Colorado · Fishing
Fishing in gunnison, Colorado
Gunnison sits at 7,703 feet in a high-altitude valley that holds a surprising variety of fishing water.
12 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 12 spots
Gunnison sits at 7,703 feet in a high-altitude valley that holds a surprising variety of fishing water. Most of the spots listed here fall into two categories: the reservoir and pond fisheries scattered across the surrounding public lands, and the river and creek access points along drainages like Cochetopa Creek and the Lake Fork. Lake fishing dominates the lineup, with sites ranging from the day-use setup at McDonough Reservoir to campground-based access at Elk Creek, Stevens Creek, and Lake Fork Campground, where you can fish in the morning before the afternoon wind picks up. Cochetopa Creek Rec Site and Stone Cellar Guard Station give you moving-water options if you prefer working a current. The elevation and the region's short growing season mean fish tend to run smaller on average than lower-elevation Colorado waters, but the crowds are also thinner, especially mid-week. Most of these sites are on or near Curecanti National Recreation Area or Gunnison National Forest land, so a Colorado fishing license is required and some areas have specific gear or bag-limit rules worth checking before you load the truck. Late June through September is the most reliable window, though ice-off on the higher reservoirs can push that opener into early summer depending on the year.
Frequently asked questions
What types of fishing are available near Gunnison?
The majority of listed sites are lake and reservoir fisheries, including McDonough Reservoir, Lower Dome Reservoir, Vouga Reservoir, and Paddle Boat Pond. If you want moving water, Cochetopa Creek Rec Site and Stone Cellar Guard Station both offer river fishing access on creek and stream-type water.
Do I need a Colorado fishing license to fish these spots?
Yes. All of these sites are on public land where a valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Pick one up through Colorado Parks and Wildlife before you arrive, since there are no license vendors in the immediate vicinity of most of these sites.
What is the best time of year to fish around Gunnison?
Late June through early September is the most consistent window. At this elevation, some of the higher reservoirs may still have ice into late May or early June depending on snowpack. Fall fishing in September can be productive as well, but afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, so plan to be on the water early.
Are these spots good for beginners or families?
Several of them are well-suited for beginners. Paddle Boat Pond and the day-use area at McDonough Reservoir offer straightforward bank fishing without technical water to read. The campground-based sites like Elk Creek Campground and East Elk Creek Group Campsite are also family-friendly since you can set up camp and fish without a long hike in.
Can I camp at these fishing spots?
Many of them include or are adjacent to campgrounds. Elk Creek Campground, Stevens Creek Campground, Lake Fork Campground, East Elk Creek Group Campsite, and Red Creek Group Site all have camping. Stone Cellar Guard Station also has overnight options. Check recreation.gov or the Curecanti NRA site for reservation requirements, since group sites in particular tend to book up in summer.
