ANGLING FOR A TROUT con't
Only 322 miles of Colorado's 9000 miles of trout streams and three lakes, carry the "Gold Medal" signature. These fishing areas have been designated by the Colorado Wildlife Commission as providing great spots to catch those large trout. The waters are defined as being able to produce 60 pounds of trout per acre, and at least twelve 14" or larger trout per acre. Can you imagine?!!!
The Gunnison River, with particular emphasis on the Black Canyon, is well known for its trophy brown and rainbow trout fishing. A number of fish over 16 inches can be caught in a day and 20+ inchers are not uncommon. You’ll also find Bluehead Sucker, Colorado Cutthroat Trout, Flannelmouth Sucker, Long-nose Sucker, Mottled Sculpin, Speckled Dace and White Sucker in local rivers. The middle stretch of the river, between Crystal Creek and the confluence with North Fork, is most popular for trophy hunters but the section is accessible only by foot.
Most Gold Medal waters are catch and release, artificial lure and fly only, and those that do allow taking fish, usually limit the bag to two (one of which can be greater than 20 inches, and one that must be less than 12 inches – essentially limiting the take to one ‘trophy’ since nobody really wants to keep a 12 inch fish). The best idea is to memorialize that ‘big fish’ in pictures that will last a lifetime.
Anglers seeking a secluded experience can hike one of the inner canyon routes but due to the steep, rocky terrain, these extremely difficult scrambles should only be attempted by those in excellent physical condition. You can access the river through the Gunnison Gorge Conservation Area, just East of Delta, using the Chukar, Bobcat, Duncan or Ute trails. Roads to these trails are dirt which can be impassible in wet conditions so 4-wheel drive is recommended.
For a more relaxed fishing experience you might want to contract with a local outfitter, such as Gunnison River Expeditions. They provide guide service, shuttle service and specialize in wilderness float fishing and walk/wade trips with some of the area’s most experienced fly-fishing guides. If an extended stay is in your plan they can accommodate multi-day trips as well. Head west from Hotchkiss approximately 7 miles, on Hwy 92 to the Gunnison Gorge entrance and follow the road down to the river and the Pleasure Park. You’ll find lots of information about fishing on the Gunnison.
If your visit includes the whole family or if fishing is a new hobby you’re looking to explore, before you hit the water you may want to pay a visit to the Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery, just a few miles west of Hotchkiss. If you wonder where some of the scaly wildlife of western lakes and rivers started their journey to the river, this will be an interesting stop for you. The Hatchery’s visitor’s center is open daily (except Sunday) and for information call 970-872-3170. They welcome visitors and the kids will enjoy seeing all those fish up close and personal.
Colorado fishing licenses are valid from April 1 to March 31 each year and it’s easy to obtain a license online at cpw.state.co.us/fish/buyapply. Be sure to check for local regulations at cpw.state.co.us and always remember to get permission before you attempt to fish on private lands.
Only 322 miles of Colorado's 9000 miles of trout streams and three lakes, carry the "Gold Medal" signature. These fishing areas have been designated by the Colorado Wildlife Commission as providing great spots to catch those large trout. The waters are defined as being able to produce 60 pounds of trout per acre, and at least twelve 14" or larger trout per acre. Can you imagine?!!!
The Gunnison River, with particular emphasis on the Black Canyon, is well known for its trophy brown and rainbow trout fishing. A number of fish over 16 inches can be caught in a day and 20+ inchers are not uncommon. You’ll also find Bluehead Sucker, Colorado Cutthroat Trout, Flannelmouth Sucker, Long-nose Sucker, Mottled Sculpin, Speckled Dace and White Sucker in local rivers. The middle stretch of the river, between Crystal Creek and the confluence with North Fork, is most popular for trophy hunters but the section is accessible only by foot.
Most Gold Medal waters are catch and release, artificial lure and fly only, and those that do allow taking fish, usually limit the bag to two (one of which can be greater than 20 inches, and one that must be less than 12 inches – essentially limiting the take to one ‘trophy’ since nobody really wants to keep a 12 inch fish). The best idea is to memorialize that ‘big fish’ in pictures that will last a lifetime.
Anglers seeking a secluded experience can hike one of the inner canyon routes but due to the steep, rocky terrain, these extremely difficult scrambles should only be attempted by those in excellent physical condition. You can access the river through the Gunnison Gorge Conservation Area, just East of Delta, using the Chukar, Bobcat, Duncan or Ute trails. Roads to these trails are dirt which can be impassible in wet conditions so 4-wheel drive is recommended.
For a more relaxed fishing experience you might want to contract with a local outfitter, such as Gunnison River Expeditions. They provide guide service, shuttle service and specialize in wilderness float fishing and walk/wade trips with some of the area’s most experienced fly-fishing guides. If an extended stay is in your plan they can accommodate multi-day trips as well. Head west from Hotchkiss approximately 7 miles, on Hwy 92 to the Gunnison Gorge entrance and follow the road down to the river and the Pleasure Park. You’ll find lots of information about fishing on the Gunnison.
If your visit includes the whole family or if fishing is a new hobby you’re looking to explore, before you hit the water you may want to pay a visit to the Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery, just a few miles west of Hotchkiss. If you wonder where some of the scaly wildlife of western lakes and rivers started their journey to the river, this will be an interesting stop for you. The Hatchery’s visitor’s center is open daily (except Sunday) and for information call 970-872-3170. They welcome visitors and the kids will enjoy seeing all those fish up close and personal.
Colorado fishing licenses are valid from April 1 to March 31 each year and it’s easy to obtain a license online at cpw.state.co.us/fish/buyapply. Be sure to check for local regulations at cpw.state.co.us and always remember to get permission before you attempt to fish on private lands.