Where are the best places to Fly Fish in Connecticut?

Connecticut may be a small state, but it has a rich tradition of fly fishing that dates back to the early 1800s. Today, Connecticut remains a popular destination for fly fishermen from around the world, thanks to its many rivers, streams, and lakes that are home to a variety of fish species. Here are some of the top fly fishing destinations in Connecticut:

The Farmington River

The Farmington River is one of the most popular fly fishing destinations in Connecticut. This river flows for 46 miles through the western part of the state and is home to wild brown and rainbow trout, as well as smallmouth and largemouth bass. The Farmington River is known for its clear water and challenging fishing conditions, making it a favorite spot among experienced anglers. The river can be accessed from several public access points, including several campgrounds and day use areas.

The Housatonic River

The Housatonic River is another top destination for fly fishing in Connecticut. This river flows for 149 miles through western Massachusetts and Connecticut and is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and northern pike. The Housatonic River is known for its scenic beauty, including forested hills and rolling countryside. The river can be accessed from several public access points, including several campgrounds, fishing access sites, and boat launches.

The Connecticut River

The Connecticut River is a top destination for fly fishing in Connecticut’s lakes. This river flows for 407 miles through four states, including Connecticut, and is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. The Connecticut River is known for its scenic beauty, including forested shorelines and numerous coves and inlets. The river can be accessed from several public access points, including several boat launches and fishing access sites.

The Salmon River

The Salmon River is a top destination for fly fishing in Connecticut’s eastern region. This river flows for 6.8 miles through East Haddam and is home to wild brook and brown trout, as well as Atlantic salmon. The Salmon River is known for its scenic beauty, including forested hills and rolling countryside. The river can be accessed from several public access points, including several campgrounds, fishing access sites, and boat launches.

The Thames River

The Thames River is another top destination for fly fishing in Connecticut’s eastern region. This river flows for 15 miles through southeastern Connecticut and is home to a variety of fish species, including striped bass, bluefish, and blackfish. The Thames River is known for its scenic beauty, including forested hills and rolling countryside. The river can be accessed from several public access points, including several boat launches and fishing access sites.