Best Fly Fishing States in USA
The best state for fly fishing in the USA is often considered to be Montana. It’s renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse fisheries, and high fish populations, especially trout. Here’s a breakdown of what makes Montana exceptional, along with other top states that deserve a mention.
1. Montana
- Why it’s the best: Known for pristine rivers like the Madison, Yellowstone, and Missouri, Montana offers world-class trout fishing, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. The state has a strong culture of conservation and strict fishing regulations, ensuring a sustainable experience.
- Best seasons: Spring and summer are prime seasons, especially from June to September.
- Unique features: Many of Montana’s rivers are accessible for wading and float fishing, providing anglers with versatile fishing experiences. The Rocky Mountain scenery is also breathtaking.
2. Idaho
- Why it’s great: Idaho offers the beautiful Henry’s Fork, Salmon, and Snake rivers, known for prolific hatches and large trout.
- Unique features: Challenging waters and trophy fish make it a destination for experienced anglers, plus stunning wilderness areas and great diversity in species.
3. Wyoming
- Why it’s great: Home to famous waters like the North Platte River, Snake River, and Green River, Wyoming offers prime trout fishing.
- Unique features: With access to Yellowstone National Park and rugged mountains, Wyoming is perfect for anglers who enjoy remote fishing adventures.
4. Colorado
- Why it’s great: Known for the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers, the state is a major fly-fishing destination with year-round opportunities.
- Unique features: Colorado offers easy access to fishing spots, beautiful scenery, and a mix of rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
5. Alaska
- Why it’s great: Known for salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden, Alaska has some of the largest fish populations and is perfect for wilderness fly fishing.
- Unique features: Alaska’s remote wilderness areas and intense fish runs offer a unique, bucket-list fly-fishing experience.
6. California
- Why it’s great: Home to rivers like the Kern, Sacramento, and Truckee, California is known for its variety, from coastal steelhead rivers to mountain trout streams.
- Unique features: The diversity of species and environments, including high mountain lakes and coastal rivers, is unmatched.
7. Maine
- Why it’s great: For those on the East Coast, Maine offers excellent fishing for native brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass.
- Unique features: Maine’s remote lakes and streams provide a wilderness feel with excellent fishing, especially for brook trout and smallmouth bass.
Each state offers unique environments and target species, but Montana stands out for its natural beauty, vast fisheries, and angling culture, making it a top destination for serious fly fishers.
Everybody’s got one – an opinion that is! Even ChatGPT can turn out this list and leave out Florida. If you think about it, this shows the bias in writing that rests on the internet – IN MY OPINION. But maybe this seals the deal on YOUR bucket list! How many of these States have I never fly fished, or never even been to? Simple. I have been to and fly fished Colorado. I have lived in California pre-fly. That is it. Amazing, right!? At least you won’t find me talking anywhere about things which I know not.
Category: Adventure, Destination Fly Fishing
