Fly-fishing is one of America’s most treasured outdoor pastimes. An entire culture surrounds this interesting and captivating adventure. Ever heard of “A River Runs Through It”? Yeah, entire books and novels involve the sport of fly-fishing.
Of course, while the West is considered the premier destination for those who seek fly-fishing fun, it isn’t an option for everyone. Therefore, those who don’t plan to travel to a fly-fishing destination in the West might consider some of the incredible fly-fishing destinations in the East.
Fortunately, good trout fishing opportunities exist in parts of the Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast. While the following are great examples of fly-fishing fun, there are others, too.
1. AuSable River (Michigan)
Michigan’s AuSable River holds big brown trout. It’s a premier destination for larger fish, especially compared to other fly-fishing streams and rivers in the region. It’s ideal for dry fly-fishing.
More info on AuSable River fly-fishing.
2. Gauley River (West Virginia)
Located in West Virginia, the Gauley River is in the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Cabin rentals are nearby, too. That makes for easier trip planning. It’s stocked with brown and rainbow trout. It’s also a rugged but fun destination.
More info on Gauley River fly-fishing.
3. Guadalupe River (Texas)
Those in the Deep South might look to Texas for rainbow and brown trout fishing. The Guadalupe River provides a good opportunity to enjoy this lifestyle, where there aren’t many other places in the region.
More info on Guadalupe River fly-fishing.
4. Jackson River (Virginia)
Virginia’s Jackson River offers brown trout, wading access, and float fishing. All three can be trip moments to remember. The views are exceptional, too.
More info on Jackson River fly-fishing.
5. New River (Virginia)
According to some sources, Virginia’s New River is the oldest river in North America. It also sports incredible fishing for golden, rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Located in some beautiful country landscapes, the area offers incredible scenery.
More info on New River fly-fishing.
6. Norfork River (Arkansas)
An Arkansas attraction, the Norfork River provides great access and wadable areas, and flows between the Norfork Dam into the White River. Smaller streams offshoot from there, and provide access to brook, brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout.
More info on Norfolk River fly-fishing.
7. Tanassee Creek (North Carolina)
Located within the Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina’s Tanassee Creek can produce solid fly-fishing fun for wild brown trout. The area also offers great hiking adventures that tack on as great trip additions.
More info on Tanassee Creek fly-fishing.
8. Watauga River (Tennessee)
Drift boats are often used on Tennessee’s Watauga River. Big, wild trout are common, and you might catch exceptional brown and rainbow trout that are upward of 25 inches.
More info on Watauga River fly-fishing.
9. White River (Arkansas)
Arkansas’ White River produces trophy brown trout. It’s common to bring in trout that are up to 10-15 pounds. Here, some anglers focus their efforts on the water below Bull Shoals dam. Anglers might also find a few cutthroat trout.
More info on White River fly-fishing.
10. Yellow Breeches Creek (Pennsylvania)
It may surprise some anglers to see Pennsylvania’s Yellow Breeches Creek on this list. But it has good fish populations and provides a solid pick for those who plan to try fly fishing in the Northeast.
More info on Yellow Breeches Creek fly-fishing.
Time to Go Fly-Fishing
If these destinations aren’t for you, there are countless others to consider. In most states, wildlife agencies and DNRs stock trout streams for avid fly-fishermen. These are not native trout, but still provide an experience that fishing enthusiasts enjoy and love.
