Fly Fishing
Fly fishing in the United States offers a deeply rewarding angling experience on some of the most beautiful waters in the world. From the legendary spring creeks of Montana and the freestone rivers of Colorado to Appalachian trout streams and Pacific Northwest steelhead runs, America has a fly fishing destination for every skill level. The sport has experienced massive growth in recent years, and whether you are a seasoned angler casting dry flies to rising trout or a beginner learning to roll cast, the US offers unmatched opportunities.
Interactive Map
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Top Venues
Top Fishing Spots
The best-rated fishing venues across the US.
- 1
Madison River, MT
One of America's most iconic fly fishing rivers with 50 miles of world-class trout water
- 2
Henry's Fork, ID
Legendary spring creek section with technical dry fly fishing for selective rainbow trout
- 3
South Platte River, CO
Tailwater trout fishing paradise with massive hatches and 18-22 inch fish below Cheesman Canyon
- 4
Deschutes River, OR
Premier steelhead and trout fly fishing in a dramatic high-desert canyon setting
- 5
Delaware River, NY/PA
East Coast's best wild trout fishery with outstanding dry fly fishing for brown trout
- 6
San Juan River, NM
Year-round tailwater with staggering trout densities and consistent midge and baetis hatches
- 7
Yellowstone River, MT
America's longest undammed river with incredible cutthroat and brown trout fishing
- 8
Bighorn River, MT
Blue-ribbon tailwater producing 5,000+ trout per mile with prolific insect hatches
- 9
Green River, UT
Below Flaming Gorge Dam with crystal-clear water and trophy brown and rainbow trout
- 10
Pere Marquette River, MI
Midwest's premier fly fishing river for steelhead, salmon, and resident trout
Species Guide
Species You Can Catch
Learn about the fish you’ll find at these venues.
Getting Started
Fishing License & Tips
License Information
A state fishing license is required for fly fishing in every state. Some premier fly fishing states like Montana ($31 resident, $111 non-resident), Colorado ($35 resident, $98 non-resident), and Idaho ($26 resident, $98 non-resident) attract anglers from across the country. Additional stamps may be required for steelhead and salmon in Pacific Northwest states. Many catch-and-release waters have special regulations requiring barbless hooks and artificial flies only. Always check state regulations for the specific water you plan to fish.
Read the full fishing license guideQuick Tips
- Start with a versatile 5-weight fly rod outfit for trout fishing. It handles dry flies, nymphs, and small streamers effectively on most trout waters from small creeks to medium rivers.
- Learn to read water before worrying about casting distance. Trout hold in current seams, behind rocks, in foam lines, and along undercut banks. Presenting your fly in the right spot matters more than casting 60 feet.
- Match the hatch by observing what insects are on the water and trying to imitate them. A basic fly box with Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tail Nymphs, and Woolly Buggers will cover most situations.
- Use the GilledIt app to log your fly fishing catches with details on fly pattern, hatch activity, and water conditions. Over time this builds an invaluable database of what works on your home waters.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fly Fishing
Montana, Colorado, Idaho, and Oregon consistently rank as the top fly fishing states. The Madison River, Henry's Fork, South Platte, and Deschutes are among the most famous rivers. However, excellent fly fishing exists in every region, from the Appalachian streams of the East to the spring creeks of Pennsylvania and the steelhead rivers of the Pacific Northwest. The GilledIt app can help you find fly fishing waters near your location.
A complete beginner setup includes a 9-foot 5-weight fly rod, matching reel with floating line, a tapered leader, and a basic fly selection. Quality entry-level rod-and-reel combos start around $150-250 from brands like Orvis, Redington, and Echo. Add waders ($100-200), boots ($60-120), and a small fly box. Many fly shops offer casting lessons and beginner packages. Total starter investment is typically $300-500.
The basics of fly casting can be learned in a few hours with proper instruction. Many fly shops, guides, and organizations like Trout Unlimited offer beginner clinics and lessons. The learning curve for reading water, matching hatches, and refining presentations is longer, but that is part of the lifelong appeal of fly fishing. Starting with a guided trip is an excellent way to accelerate your learning.
A basic fly box should include: dry flies (Elk Hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, Stimulator in sizes 12-16), nymphs (Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Copper John, Zebra Midge in sizes 14-20), and streamers (Woolly Bugger in black, olive, and white in sizes 6-10). These patterns cover the majority of fishing situations across the country. Add specific patterns based on your local waters as you learn.
Absolutely! Saltwater fly fishing is growing rapidly in the US. Florida's flats offer sight-fishing for bonefish, permit, and tarpon. Striped bass fly fishing is popular along the Northeast coast. Louisiana's marshes provide incredible redfish on the fly. You will need heavier gear (7-12 weight rods depending on species) and saltwater-specific flies. It is some of the most exciting fly fishing available.
Catch and release is the practice of safely returning fish to the water after catching them. It is especially important in fly fishing because many premier trout waters depend on wild, naturally reproducing fish populations. Use barbless hooks, keep the fish in the water, handle with wet hands, and minimize fight time to ensure healthy releases. Many top fly fishing waters are designated catch-and-release only to protect the fishery.
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