Are the fish calling you?
Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or you’re looking to take your first trip, fly fishing is one of the most addicting hobbies you’ll ever try. Perhaps the biggest question you’ll encounter is where to go on your next fly fishing trip.
There are beautiful and bountiful spots across the country, but where can you find the best fly fishing in the US?
Here are 6 locations that will make your fly fishing heart happy.
What is Fly Fishing?
The name fly fishing comes from the lures, which imitate bait such as insects or other meat that fish like to eat. The “flies” are made out of materials like yarn, feathers, fur, and thread, along with a single hook.
Flies come in a variety of types and sizes, including:
- Midges (small, sinking flies)
- Dry (small to medium floating flies)
- Streamers (largest type made to look like insects, mice, and other fish)
Choosing flies will depend on the fly rods, line/leader, and other equipment you’re using.
Best Fly Fishing in the US
Now, it’s time to answer the basic question. Let’s break down our 6 best fly fishing locations. We’ll travel east to west.
1. Long Island Sound, NY
Yes, New York really makes our list as a “best place to fly fish”. Between Montauk and Long Island’s southern beaches, you’ll find an abundance of bluefish, false albacore, and striped bass.
2. Florida Keys
If you want to know where to go for saltwater fish, the answer is the Florida Keys. You’ll find a variety of species, including bass, bonefish, tarpon, redfish, and snook.
There are many “keys” to suit your mood, from tiny Duck Key to the more bustling “metropolis” of Key West. Along the way, take a ride across the famous 7 Mile Bridge and marvel at the gorgeous blue water as far as the eye can see.
3. White River, AK
The White River runs for more than 700 breathtaking miles from Arkansas to the southern tip of Missouri. Not only is the river a beautiful sight to behold, but you will also be thrilled with your yield of trout at Bull Shoals Lake.
4. Colorado River, CO and AZ
If you’re after trout, the Colorado River is hands down one of the best fly fishing locations. Your yield will be fantastic almost anywhere along the river in Colorado. You’ll find another great location below Glen Canyon Dam in northern Arizona.
As for the views, you can never go wrong with any vista in this part of the country.
5. Bighorn River, MT
If you’re looking to catch large trout, this river in Montana is revered as one of the best in the country. The views are pretty spectacular, too. If you don’t like crowds, think about going in the fall as summers tend to be packed.
6. Henry’s Fork, ID
Located in eastern Idaho, Henry’s Fork is a tributary of the Snake River. It offers perhaps the best dry stream fly fishing in the world. In fact, as fly fishing places go, Henry’s Fork is legendary.
Plus, you probably won’t mind the lush grassland set against gorgeous mountain backdrops.
Plan Your Next Fly Fishing Trip
Now that you have some suggestions for the best fly fishing in the US, it’s time to start planning. Pack up your flies and rods, and head out into the wilderness.
