New Hampshire is a hidden gem for avid fly fishermen, offering a variety of picturesque spots that are sure to satisfy any angler’s appetite for adventure. From crystal-clear mountain streams to sprawling lakes nestled in peaceful valleys, the possibilities for hooking that perfect catch are endless. So pack your gear, grab your waders, and prepare to discover the top fly fishing spots that New Hampshire has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to cast a line for the first time, these waters are waiting to embrace you and provide an unforgettable fishing experience. If you’re a fly fishing enthusiast and looking for the top spots in New Hampshire to cast your line, you’re in luck! The state is home to a variety of stunning rivers, lakes, and streams that offer exceptional fly fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, New Hampshire has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top fly fishing spots in the beautiful Granite State.
White Mountains
The White Mountains region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and it also boasts some fantastic fly fishing opportunities. Two rivers stand out in this area: the Ammonoosuc River and the Pemigewasset River.
The Ammonoosuc River is a gem in the White Mountains, offering stunning views and excellent fishing. It is known for its abundant trout population, including both rainbow and brook trout. This river is easily accessible, making it a popular choice among anglers of all skill levels.
The Pemigewasset River is another fantastic spot in the White Mountains. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, it provides a tranquil setting for fly fishing. This river is home to a diverse range of fish, including trout, bass, and even Atlantic salmon.
Connecticut River
Moving westward, we arrive at the Connecticut River, one of New England’s longest and most iconic rivers. The Upper Connecticut River, which stretches through New Hampshire, offers fly fishing enthusiasts a unique experience.
This section of the river is known for its impressive trout population, particularly brown trout and rainbow trout. The Upper Connecticut River is host to various hatches throughout the year, making it an excellent place for dry fly fishing. Its remote location and scenic beauty only add to the allure of this exceptional fishing destination.
The surrounding rivers and streams near the Connecticut River also deserve recognition. These smaller bodies of water, such as the Mascoma River and Sugar River, provide ample opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking more secluded spots.
Lakes Region
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is a paradise for anglers, with its numerous pristine lakes offering incredible fishing experiences. Among the many lakes in this area, Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Sunapee, and Squam Lake are particularly noteworthy for fly fishing.
Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in the state, offers a diverse range of fish species, including salmon, trout, and bass. Its expansive shoreline provides plenty of fishing spots accessible by both boat and shore.
Lake Sunapee, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings, is a must-visit for fly fishermen. This lake is known for its land-locked salmon and rainbow trout, which can be caught near underwater springs and rocky areas.
Squam Lake, made famous by the movie “On Golden Pond,” is another popular destination for fly fishing. Its pristine waters are home to various fish species, including land-locked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and pickerel. With its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking scenery, Squam Lake is a true gem in the Lakes Region.
Merrimack Valley
The Merrimack Valley region in New Hampshire offers a blend of urban areas and natural beauty, and it’s also a fantastic spot for fly fishing. The Merrimack River, Souhegan River, and Contoocook River are the main attractions in this area.
The Merrimack River, the lifeblood of the valley, is home to a diverse range of fish species, including smallmouth bass, brown trout, and shad. With its accessible locations and calm waters, it provides an excellent opportunity for anglers of all levels.
The Souhegan River, a tributary of the Merrimack River, is equally enticing for fly fishing enthusiasts. This river stretches through both New Hampshire and Massachusetts and is known for its excellent trout fishing. The charming towns and serene settings along the river make fly fishing here a memorable experience.
The Contoocook River, another tributary of the Merrimack River, offers a unique angling experience. With its slower-moving waters, it is an ideal spot for beginners and families. This river is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and panfish.
Monadnock Region
The Monadnock Region in southwestern New Hampshire is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. When it comes to fly fishing, the Ashuelot River, Nubanusit Brook, and Miller Brook are among the top choices in this area.
The Ashuelot River, flowing through Keene, is a popular spot for fly fishermen seeking trout. The river’s diverse hatches appeal to anglers throughout the year, with both dry and wet fly fishing opportunities.
Nubanusit Brook, located in Hancock, is a small but productive waterway for trout fishing. Its secluded nature and serene surroundings make it a peaceful retreat for anglers seeking solitude.
Miller Brook, near Jaffrey, is another hidden gem in the Monadnock Region. This small brook offers excellent fishing for wild brook trout. Its narrow stretches and challenging casting locations make it a favorite among adventurous fly fishermen.
