Fly fishermen typically portray wanderlust type characteristics. This is easily apparent by the fact that they often wander the shores of a river or stream in search of the next hole just around the corner. I can second this notion, and can see this characteristic in my own fly fishing behavior. I will often get tired quickly of a stretch of water and will almost yearn to fish a stretch out of sight around a bend upstream.
Fly fishing is the perfect fit for anglers that can’t sit still in a boat. The gear and accessories that are utilized in this sport cater to the ability to seamlessly move around without having to go back for a new fly or other tool. If you are stricken by this wanderlust characteristic, you might consider taking up fly fishing. There is never a dull moment if there is ample water to search and cast into.
For many fly anglers, exploring new waters is a great way to spend an afternoon fishing. Fishing the same holes and stretches of water can get old. That is where getting away to fly fishing destination options around the country and world can bring a new excitement into this sport. There are many fly fishing destinations around that world that are considered world class, including Alaska, New Zealand, and Chile. What many American fly anglers don’t realize is that there are world class fly fishing streams and rivers in the lower 48 states as well, and they might be right in your backyard.
Alaska Fly Fishing Destinations
Alaska is considered by many anglers as the fishing Mecca of the world. There is not only deep sea fishing for halibut and salmon along the hundreds of miles of coastline, but countless backcountry rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes full of native species of trout and grayling to cast to, not to mention the epic runs up the rivers by the five different species of salmon. Because of the remote nature and natural beauty of this fishing paradise, Alaska fly fishing destinations rank in the top locations in the world.
New Zealand Fly Fishing Destinations
New Zealand is another destination for fly anglers to explore. The crystal clear rivers and streams of this small south pacific island are home to large native brown trout that fight aggressively. The blue color of the water is almost unreal to behold, and the long flight to this fishing paradise is worth it just to get a glimpse of the natural beauty with your own eyes. New Zealand fly fishing destinations will not disappoint in the quality of the fishing, the size of the fish, and the splendor of the scenery.
Chile Fly Fishing Destinations
Chile’s Patagonia is another premier fly fishing location in the world. The rustic and rugged backcountry adventure that awaits you in this wild location might not offer the diverse wildlife that Alaska has to offer, but the quality of fishing is right up there with the best fishing in the world. Native brown trout are the main draw here, and the blue waters are reminiscent of New Zealand. The fact that there are few people around and a minimal civilization impact adds to the mystique of fishing and exploring the Patagonia.
Fishing Your Own Backyard
I have been lucky enough to fly fish all of these locations in my life. They all offer exactly what is described above – natural beauty, native species of large fish, and the ability to explore new waters. What I have determined recently is that I don’t need to fly around the world to find world class fly fishing. The lower 48 states offers a wide variety of US fly fishing destinations that can match these other ‘world class’ destinations in at least a few of the categories. Let’s focus on the western states as an example. Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, and Colorado are rocky mountain states that all have multiple blue ribbon trout streams. I have been fortunate enough to live many years right in the middle of these many different western US fly fishing destinations, and I have not been disappointed. The fact that some of these fantastic rivers are only a few hours drive away makes it very appealing to stay closer to home and explore new waters here. I might not get the chance to fish alongside a grizzly bear or practice my Spanish, but the fishing I have found is every bit as good.
There are a lot of different destinations for fly anglers to get their exploration and wanderlust fixes appeased. These include Alaska, Chile, and New Zealand, but also include many different rivers and streams in the lower 48 states of the US. Look around and find some new waters to explore, and as always, happy fishing!
What is your favorite fly fishing destination in the world? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below. Thanks!
