sleep.

Day 5: From Black Canyon Anglers to Home

The next morning, you’ll enjoy breakfast and coffee at the lodge before checking out of your cabin. Depending on when your flight departs, you are welcome to fish on the property before departing. After fishing, you’ll take a pre-arranged shuttle about 40 minutes to the Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ). From there, you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.

Accommodations

The Black Canyon Anglers Lodge features comfortable double-occupancy guest cabins, or upper cabins which can accommodate larger groups. All units feature air-conditioning, private baths, and a shaded pergola for preparing gear and lounging. The main lodge building features a large dining room with a well-stocked bar, a billiards room, satellite TV, WiFi, and a small tackle shop stocked with essential terminal tackle and productive flies. An outdoor fire pit provides a beautiful setting to enjoy stories and cocktails after dinner.

The lodge is situated on a 100-year-old working peach orchard and organic farm called Gunnison River Farms. This expansive agricultural property features 2 miles of private fishing access on the Gunnison River, as well as casting ponds. The stunning high-desert landscape surrounding the lodge is contrasted by the lush river valley below.

At each river camp, every 2 anglers will share a spacious tent with their provided sleeping pads and a warm sleeping bags. The guides will set up a kitchen area with camp chairs for lounging and socializing. Each camp is right along the river, allowing for easy access to wade fishing. Every camp in the gorge provides incredible views of the steep canyon walls and the river.

Food

At the lodge, head chef Deanna prepares exquisite seasonal dishes using meats and produce sourced directly from the farm. Dinners at the lodge include fresh salads, flavorful meats, and delicious desserts. The well-stocked bar includes wines, cocktails, and local beers. 

On the river, all meals are prepared fresh by your professional guides. Breakfasts include strong coffee and hearty options like breakfast sandwiches and quiches. Delicious lunches are prepared streamside by your guides, allowing you to relax and rehydrate with outstanding river views. Camp dinners can feature juicy steaks or salmon with fresh vegetables and desserts. Cap off the evening at camp with your favorite beverage under the Milky Way stars.

Connectivity

Complimentary WiFi is available in the lodge. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service may be available at the lodge depending on your service plan and provider. On the river, there will not be any cell service or internet.

2025 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge. 

Rates are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing. 

Double Occupancy / Shared Guide (Per Boat / 2 Anglers)

3 Nights / 2 Days = $4,700

4 Nights / 3 Days = $5,700

What's Included:

•  Guided Fishing
•  Accommodations and Meals
•  Alcoholic beverages at the lodge
•  WiFi at the lodge
•  Rental fishing equipment if needed
•  Gratuities for lodge staff
   

What's Not Included:

•  Airfare to/from Montrose, Colorado (MTJ)
•  Transfers to/from Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)
•  Fishing License (approximately $50)
•  Gratuities for guides
•  Alcoholic beverages on the river
•  Flies and terminal tackle

What skill level is required for this trip?

Black Canyon Anglers offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing your casting to get the most out of your experience.

How should I prepare for a trip down the Gunnison Gorge?

Most importantly, you should practice casting, as accuracy and presentation are paramount in trout fishing. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. Lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

How physically demanding is this trip?

This trip is moderately physical, as the 1-mile Chukar Trail from the canyon rim requires anglers to carry their personal gear in a backpack to the river. Although the hike can be quite hot depending on the weather, it is nearly all downhill. Once on the river, fishing is primarily done from the rafts. Some wading can be done throughout the day or from camp, depending on flows.

What are the bathroom facilities like on the river?

Portable river toilets, called groovers, are carried on all trips and are set up away from camp for privacy. Portable handwashing stations and hand sanitizer are always available at camp and near the groover.

How many fish can I expect to catch?

As with any fishing trip, numerous variables can influence the fishing, including flows, weather, hatches, and angler ability. Due to the lack of fishing pressure, a slow day of fishing in the Gunnison Gorge is usually still quite good compared to other western fisheries. During prime conditions, an angler boating 20 or more fish in a day is not uncommon. Big fish are possible at any time of the season.

What class of whitewater rapids are there?

The Gunnison Gorge has a handful of class II-IV rapids throughout its 14-mile journey from Chukar Trail (put-in) to Pleasure Park (take-out). Of these rapids, most are short “boulder garden” style rapids that are easily navigated by your expert guides. There are only a few rapids that feature small drops and more technical rowing, which your guide will fully prepare you for ahead of time. Typically anglers do not fish through rapids, allowing them to hold on for safety. Most anglers love the variety and excitement of the whitewater found in the Gunnison Gorge.

Is Black Canyon Anglers Family Friendly?

Black Canyon Anglers is best suited for couples or fishing-oriented groups who want a wilderness expedition. Due to the remoteness of this trip, there isn’t much else to do here other than fish and relax at camp.

How many other anglers will be there?

The Bureau of Land Management limits each launch at Chukar Trail to 12 people total (8 clients and 4 guides). This equates to 4 boats total per launch, with no more than 2 commercial launches per day. This is a very unpressured section of the river where you’ll have plenty of water to yourself the entire trip.

Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We recommend Travel Guard, a well-established insurance company offering excellent, affordable policies for angling travel.

What happens if I'm injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?

Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.

What is the weather like?

The climate in southwest Colorado is typically warm and dry, but can be quite chilly at night and during early and late season. Summer temperatures can be warm, with average highs around 85 degrees F. Lows in the spring and fall can dip into the 40's. Anglers should plan to dress in layers to stay protected from sun, wind, and possible rain anytime during the season.

Is tipping customary?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. Tipping 20 % of your trip total per person is recommended. Please plan on tipping in cash.