If just wetting a line in the Crested Butte area’s wilderness isn’t enough, add in some of the best trout fishing in the world, incredible mountain valleys, and Colorado sunshine. Nearby mountain streams, rivers, and lakes offer great catches in the spring, summer, and fall with Rainbow, Brown, Brook, and Cutthroat trout taking up the waters.
Whether it is float, wade, dry, or lake fishing, the Crested Butte area is one of the best places in world to cast your line. Professional guides in the area can provide local knowledge, current river conditions, transportation, guided trips, and more.
East River
The East River stretches about 35 miles from Emerald Lake south to its meeting place with the Taylor River, turning into the Gunnison River in Almont. Most of this water is private. There is a generous population of trout that call this beautiful winding river home, and the yearly spring release of Kokanee Salmon are Catch and Release straight from the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery.
Taylor River
The Taylor provides 20 miles of upper river fishing and 20 miles of lower river fishing that is separated by private property. Stemming from the Taylor Reservoir are numerous feeder creeks all along the main stream, which hold an array of trout. The Lower Taylor cuts through one of the most beautiful river canyons in the area, and is filled with some fat fish if you can wait them out.
Gunnison River
The East and Taylor run into each other in Almont and become the Upper Gunnison. The 23 mile stretch is home to a variety of trout with numerous hatches occurring throughout the summer months to make this a must stop in the valley.
Black Canyon
The Gunnison River carves its way through the Black Canyon creating a jaw dropping National Park sought out by many tourists and locals alike. Filled with prestigious climbing, fishing, and boating, this canyon is a bucket-list cast.
Blue Mesa
Colorado’s largest body of water is home to trophy trout fishing and Kokanee Salmon. Blue Mesa allows year round fishing and big catches. Cut some ice or hang out in the sun with a few other enthusiasts.
The Backcountry
It may seem like the fishing spots are endless, that’s because they are. Numerous creeks, streams, and high mountain lakes set the stage for your perfect catch. So pack your waders, rod, and flies, and throw a line out in the backcountry.
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Crested Butte Shops
Dragonfly Anglers
307 Elk Avenue, Crested Butte, CO 81224
(800) 491-3079 • Website • Map
Crested Butte Angler
413 Elk Avenue, Crested Butte, CO 81224
(970) 349-1568 • Website • Map
Almont Shops
Three Rivers Resort
130 CR 742, Almont, CO 81210
(970) 641-1303 • Website • Map
Almont Anglers
10209 CO-135, Almont, CO 81210
(970) 641-7404 • Website • Map
Willowfly Anglers
130 County Road 742, Almont, CO 81210
(970) 641-1330 • Website • Map
Gunnison Shops
Gunnison River Fly Shop
300 North Main Street, Gunnison, CO 81230
(970) 641-2930 • Website • Map
Gene Taylor’s Sporting Goods
201 West Tomichi, Gunnison, CO 81230
(970) 641-1845 • Website • Map
Featured Lodging
Three Rivers Resort is located in the historic mountain town of Almont, Colorado on the Taylor River about 20 miles south of Crested Butte. The resort features cabins dating back to the 1800’s, which are a short walk from the merging of the Taylor and East Rivers to form the Gunnison River. Offering a hotel, solo cabins with personal hot tubs, RV spots and more.
