Best Places To Fly Fish In The US

One of the many hobbies growing in popularity in the United States is fly fishing. This sport combines the many joys of nature with the thrill of sport. Many people are now discovering why this pastime is enjoyed by so many.

Many sporting goods stores will be happy to give you a quick rundown of the types of flies to use; as well as which types of gear. You can also pick up fresh flies at local stores.

No matter which part of the country you live in, with a little online research you can find a place nearby to enjoy your new sport.

Here is a list of ten places where fly fishing is plentiful and a memorable experience:

1. MADISON RIVER, MONTANA

This river is thought by many to be one of the best for this hobby; in the world. It has been nicknamed the “50 Mile Riffle,” by experts. It features large fish in plentiful numbers. Pay special attention to the large catches available at Quake Lake and Hebgen Lake. One of its secluded treasures is the Bear Trap Canyon; it’s hard to navigate there, but worth the extra effort.

Flies that work well include the rubber legged stone – which always lures its share of trout; the beaded prince nymph and salmon flies.

2. YELLOWSTONE RIVER, MONTANA

If you’re a beginning angler, you may not want to try this site first. If you do decide to brave the Yellowstone’s strong current, you would do well to hire a guide.

Entering this area between Gardiner and Livingston will guarantee you a large enough catch to make the effort worth your while.

Salmonfly, BWO and Caddis hatches are always successful lures in this area.

3. BIGHORN RIVER, WYOMING

Although this river has some portions in Montana, you’ll catch more fish in its Wyoming waters. It’s a great location to reel in cutthroat, brown and rainbow trout in its stretch near Thermopolis.

You’ll find this site easily by going through the town. To get to the fish, you can wade or float- but floating is a better way to catch your fill. Be sure to take a 6-weight, and fully explore this area’s pockets and pools.

Several types of flies will be needed due to the variety of species available. Midge Flies, BWOs and PMDs are a sure bet.

4. NORTH PLATTE RIVER, WYOMING

Most who think of this river automatically picture the Colorado portion – but it’s Wyoming where you can find a better opportunity for your new hobby.

One of the best known rainbow trout fisheries, Grey Reef, is found here. Be careful with this sector, because despite its density of fish, many parts are privately owned. You’ll need to use Clouser Minnows and Wooly Buggers – plus plenty of dry lures. Be certain to bring a 6-weight, and place a disc drag on your rod. You’ll need these for the strong swimmers in this place.

5. YAMPA RIVER, COLORADO

This is the best place for western fly fishing. Amid beautiful forests, clear water and legendary-sized trophy fish, you’ll spend your days reeling them in.

You can easily access the waters here from Yampa, or from Steamboat Springs. The season here doesn’t end, because its waves always flow. You’ll find enough rainbow and brown trout, as long as you pack your trico. midge and Golden Flies.

If you would enjoy camping while trying out your new hobby, the State of Colorado has sensational campgrounds available – some are near shores where you can find plenty of fish.

6. SNAKE RIVER, IDAHO

The Snake is one of the best fisheries in the United States. The number of Cutthroat trout at Snake is known to anglers all over the world. There are also rainbows and brown trout here.

Try any of the entrances from Henry’s Fork to Palisades Reservoir. The best way to navigate this area is by floating. This region is rarely overcrowded, and your catch will be full of your favorites.

7. KENAI RIVER, ALASKA

If you have the requisite heavy duty gear, don’t miss a change to angle in Alaska. It’s an experience no sportsman wants to miss. And your rewards will fry up nicely.

It’s not an easy destination to conquer, especially for a novice. Hire a guide for your best experience. These are enough brown and rainbow trout here, but the place is better known for salmon and steelheads. You’ll see these fish here every year.

While you’re on the Kenai, don’t miss the National Wildlife Refuge. Though you’ll fill your days pulling in your catches, the scenery and wildlife in this refuge are a must-see.

These fish are strong – so bring along your 8 and 10-weight fly rods.

8. GREEN RIVER, UTAH

Here you’ll find some great angling in the three sectors below the Flaming Gorge Dam. There are rumored to be 8000 fish per mile; waiting at Green River.

You can sit on the shore here, to land brown, rainbow, cutthroat or Cut-Bow trout. But many prefer to wade inward and garner even more trophies.

9. BATTENKILL RIVER, VERMONT

You’ll find this fisherman’s paradise in the midst of the Green Mountains. You’ll need to know how to cast strategically- so take this destination as the challenge it is. The fish are ready to take your bait – as long as you can skillfully direct them to it.

Start at Arlington and work your way west- you’ll revel in miles of breathtaking scenery as you fill your boat with trout. Pack your 3 or 4 weight, along with a 12-foot leader. Use classic dry flies and just keep on catching them all.

10. RAPID RIVER, MAINE

The Brook trout here are so beautiful; you’ll almost be hesitant to reel them in. This is another tough body of water to navigate, but it’s well worth your time and effort.

The ideal vantage point is at Lake State Park. Be sure to utilize small French as well as Pleasant Tail nymphs for the best result.

The rustic setting requires a hike to the action, so you may want to take advantage of cabin rentals.

As you make your way around the country with your new pastime, enjoy seeing lots of our country as you explore these options.