FISHABLE
Low winter flows, excellent clarity in the GorgeGunnison River
Current Hatch Activity
Winter midge activity in the Gorge. Fish are feeding in riffles at current low flows. BWOs sporadically on warmer days.
FISHABLE
Streamer (Slumpbuster, Sculpzilla) or nymph rig (Stonefly + Midge)
Quick Reference
300-600 CFS ideal for wade fishing. Drift boat conditions moderate above 450 CFS, easy above 800 CFS. Lower flows require rafts or pontoons.
42-58°F year-round in tailwater sections. Dam releases keep temps stable—no thermal stress concerns.
Multiple sections with different characters. Pine Creek tailwater below Blue Mesa. Black Canyon/Gorge section below Crystal Dam. Flows regulated but can vary 325-5,000 CFS.
Exceptional clarity in the Gorge section—crystal clear at low flows. Upper sections can be affected by tributary runoff.
What "Fishable" Means Here
Technically a tailwater but fishes like a freestone with prolific hatches. The Gorge section within Black Canyon National Park offers trophy potential. Wade access opens up at lower flows (under 400 CFS).
Seasonal Patterns
spring
March through May sees excellent fishing before flows increase. Midges and BWOs dominate. Stonefly nymphs become effective as water warms.
summer
Flows typically peak late May to early June. Post-runoff brings caddis, PMDs, and Golden Stones. The Gorge fishes well all summer due to cold dam releases.
fall
September through November is prime time. Browns get aggressive in the Gorge. Streamers produce trophy fish. BWOs provide consistent dry fly action.
winter
Low flows (300-400 CFS) open wade access in the Gorge. Fish concentrate in predictable lies. Midges and small nymphs. Cold but exceptional fishing for dedicated anglers.
Alerts
Alternative Waters
Taylor River
Nearby tailwater with easier access and consistent fishingArkansas River
Colorado's other major tailwater/freestone systemResources
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