The Gunnison River is legendary among fly fishers, and for good reason. Its Gold Medal waters draw anglers from all over the world. But with that fame comes pressure. Sometimes, the real magic lies just off the beaten path, in the smaller, less-frequented streams where wild trout thrive. Exploring these lesser-known tributaries offers a different kind of reward. It’s about the quiet solitude of a remote canyon, the thrill of discovery, and the satisfaction of landing a truly wild fish that has rarely seen a fly. If you’re willing to trade a bit of convenience for an unforgettable adventure, branching out from the main river is well worth the effort. So, what makes a stream “lesser-known”? For us, it’s a combination of factors: challenging access, lighter crowds, exceptional fish quality, and breathtaking scenery. These are the places that don’t show up on every fishing map but hold a special place in the hearts of local anglers. Here are five of our favorite hidden gems around the Gunnison area that offer fantastic wild trout fishing.
1. Cochetopa Creek
- Location: It is within the Saguache and Gunnison counties. Its access is off Highway 114, south of Gunnison near the Cochetopa Pass and through the Cochetopa Canyon.
- Trout Species: Primarily wild brown trout, with some brook trout in the upper reaches. The browns here are known for their vibrant colors.
- Best Time of Year: Late spring through fall (May-October). The summer hopper season can be particularly exciting.
- Key Gear & Flies: A 3- or 4-weight rod is perfect. Pack caddis, PMDs, grasshopper patterns, and small bead-head nymphs like the Pheasant Tail or Hare’s Ear.
- Difficulty: The hiking is generally easy to moderate, but wading can be tricky in spots with undercut banks and deep pools.
2. Little Cimarron River
- Location: East of Montrose, within the Curecanti National Recreation Area.
- Trout Species: A healthy population of wild rainbow and brown trout, with some cutthroats mixed in.
- Best Time of Year: Summer and early fall (July-September), after the spring runoff has subsided. However, it is important to check on local irrigation diversions before scheduling a trip.
- Key Gear & Flies: A versatile 4- or 5-weight rod works well. Focus on attractor dry flies like a Royal Wulff or a Parachute Adams, along with some stonefly nymphs.
- Difficulty: Access requires a bit of a hike, but it’s not overly strenuous. The river itself is small and easy to wade.
3. Anthracite Creek
- Location: North of Paonia, near the Raggeds Wilderness Area.
- Trout Species: This creek is a haven for wild cutthroat and rainbow trout.
- Best Time of Year: Mid-summer to early fall is ideal when water levels are stable and accessible.
- Key Gear & Flies: A lightweight 3-weight rod is all you need. Small dry flies like a Blue-Winged Olive or an Elk Hair Caddis are effective.
- Difficulty: This is a more technical fishery. Access involves navigating some rugged terrain, and the wading can be challenging with slick rocks.
4. Soap Creek
- Location: Flows into the west end of Blue Mesa Reservoir, accessible via the Soap Creek Campground.
- Trout Species: Known for holding some surprisingly large brown trout that move up from the reservoir, along with resident rainbows.
- Best Time of Year: The spring and fall runs are the main event, particularly in May and October.
- Key Gear & Flies: A 5-weight rod gives you the power to handle larger fish. Streamers like a black Woolly Bugger can be very effective, as can egg patterns during the fall.
- Difficulty: The hike is moderate. Wading is relatively straightforward in the lower sections, but be prepared for changing conditions.
5. Steuben Creek
- Location: A small tributary of the Gunnison River, located below the town of Gunnison.
- Trout Species: Holds a strong population of wild brown trout.
- Best Time of Year: Summer (June-August) provides the most consistent action.
- Key Gear & Flies: This is small-stream fishing at its finest. A 2- or 3-weight rod is ideal. Use terrestrial patterns like ants and beetles, along with small mayfly dries.
- Difficulty: Access is easy, but the creek is tight with overgrown banks, requiring precise, technical casting.
Conservation & Access
Before you head out, remember that many of these streams flow through a mix of public and private land. Always respect property boundaries. Familiarize yourself with current regulations, as some areas may have special catch-and-release rules. Most importantly, practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the wild beauty of these special places.
Get the Local Advantage
Finding these hidden spots is half the battle; knowing how to fish them is the other half. Seasonal conditions, water levels, and insect hatches can change quickly. This is where a local guide becomes invaluable.
At Gunnison Fly Fishing Outfitters, we specialize in taking anglers to the spots they might not find on their own. Our guides have the deep local knowledge needed to ensure a safe, successful, and memorable day on the water.
Ready for an Adventure?
If you’re eager to explore beyond the crowds and discover the wild heart of Gunnison’s fishery, we’re here to help. Book a guided trip with us, and let’s find your new favorite fishing spot together.