HOTCHKISS FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Jet-Boat Into the Gunnison Gorge — Full-Day Dory Float on Gold‑Medal Waters
Float by jet boat into the Gunnison Gorge and fish Gold Medal waters from a comfortable dory with expert guides — a full 8‑hour outing suitable for anglers of all levels.
Jet-Boat Into the Gunnison Gorge — Full-Day Dory Float on Gold‑Medal Waters.
Float into the Gunnison Gorge by jet boat, then fish Gold Medal waters from a comfortable dory with expert guides. This full‑day outing threads canyon walls and prime fishing runs in a format that welcomes beginners, families and anglers who prefer minimal hiking, making the river the central experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Jet‑boat access to remote water
The trip begins with a jet‑boat run that puts anglers into remote reaches of the Gunnison Gorge, enabling access to prime waters without a long approach—then you board a comfortable dory for guided fishing.
Gold‑Medal waters guided from a dory
Expert fly‑fishing guides run the dory so anglers of all skill levels can fish prime runs; the dory’s stability makes the day comfortable for those who can’t do much hiking.
Canyon walls and river solitude
The float takes you into the Gunnison Gorge where you’ll see the famous rock cliff walls and the dramatic canyon setting that frames the fishing.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You board a morning jet boat with your fishing gear and are run upriver—then, about four miles up at the Smith Fork drop‑off, you transfer into a dory where a professional fly‑fishing guide runs the float. The rhythm of the day is boat transit, guided dory fishing through canyon reaches and views of the Gunnison Gorge’s rock cliffs.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip fits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your fishing gear for the day; you’ll board the jet boat with all equipment. Expect a morning launch—plan clothing for canyon conditions and changing weather.
You are responsible for purchasing a Colorado fishing license before the trip; a license is required for anyone 16 or older. Pleasure Park does not sell licenses; purchase online at www.wildlife.state.co.us or by phone at 1‑800‑244‑5613.
All anglers must sign a liability waiver prior to participating. Anglers must have a reservation for the jet boat guided trip; availability is limited and Pleasure Park is the only permit holder.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip duration is 8 hours.
What ages are permitted?
Participants ages 5 and up are accepted; anyone 16 or older must possess a Colorado fishing license.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes. Anglers must have a reservation for the jet boat guided trip; the service has limited availability and Pleasure Park is the only permit holder.
When does the jet boat run?
The jet boat is a morning service running from about 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m.; specific timing fluctuates with season and daylight hours.
Do I need to buy a Colorado fishing license through the operator?
No. You are responsible for purchasing your own license before the trip; Pleasure Park does not sell licenses. Licenses can be purchased online at www.wildlife.state.co.us or by phone at 1‑800‑244‑5613.
Is the trip suitable for those who aren’t able to hike?
Yes. The jet‑boat access and the dory’s comfort make the trip well‑suited for people who are less mobile and cannot do a lot of hiking.