Brown Trout

For anglers chasing brown trout near Lake City, Colorado, the Gunnison River and its tributaries offer a rewarding challenge. Browns are known to be more selective than rainbows, so a stealthy approach is crucial. Fall is an excellent time to target them, as they become more active in preparation for spawning. Focus on deeper pools, undercut banks, and areas with submerged structure. Streamers, fished with a sinking line, can be very effective for enticing larger browns. A key local tip is to explore the smaller, less-pressured tributaries that feed into the Gunnison. These streams often hold surprisingly large browns. Also, be prepared to adapt your tactics based on water clarity; if the water is clear, use lighter tippet and smaller flies. Browns in this area are known for their aggressive takes and powerful runs, so be ready for a fight.