Seacoast Region
The Seacoast Region of New Hampshire, with its miles of coastline and charming coastal towns, also has some excellent fly fishing spots to explore. The Lamprey River, Exeter River, and Winnicut River are the highlights in this area.
The Lamprey River, flowing through diverse habitats from woodlands to salt marshes, is a unique place for fly fishing. It is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and migratory fish like river herring and American shad.
The Exeter River, winding its way through Exeter, offers a tranquil setting for fly fishing enthusiasts. It is known for its healthy population of trout, making it a popular spot for anglers seeking a peaceful day on the water.
The Winnicut River, located near Greenland, is another hidden gem in the Seacoast Region. This river provides excellent fishing opportunities for both trout and bass, and its scenic beauty adds to the overall experience.
Piscataqua Region
The Piscataqua Region, named after the Piscataqua River that divides New Hampshire and Maine, offers diverse fishing opportunities. The Salmon Falls River, Great Bay, and Oyster River are the standout spots in this region.
The Salmon Falls River, straddling the New Hampshire-Maine border, is a prime location for fly fishing. Its impressive salmon and trout populations make it a popular destination for anglers in pursuit of these coveted fish.
Great Bay, a large tidal estuary, is home to various fish species, including striped bass, bluefish, and flounder. Fly fishing enthusiasts can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater opportunities in this unique ecosystem.
The Oyster River, flowing through Durham and Newmarket, is a beautiful river that offers incredible fly fishing experiences. It is known for its healthy population of trout, particularly brook trout, in its upper reaches.
Moose Mountains Reservation
If you’re seeking a remote and untouched fishing destination, the Moose Mountains Reservation in southeastern New Hampshire is the place to be. This vast forested area is home to several hidden gems for fly fishing enthusiasts, including the Branch River, Barnes Brook, and Ramshorn Brook.
The Branch River, flowing through the heart of the reserve, offers solitude and natural beauty. It is known for its native brook trout population, providing a truly wild fishing experience.
Barnes Brook, a tributary to the Branch River, is smaller in size but boasts a healthy population of brook trout. Its serene surroundings and pristine waters make it a peaceful spot for fly fishing.
Ramshorn Brook, another charming waterway within the reservation, offers an abundance of small brook trout. This brook provides a unique angling experience, with its tight quarters and challenging casting opportunities.
Southern New Hampshire
Southern New Hampshire may not have the mountainous terrain of the northern regions, but it still offers plenty of fishing opportunities. The Merrimack River, Pawtuckaway Pond, and Nashua River are the top spots in this area.
The Merrimack River, previously mentioned in the Merrimack Valley section, also extends into southern New Hampshire. Its accessibility and diverse fish population make it a go-to destination for fly fishing enthusiasts in this region.
Pawtuckaway Pond, located in Nottingham, is a hidden gem for fly fishing. This peaceful pond is home to various fish species, including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and yellow perch. anglers can enjoy both boat and shore fishing experiences here.
The Nashua River, meandering through Massachusetts and New Hampshire, offers a chance to explore fly fishing opportunities near the state’s southern border. This river is known for its smallmouth bass fishing and provides a change of pace from the trout-dominated waters in other regions of the state.
Northern New Hampshire
Lastly, we have the stunning Northern region of New Hampshire, characterized by its rugged landscapes and pristine waterways. The Androscoggin River, Kokadjo Roach River, and Errol Dam are the highlights of this region.
The Androscoggin River, stretching over 170 miles, is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts. This river is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow and brown trout, smallmouth bass, and land-locked salmon. From its headwaters in New Hampshire to its confluence with the Kennebec River in Maine, the Androscoggin River offers endless fishing opportunities.
The Kokadjo Roach River, located near the northern border of Maine, is a hidden gem for remote fly fishing adventures. This river is known for its stunning natural beauty and its abundance of wild brook trout.
The Errol Dam, situated on the Androscoggin River, offers a unique angling experience for fly fishermen. The waters below the dam attract various fish species, including trout, salmon, and bass. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the dam itself or explore the surrounding stretch of the river.
With its diverse range of rivers, lakes, and streams, New Hampshire truly is a fly fishing paradise. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the White Mountains, the serene lakes of the Lakes Region, or the coastal charm of the Seacoast, there’s a spot in the Granite State that will capture your angling spirit. So grab your fly rod, pack your tackle box, and get ready for an unforgettable fly fishing adventure in the beautiful state of New Hampshire.