If you love fly fishing, there is no doubt you want to visit some of the top destinations in the U.S. With so many options, how do you choose where to go? We have narrowed your search down to the 5 Best States for Fly Fishing.
Best States for Fly Fishing
| State | Top Fishing Spots | Main Fish Species | Best Time to Fish | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Kenai River, Bristol Bay, Kvichak River, Kodiak Island | Salmon, rainbow trout, steelhead | June – October | Largest salmon runs in the world, remote and pristine waters |
| Wyoming | Yellowstone River, Snake River, North Platte River, Wind River Range | Cutthroat trout, brown trout, rainbow trout | June – September | Blue-ribbon trout streams, backcountry fishing |
| Montana | Madison River, Gallatin River, Big Hole River, Bighorn River | Rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout | April – October | Legendary fly fishing culture, diverse fisheries |
| Washington | Yakima River, Skagit River, Hoh River, Rocky Ford Creek | Steelhead, salmon, rainbow trout | Year-round (varies by species) | Excellent steelhead rivers, coastal and inland fisheries |
| Arizona | Lees Ferry, Oak Creek, White Mountains | Apache trout, Gila trout, rainbow trout | Year-round (varies by location) | Rare native trout, high-altitude desert fishing |
What Makes a State Great for Fly Fishing?
Not all fishing destinations are created equal. The best fly fishing states share common traits that make them stand out. Traits such as number of rivers, climate, and water health. These items are just part of the puzzle, you also want to be comfortable on your fly fishing vacation. The best fly fishing states have the best accomodations. Whether you are a DIY fisherman or hire a guide. Here’s what to look for when choosing where to fish:
- Variety of Fish Species – The best states offer multiple game fish, from trout to salmon to steelhead.
- Healthy Water Systems – Clear, well-oxygenated rivers and lakes are essential for thriving fish populations.
- Fishing Access – Public access points, national parks, and state-maintained fisheries improve angler opportunities.
- Strong Conservation Efforts – Sustainable fishing practices help maintain fish populations for future generations.
- Diverse Fishing Environments – Rivers, lakes, backcountry streams, and coastal fisheries provide a range of experiences.
1. Alaska – The Ultimate Fly Fishing Paradise
Alaska is a dream destination for fly anglers. With its remote rivers, massive fish populations, and stunning landscapes, it’s the best state for those seeking an unforgettable fishing experience. There are so many species to catch fly fishing in Alaska.
Best Fly Fishing Spots in Alaska
| Location | Target Fish | Best Time to Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Kenai River | Rainbow trout, king salmon | June – September |
| Bristol Bay | Sockeye salmon, char | July – August |
| Kvichak River | Trophy rainbow trout | June – October |
| Kodiak Island | Steelhead, coho salmon | September – November |
Why Alaska is a Top Fly Fishing Destination
Alaska has world-class salmon runs. The ocean run fish fight hard and will put you and your gear to the test. Not only are there salmon, but there are resident fish to catch along with grayling! What else makes this state a great destination is there is always a place to go that is secluded. You can boat to the fish or hike.
Alaska Fly Fishing Tips & Regulations
- Use big streamers: to mimic baitfish when targeting trophy trout.
- Fly out to remote locations: for a true Alaskan experience—many areas are accessible only by floatplane.
- Hire a boat charter: You can hire a boat to fish off of or take you to remote access areas.
- Know the regulations: Certain rivers have strict catch-and-release rules.
2. Wyoming – A Western Fly Fishing Gem
Wyoming offers some of the most beautiful and productive trout streams in the U.S. With its blue-ribbon waters and wide-open landscapes, this state is a paradise for fly anglers.
Best Spots in Wyoming
- Yellowstone River – Famous for its cutthroat trout populations.
- Snake River – Known for aggressive native cutthroat trout.
- North Platte River – A top location for large brown and rainbow trout.
- Wind River Range – A backcountry destination with high-elevation lakes.
Why Wyoming is a Top Fly Fishing Destination
- Famous Cutthroat Trout Streams – Home to native Yellowstone and Snake River cutthroat.
- Less Crowded Than Other Western States – Less fishing pressure compared to Montana and Colorado.
- High-Altitude Streams and Lakes – Offers excellent fishing in remote locations.
Wyoming Fly Fishing Tips & Regulations
- Best season: Summer (June–September) when trout are most active.
- Use terrestrial flies like hoppers and beetles in late summer.
- Check Yellowstone National Park rules—some areas have barbless hook requirements.
3. Montana – The Heart of Fly Fishing in the U.S.
Montana is the gold standard for fly fishing. The combination of clear mountain rivers, large trout populations, and a deep fly fishing culture makes it one of the best places to cast a line.
Best Spots in Montana
| River | Main Fish Species | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Madison River | Rainbow & brown trout | June – October |
| Gallatin River | Cutthroat & rainbow | May – September |
| Big Hole River | Wild brown trout | April – July |
| Bighorn River | Trophy trout | Year-round |
Why Montana is a Top Destination
- Legendary Waters – Madison, Yellowstone, and Gallatin Rivers offer world-class fishing.
- Diverse Fisheries – Cold mountain streams and big tailwaters provide different experiences.
- Strong Conservation Efforts – Montana protects its rivers with barbless hook regulations and catch-and-release fishing.
Montana Fly Fishing Tips & Regulations
- Use dry flies during summer hatches.
- Wade carefully to avoid spooking fish in clear water.
- Purchase a Montana fishing license online before heading out.
4. Washington State – The Pacific Northwest
Washington is unique in that it offers both trout and salmon fly fishing. From the Yakima River to wild coastal steelhead runs, there’s something for every angler. Washington is a top destination for wild steelhead. These ocean run fish pack a punch in the river. They are the fastest migratory fish.
Best Fly Fishing Spots in Washington
- Yakima River – Best trout fishing in the state.
- Skagit River – Premier winter steelhead destination.
- Hoh River – A remote spot for wild steelhead.
- Rocky Ford Creek – One of the best spring creeks in the U.S.
Washington Fly Fishing Tips & Regulations
- Use egg patterns in salmon-spawning areas.
- Watch out for seasonal closures on steelhead rivers.
- Use spey rods for casting in wide rivers.
5. Arizona – A Prime Destination
Arizona might not be the first place you think of for fly fishing, but high-altitude mountain lakes and rivers make it one of the best states for fly fishing in the Southwest. This state has some of the best inland river trout fishing in the world. With canyon streams that stay cold all year long it is a trout factory. You can fish for stocked and wild trout in Arizona. Guides are plentiful too if you do not have your own boat or gear.
Best Fly Fishing Spots in Arizona
| Waterbody | Fish Species | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Lees Ferry | Rainbow trout | Year-round |
| Oak Creek | Brown trout | March – May |
| White Mountains | Apache & Gila trout | Summer |
Why Arizona is a Top Destination
- Rare Native Trout – Home to Apache and Gila trout, found nowhere else.
- Diverse Fishing Environments – Cold tailwaters and high-elevation streams.
- Year-Round Fishing – Lees Ferry offers trout fishing even in winter.
Arizona Fly Fishing Tips & Regulations
- Use small nymphs in clear desert waters.
- Check seasonal closures for native trout conservation areas.
- Use barbless hooks for catch-and-release fishing.
With so many destinations, these 5 best states for fly fishing will get your ideas going. All of these are great destinations. However, choose one that suits your needs. Tip: If you haven’t been fly fishing before, check out these fly fishing YouTube channels!