Fly Fishing in New York City, NY

Fly Fishing in New York City

Has the daily grind got you down? Do you need to get out into nature and drop a line into breathtaking waters? Well, you’ll be surprised to know that the fly fishing in New York is pretty incredible and well worth exploring. Once you’re there, you won’t need to go far to find fish. Even Central Park has a healthy catch-and-release fishery that’s perfect for beginners to practice in.

There are also countless lakes, rivers, and ponds to wet a line in. Whether you have decades of fishing experience or simply want to try the sport, there’s a body of water that will suit you perfectly. New York fly fishing redefines the idea of urban angling!

What to Expect

Trip lengths vary depending on where you fish. When travel time is minimum, a 4–5-hour trip is plenty of time for fly fishing. When the bite is slower in summer, you’ll need more time on the water to really make the most of it.

Some of the best Trout fishing can be found in the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley. This is the place where fly fishing in America was born, after all! Wading is popular here, but you can also fish aboard smaller drift boats or even 25’ walkarounds, depending on which waters, in particular, you’re fishing.

Lake Ontario and Lake Erie are also accessible from New York State. Lake Ontario is one of the best places for Salmon fishing, as you can find Atlantic, Coho, and Chinook here, as well as Lake, Brown, and Rainbow Trout.

Throughout New York, April, May, and June are some of the most productive months for fly fishing. There are plenty of species to target, including Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Brown and Rainbow Trout, Walleye, and Musky. The summer months are best for dry fly fishing.

Let’s not forget about the saltwater opportunities, too. Saltwater fly fishing is also popular out of New York City. You can head out of Montauk or fish Jamaica Bay on a four-hour or eight-hour trip. You’ll be targeting False Albacore, Striped Bass, Weakfish, and Bluefish. These trips are better suited to anglers with more experience. Trips aboard a center console boat will get you to the fishing grounds quickly and you’ll have enough room to cast all around the vessel.

How to Prepare

When fishing in freshwater, everyone in your group over 16 will need a fishing license. There may also be a small fee on some lakes and rivers, especially in country parks. Always check the limit and size regulations, as well as what gear can be used on that body of water.

If you’re fishing in saltwater, you won’t need a license but must enroll in the Maritime Fishing Agency (free of charge).

Fly fishing guides usually provide rods and reels. If heading out by yourself, you’ll need a 9’ 5 wt rod to get you started. Once you’ve got your rod, all that’s left to do is grab your polarized sunglasses, bug repellant, sunscreen, and waders.

Enjoy your time fly fishing in New York this season!

New York City

4.5 / 5

Based on 26,557 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

New York City Fly Fishing Charters

Best Fly Fishing Charters in New York City

Best Fly Fishing Charters in New York City

Karen Ann Charters – 25'

NY Harbor Fishing – 21’

Karen Ann Charters

Karen Ann Charters – 21' Maritime Skiff

Price per Day

Type of Fishing

Sort by:

Winhole Charters

Cortes Outfitters

Sandy Hook Charters – Fast & Family-friendly

PrimeTime Fishing Charters

Flyway Charters

Chasing Tails Charters

Captain Dave

Fin Chaser Sportfishing-Raritan Bay

Fly Fishing in New York City