Willowfly Anglers is a fly fishing outfitter located at Three Rivers Resort in Almont, Colorado, where the East and Taylor Rivers converge to form the Gunnison River. Its location in the heart of the Gunnison River drainage makes it an ideal home base for daily fly fishing adventures including float fishing the Gunnison River or walk/wade fishing the many tributary streams or lakes in the area. The guides at Willowfly Anglers are knowledgeable professionals who can help anglers of all ability levels achieve success. At this beautiful family-owned resort, you can choose from several lodging options to fit any group size, budget, and level of amenities. Each trip is a bespoke experience, built exclusively for your group and their unique goals and preferences. For anglers and families seeking a convenient location that offers exceptional fishing access and lots of flexibility in planning a custom itinerary, Willowfly Anglers at Three Rivers Resort is a wonderful option.
Who It’s For
Trout anglers
Fishing-oriented families, couples, and groups
When To Go
The fishing season in the Upper Gunnison drainage is from April through mid-October. The early season in April can offer excellent pre-runoff conditions with low, clear flows and uncrowded river sections. This is a great time to focus on bigger Rainbow Trout with minimal fishing pressure. From May through June is the runoff period and typically sees higher flows and off-color water. However, the Golden Stonefly hatch occurs in June, with healthy numbers of large stoneflies keeping trout on the feed. If timed correctly, the early season can offer some of the most productive 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. The Green Drake hatch occurs in July and is one of the most productive dry fly windows of the season. 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 and nymph fishing.
Rainbow Trout
The wild Rainbow Trout of the Upper 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 20 inches.
Brown Trout
The Gunnison River features dense populations of wild Brown Trout which can range in size from 10 inches to well over 18 inches. Although anglers can target browns using a variety of techniques, the most memorable eats come from throwing bushy dry flies during a hatch.
Boats
On the Upper Gunnison, you’ll be fishing out of western-style drift boats or fully-equipped fishing rafts. These boats are stable and feature clean casting decks, rod storage, and gear storage.
Equipment
Successful fishing in the Gunnison Valley only requires a few rods with matching reels. We recommend bringing 3 rods: a 9’ 3-4wt for dry flies or wading smaller creeks, a 9’ 5wt for dry/dropper rigs, 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 Willowfly Anglers
A trip with Willowfly Anglers begins with a flight to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) in Gunnison, Colorado. Once you’ve arrived in Gunnison, you’ll either rent a vehicle or take a pre-arranged shuttle about 20 minutes to the lodge. Depending on when your flight arrives, you can fish the private water of the Taylor River on the property. After fishing, you can settle into your cabin and prepare for the next day’s fishing, enjoy a meal at the Smokehouse Restaurant, or drive to Gunnison or Crested Butte for dinner.
Days 2 - 4: The Fishing Days
The next morning, you can prepare breakfast in your cabin, or enjoy breakfast at the lodge or in Gunnison before departing for the river with your guide. Transportation is provided by your guide, beginning and ending at the Willowfly Anglers fly shop, just a short walk from your cabin. Daily fishing adventures could include float-fishing the Gunnison River, or wade-fishing one of the area’s streams, creeks, tailwaters, or lakes. By midday, your guide will serve a hearty cooler lunch, allowing you to rest and rehydrate. After an afternoon fishing session, your guide will return you to Three Rivers Resort, where you can relax at your cabin, head to Crested Butte or Gunnison for dinner, or wade fish on the Taylor River.
Day 5: From Willowfly Anglers to Home
The next morning, you can 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 or drive approximately 20 minutes to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC). From there, you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.
Note: All packages are customizable in length and inclusions. Three Rivers Resort does not have set arrival and departure days.
Accommodations
Three Rivers Resort offers several styles of lodging accommodations ranging from rustic fishing cabins to 5-bedroom vacation homes. Depending on the size of your group and your desired amenities, there’s an option to meet your needs. All cabins feature a full kitchen, bedding, towels, and cookware. Riverside cabins allow for direct access to the Taylor River on the property. Some cabins also feature a private hot tub overlooking the Taylor River - a delightful place to wind down after a long day on the water.
In addition to fly fishing trips, Three Rivers Resort offers guided whitewater rafting trips, guided kayaking trips, a full-service fly shop, and a general store with basic grocery items.
Food
Fishing packages do not include meals, except for lunches on full-day fishing trips. You may choose to prepare meals in your cabin, or enjoy the many restaurants in Gunnison and Crested Butte.
The Smokehouse is an on-site summertime BBQ restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from June through September. Enjoy delicious smoked meats, sandwiches, desserts, and cold cocktails from the well-stocked bar in a casual patio setting.
Connectivity
Complimentary WiFi is available at Three Rivers Resort. 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.
2025 Fishing Packages
Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. Quoted rates are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.
Packages are customizable. Contact us for the most current pricing.
What's Included:
What's Not Included:
What skill level is required for this trip?
Willowfly 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 to Colorado?
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. Additionally, 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?
All packages with Willowfly Anglers are customizable for your group, so they can be as physically challenging as you prefer. For those who prefer a less physical trip, floating the Gunnison River covers lots of water without the need for any wade fishing. For those who prefer to wade, walk/wade trips can focus on high-country streams where hiking in remote areas is necessary.
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. During prime conditions, it is not uncommon for an angler to catch 20 or more fish in a day. Big fish are possible at any time of the season on the Gunnison River and many of its tributaries.
What class of whitewater rapids are there?
The Upper Gunnison River has very few rapids, as it mostly meanders through ranchland lined with cottonwood trees. Your expert guides prioritize safety and will prepare you well ahead of time for any approaching rapids.
Is Willowfly Anglers Family Friendly?
Yes! Willowfly Anglers is one of the best family-friendly operations in Colorado. The property at Three Rivers Resort offers various styles of lodging to fit the size and needs of your group. Additionally, Three Rivers offers daily whitewater rafting trips in the summertime, ranging from mellow class II floats to exciting class III trips on the Taylor River. The Gunnison Valley also offers great shopping, horseback riding tours, ATV tours, and excellent dining options.
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 the Colorado high country is extremely variable. Summer temperatures can be warm, with average highs around 85 degrees F. Spring and Fall weather can be unpredictable, with high's in the 60's or lows dipping to well below freezing. Winter is long and harsh at high elevations, with considerable snowfall and consistent freezing temperatures. 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.