Fly Fishing in the U.S. is a favorite pastime with enthusiasts everywhere, and every fly fisher has their favorite spot—that one place where you seem to have the best luck and epic results every time you visit. That can make it hard to create the ultimate list of best places to fly fish in the U.S. It doesn’t stop us anglers from trying, though!
Here are some of our favorites and why we like them.
Our Top 5 Fly Fishing Destinations in the U.S.
Choosing the best places to fly fish in the U.S. is like choosing a favorite child. You love them all, but some days, you feel more affection for one than the others (parents, you know what we’re talking about). We put some deep thought into it and came up with our top five favorite fly fishing destinations to help you find your favorite spots.
Snake River in Idaho and Wyoming
The Snake River winds down through Idaho and Wyoming, and the fishing is great in both states. This is the place to try your hand at fine-spotted cutthroat trout. You’ll also encounter brown and rainbow trout and smallmouth bass.
Check out Snake River Canyon, South Fork, and Henry’s Fork.
Madison River in Montana
Without a doubt, Montana has some of the best fly fishing in the U.S. We recommend the Madison River as a great place to spend your time. The areas within Yellowstone National Park are wade fishing only. The river boasts various conditions, fish populations, and scenery. No matter where you go along its length, the fishing is great.
Head for the Lyons Bridge area in Ennis and find yourself in trout heaven. Or, contact us for the perfect guided fishing tour along Madison River. We have options for half-day and overnight trips available.
*Honorary mentions go to our other favorite spots to take guests in Montana: Yellowstone, Firehole, and Gibbon Rivers.
Kenai River in Alaska
Welcome to the land of steelhead, salmon, and trout. Everyone needs to go fly fishing in Alaska at least once in their life. It’s a world-famous adventure that makes for great memories and trophies.
Look for great fly fishing areas in Kenai, Soldotna, Sterling, and Cooper Landing.
South Platte River in Colorado
If you’re near Denver, head for the Spinney Reservoir along the South Platte River. This river is often identified as one of the best places to fly fish in the U.S. It has abundant brown and rainbow trout, with other fish thrown in the mix, and stunning views to contribute to your fly fishing zen moments.
A favorite area is the section between Spinney Reservoir and Eleven Mile Reservoir.
The White River in Arkansas
The White River holds the largest brown trout available in North America, and the fishing is amazing in every season. You’ll find all four trout species in these waters, but the reigning champion for this area is the brown trout. It’s a great area to cast a trophy trout.
Find a spot below Bull Shoals Dam. The tailwater sections are stocked well year-round.
Tips for Fly Fishing in the U.S.
- Know before you go. Be sure to look up what licensing is required for areas you’d like to fish, and watch out for local guidelines and restrictions.
- Do a gear check before every trip. Make sure your waders, rods, and flies are ready to go, and don’t forget your polarized sunglasses.
- If you’re trying to find a less crowded time to visit your favorite spot, try spring or fall; honestly, we fish year-round in Montana. Is there ever a bad time to go fly fishing? Nope.
- Scope out the area you intend to fish. You’re not only looking for spots where the fish might be hiding. You want to watch what they’re snacking on. Match your fly as closely as possible to what the fish eat for the best chance of a great catch.
- If you’re not local, hire a guide. Let the experts point out the best-kept secrets in their area.
- Are you new to fly fishing? This is another good reason to hire a guide. Most reputable companies can easily accommodate beginners who need to borrow gear and receive instruction. It’s the most positive way to experience fly fishing.
Are You Ready to Get Casting?
Book a fly fishing guided tour to Yellowstone National Park for some of the best fly fishing in the U.S.