Nestled in southeastern New York, the Catskill Mountains have long been regarded as the cradle of American fly fishing. With their pristine rivers, lush forests, and storied angling history, the Catskills continue to attract fly fishers from across the country, offering not only world-class trout fishing but also a deep connection to the sport’s rich traditions.
Photo courtesy of Taylor Grote
A Legacy of Fly Fishing
The Catskills' reputation as a fly-fishing mecca dates to the 19th century, when pioneering anglers like Theodore Gordon adapted British fly-fishing techniques to American waters. Gordon, often called the "father of American dry fly fishing," refined patterns and tactics that became the foundation of modern fly fishing in the United States.
Legendary rivers like the Beaverkill, Willowemoc, Esopus, and the Delaware have played a crucial role in this legacy. These waters have inspired generations of anglers and fly tiers, including names like Art Flick, Harry Darbee, and the Dettes—figures who helped shape the Catskill fly-tying style, known for its elegant and highly effective dry flies.
Photo courtesy of Josh Frenette
The Best Catskill Rivers for Fly Fishing
Whether you're a seasoned fly angler or a newcomer eager to cast your first line, the Catskills offer a variety of exceptional rivers teeming with wild and stocked trout.
Photo courtesy of Greyson Johnson
1. The Beaverkill River
One of the most famous trout streams in the world, the Beaverkill is where American fly fishing took root. Its upper and lower stretches provide different fishing experiences, with classic pools like Cairn’s Pool and Hendrickson Pool being prime spots. The river is known for its hatches of Hendricksons, Sulphurs, and Caddisflies, making it a haven for dry-fly anglers.
2. The Willowemoc Creek
Flowing parallel to the Beaverkill, the Willowemoc offers a more intimate fishing experience with its smaller pools and riffles. It’s an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, with strong hatches and a good mix of wild and stocked trout.
3. The Esopus Creek
Renowned for its strong currents and lively rainbow trout, the Esopus is a great choice for those who enjoy nymphing and streamer fishing. The upper reaches near Big Indian are more technical, while the lower section offers easier access.
The Esopus Creek in Phoenicia, NY
4. The Delaware River System
The East and West Branches of the Delaware, along with the Main Stem, provide some of the best wild trout fishing in the Northeast. The West Branch is famous for its cold, tailwater conditions, making it a prime dry-fly fishery throughout the summer. The East Branch offers a mix of slow, technical water and riffles, while the Main Stem provides excellent opportunities for large, rising trout.
Photo courtesy of Tim Labuta
Hatches and the Best Time to Visit
The Catskills are known for their legendary hatches, making timing your trip crucial for success.
- Spring (April – June): Hendricksons, March Browns, Sulphurs, and Caddisflies dominate the hatch cycle. This is one of the most exciting times to fish, as trout are actively feeding after the winter months.
- Summer (July – September): Tricos and terrestrials (grasshoppers, ants, beetles) become key patterns. The tailwaters of the Delaware stay cold, providing excellent summer fishing.
- Fall (October – November): Cooler temperatures bring active trout and stunning autumn foliage. Blue-Winged Olives and Isonychia hatches make for great late-season dry-fly fishing.
Photo courtesy of Katherine Hanlon
Essential Gear for Catskill Fly Fishing
To make the most of your time in the Catskills, having the right gear is essential. Your guide or outfitting company can help with a complete list but here are a few must-haves:
- Rod & Reel: A 4 to 6-weight fly rod in the 8’6” to 9’ range is ideal for most rivers.
- Flies: Carry Catskill dry-fly classics like the Adams, Hendrickson, and Elk Hair Caddis, along with nymphs and streamers for deeper waters.
- Waders & Boots: The rivers can be rocky, so a good pair of wading boots with felt or rubber soles is highly recommended.
- Polarized Sunglasses: Essential for spotting fish and reducing glare on the water.
- Fly fishing net
Guides and Outfitters
For those new to fly fishing or seeking to enhance their skills in the Catskills, here are some reputable guides and outfitters to consider. Engaging a local guide can significantly enhance your fly fishing experience in the Catskills, providing valuable insights into local waters and techniques.
Esopus Creel
PO Box 1
Phoenicia, NY 12464
esopuscreel.com
845-303-9466
Email: info@esopuscreel.com, todd@esopuscreel.com
Fly fishing guide on the Esopus Creek offering instruction and ecology presentations, as well as lodging.
Catskills on the Fly
Sullivan County, NY
catskillsonthefly.com
Email: joe@catskillsonthefly.com
814-282-7575
Offers traditional walk-and-wade fly fishing guide services suitable for all ages and skill levels, focusing on personalized instruction.
Beaverkill Valley Inn
7 Barnhart Road
Lew Beach, NY 12758
beaverkillvalleyinn.com
845-439-4844
innkeeper@beaverkillvalleyinn.com
Provides guided fly fishing tours on the historic Beaverkill River, with private access to a mile of river and customized experiences for guests.
Catskills Fly Fishing Guide Service
103 Grandview Dr.,
Phoenicia, NY 14464
Catskillsflyfishingguideservice.com
213-705-0020
Email: infocatskillsflyfishing@gmail.com
With over 30 years of experience, they offer instruction and guiding on various Catskill streams, catering to all ability levels.
Hackett Fly Fishing
8560 County Highway 17
East Branch, NY 13756
hackettflyfishing.com
845-224-8650
Email: matthiasehackett@gmail.com
Specializes in both walk-wade and drift boat fishing trips, accommodating beginners to seasoned anglers.
Oleh’s Catskill Guide Service / Fly Fishing
PO Box 111
Lexington, NY 12452
olehoutdoors.com
917-658-6746 (call or text)
email: olehoutdoors@gmail.com
Provides fly fishing instruction and guided trips on streams like the Beaverkill River and Schoharie Creek, tailored to individual skills and interests.
Catskill Mountain Angler
PO Box 240
Chichester, NY 12416
catskillmountainangler.com
845-688-5400
mark@catskillmountainangler.com
Led by licensed guide Mark Loete, offering fly fishing guiding and instruction in the Catskill tradition.
Reel Catskills Guide Service
530 Oliverea Road
Big Indian, NY 12410
coldspringlodge.com
845-254-5711
Email: reelcatskills@gmail.com
Offers a variety of guided fishing packages with Brian Foster including casting lessons and wade trips, starting at the Cold Spring Lodge.
Preserving the Catskill Tradition
The Catskills have long been a symbol of conservation in American fly fishing. The region's rivers have faced challenges from pollution and water diversion, but thanks to organizations like Trout Unlimited and the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum, ongoing efforts ensure these waters remain pristine for future generations.
Practicing catch and release, using barbless hooks, and respecting local regulations will help preserve this historic fishery.
Photo courtesy of Brandon Green
Final Thoughts
Fly fishing in the Catskills is more than just an outdoor activity—it’s an immersion into the heart of American fly-fishing heritage and an escape from the modern world. Whether you’re casting on the legendary Beaverkill or exploring the wild trout waters of the Delaware, the experience is one of beauty, challenge, and tradition. So tie on a classic Catskill dry fly, step into the cool mountain waters, and become part of a legacy that has endured for centuries.
Photo courtesy of Jarrett Mills
Header photo courtesy of Glen Rushton
Posted by Lisa Halter on
Leave A Comment