Colorado
Black Canyon Anglers
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Trip Summary
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's It For?
Remote wilderness float fishing
Explore the Gunnison Gorge, a wild trout fishery accessible only by hiking into the canyon and floating downstream through miles of beautiful water.
Legendary Salmonfly hatch
Fish one of the West’s most famous hatches as giant stoneflies bring big Brown and Rainbow Trout crashing dry flies.
Immersive canyon camping experience
Spend three unforgettable days floating, fishing, and camping beneath the towering walls of the Gunnison Gorge.
Comfortable lodge basecamp
Start and finish your adventure at the welcoming BCA lodge, known for excellent meals, cozy cabins, and private river access.
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
WHY BOOK WITH TRIDENT
- No Credit Card Fees
- Same Price as Booking Direct
- Earn Trident Rewards
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.
2026
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
Gallery
Seasonal Fishing
Calendar
Early season conditions are largely driven by snowmelt runoff, which can bring high flows and turbid water in average or wet years. During drier years, however, the river can fish surprisingly well even during runoff. June marks the legendary Salmonfly hatch, when massive stoneflies the size of your pinky finger bring large trout to the surface. These highly anticipated dates are coveted by anglers and often sell out a year in advance.
Mid-summer typically brings stable medium flows that are ideal for both float fishing and wading. Trout feed actively on caddis, Pale Morning Duns (PMDs), and a variety of terrestrial insects along grassy banks. Hopper-dropper rigs are especially effective during this period, making for classic Western dry fly fishing in the canyon’s riffles, runs, and pocket water.
Autumn brings lower flows, cooler temperatures, and excellent fishing conditions throughout the gorge. Nymphing and streamer fishing become increasingly productive as trout feed aggressively ahead of winter. While dry fly opportunities become less consistent as water temperatures cool, this time of year offers beautiful scenery, reduced fishing pressure, and a peaceful wilderness experience on the river.
Lodging & Accommodations
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 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.
Target Species
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
5-Day Itinerary
Each day is carefully planned to maximize your fishing success while experiencing the best of what this destination has to offer. Itineraries are flexible based on conditions and guest preferences.
A trip with Black Canyon Anglers begins with a flight to Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) in Montrose, Colorado. Upon arrival, guests typically rent a vehicle at the airport and drive approximately 40 minutes to the lodge. Detailed driving directions will be provided prior to your trip. Depending on what time your flight arrives, you may have the opportunity to 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.
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 that 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.
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.
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.
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 leaving. When ready, guests will drive approximately 40 minutes back to Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) for their departing flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
GET IN TOUCHBlack 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Medical emergencies and evacuations can happen in remote destinations, which is why we strongly recommend enrolling with Global Rescue before your trip. Global Rescue provides industry-leading medical and security evacuation services, and they also offer comprehensive travel insurance plans serviced through IMG. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to secure both emergency evacuation coverage and travel insurance through a single provider, helping ensure you’re protected if something unexpected occurs before or during your trip.
