Gunnison River Fishing Report: Small Bugs Are the Ticket Right Now
Gunnison River Fishing Report — Small Bugs Are the Ticket
If you're heading to the Gunnison River this week, make sure your fly box is loaded with small bugs — that was absolutely the key for us today. I'm Trent Jones with Glenwood Springs Outdoors, and we spent the day on the Gunnison putting together this fishing report. Overall the fishing was really solid, though overnight flow changes added a challenge.
Gunnison River Flows Dropped Overnight
One of the biggest factors we dealt with today was an overnight drop in flows out of the Gunnison system. Current flows below the Gunnison Tunnel were sitting around 328 CFS — well below seasonal averages for mid-May. That drop had fish displaced and repositioning out of their usual seams and buckets, especially early in the morning under bluebird skies and clear water conditions. When flows fluctuate quickly on the Gunnison, trout get uncomfortable fast, and it took some adjusting to track them down.
What Flies Are Working on the Gunnison Right Now
Midges and Baetis (Small Bugs)
Small bugs were the deal all day. We had a solid midge hatch first thing in the morning, and size 20 Baetis patterns produced fish throughout most of the day. The trout were keyed in on tiny, natural presentations — clean drifts made all the difference. If you're heading to the Gunnison this week, don't overlook the small stuff. Sizes 20–22 are getting eaten.
Yellow Sallies
Yellow Sallies were showing up throughout the day and worked well under the indicator. Fish weren't aggressively rising, but they were willing to eat smaller Yellow Sally nymphs when presented correctly.
Streamers
Streamer fishing wasn't lights out, but we did move a few fish on smaller white streamers. With lower, clearer water, downsizing is key — nothing too flashy or oversized was necessary today.
Dry Flies
Dry fly fishing was tough for us overall. Bugs were around, but fish weren't consistently committing on the surface. That said, conditions on the Gunnison can change quickly this time of year with fluctuating releases and warming afternoon temps — keep a dry-dropper rig handy.
Final Takeaways for Your Gunnison River Trip
All in all, it was a great day on the water despite the overnight flow drop. The biggest lesson right now: stay adaptable. Fish are moving with changing water levels, and small bug presentations are making the biggest difference. Match the midge, keep your drifts clean, and downsize everything.
Need the latest Gunnison River conditions, flies, or gear before your next trip? Stop by Glenwood Springs Outdoors at 831 Grand Ave, Glenwood Springs, CO — we'll get you dialed in.