17 Best Places To Fly Fish In The World

You’ve probably heard that the world’s best fly fishing spots require exotic travel and hefty budgets, but that’s only half the story. While destinations like Christmas Island and Tierra del Fuego certainly deliver world-class experiences, some of the planet’s most productive waters sit right in your backyard—or at least closer than you’d think. The real secret isn’t just location; it’s knowing which seventeen destinations consistently produce the kind of fishing that’ll redefine your understanding of what’s possible.

Key Points

• Historic English chalk streams like River Test offer pristine wild brown trout fishing with crystal-clear water and traditional dry fly techniques.
• Montana’s blue-ribbon waters including Madison and Beaverhead Rivers provide trophy trout fishing with spectacular mountain scenery and reliable hatches.
• Argentina’s legendary rivers like Río Grande and Río Malleo feature massive sea-run browns and rainbows exceeding 20 inches in remote wilderness settings.
• Saltwater flats destinations such as Andros Island, Bahamas offer world-class bonefishing, permit, and tarpon on pristine tropical flats.
• Technical tailwater fisheries like San Juan River, New Mexico and Green River, Utah provide consistent year-round fishing with prolific insect life.

River Test, England

When you cast your line into England’s River Test, you’re fishing waters that have shaped the sport for centuries. This Hampshire chalk stream flows crystal clear over gravel beds, creating perfect conditions for wild brown trout.

You’ll find these fish feeding selectively on mayflies, caddisflies, and other aquatic insects.

The Test demands precision casting and delicate presentations. Its educated trout won’t chase flashy flies – they’ve seen every trick.

You’ll need to match the hatch exactly and present your fly with surgical accuracy. The river’s shallow, gin-clear water means fish spot you easily, so stealth is essential.

Book through established beats like Broadlands or Longparish. Expect strict etiquette, traditional methods only, and higher prices.

But you’re paying for pristine water, expert ghillies, and the chance to fish where dry fly fishing was perfected.

Pack a well-stocked first aid kit since remote river locations may be far from medical assistance if accidents occur.

Madison River, Montana

From England’s refined chalk streams, we head west to Montana’s Madison River, where raw power meets technical fishing. You’ll find this legendary blue-ribbon trout stream flowing through some of America’s most spectacular scenery, with the Madison Range towering overhead.

The river’s three distinct sections offer different experiences. Below Hebgen Lake, you’ll encounter technical spring creek conditions with selective brown trout. The middle section provides classic freestone fishing with strong rainbow and brown trout populations. Below Ennis Lake, you’re looking at bigger water with larger fish.

You’ll need varied tactics here – dry flies work during prolific hatches, while nymphing proves deadly year-round. The Madison’s strong currents demand solid casting skills and proper weight distribution.

Plan your visit between June and October for ideal conditions. For adventurous anglers seeking alpine challenges, the nearby mountains offer exceptional glacier climbing opportunities on some of the best trails in the US.

Henry’s Fork, Idaho

While Montana’s Madison delivers raw power, Idaho’s Henry’s Fork represents the pinnacle of technical dry fly fishing. You’ll face some of America’s most educated trout in crystal-clear spring water that reveals every fishing mistake. The Railroad Ranch section demands perfect presentations and drag-free drifts.

Your success here depends on mastering these essentials:

• Ultra-light tippets – 6X to 7X fluorocarbon for spooky rainbow trout
• Small dry flies – PMDs, Blue-winged Olives, and Tricos in sizes 18-22
• Precise casting – Long, accurate casts with gentle landings
• Reading micro-currents – Complex water requires understanding subtle flow patterns

You’ll discover why Henry’s Fork humbles experienced anglers while rewarding those who’ve perfected their craft. The selective trout here will test every skill you’ve developed. Consider whether renting or buying a boat makes sense for accessing the more remote sections of this legendary water.

Río Grande, Tierra Del Fuego

After mastering the technical challenges of Henry’s Fork, you’ll find a completely different adventure awaits at Argentina’s Río Grande in Tierra del Fuego. This remote river offers world-class sea-run brown trout fishing in one of Earth’s most pristine wilderness settings.

From technical precision to raw wilderness adventure – Río Grande delivers massive sea-run browns in Tierra del Fuego’s untamed waters.

You’ll encounter massive browns that migrate from the Atlantic Ocean, often weighing 15-20 pounds or more. The best fishing occurs during Argentina’s summer months (December through March) when these powerful fish return to spawn.

The wind here is legendary and challenging – you’ll need heavy rods and strong casting skills. Pack quality rain gear and warm layers, as Patagonian weather changes rapidly.

Book with experienced local guides who know the water intimately and can help you navigate this incredible but demanding fishery. Río Grande consistently ranks among the top fishing destinations globally for anglers seeking trophy-sized sea-run browns.

Christmas Island, Kiribati

Thousands of miles from Argentina’s windswept shores, Christmas Island in Kiribati presents the ultimate saltwater flats fishing experience. You’ll wade through crystal-clear lagoons targeting some of the ocean’s most challenging species. The island’s remote location means pristine waters and fish that haven’t seen many flies.

Your primary targets here include:

• Bonefish – Abundant populations cruise the shallow flats
• Giant Trevally – Aggressive predators that’ll test your tackle
• Permit – The holy grail of flats fishing awaits patient anglers
• Triggerfish – Notoriously spooky but rewarding when landed

You’ll need quality saltwater gear and accurate casting skills. The consistent trade winds can challenge beginners, but they also keep temperatures comfortable. Book through specialized outfitters who understand the island’s unique fishing conditions and seasonal patterns. Many visiting anglers find that staying at scenic RV parks along the mainland coasts provides an excellent base for planning their remote fishing expeditions.

Bow River, Alberta

Flowing through Calgary and into the Canadian Rockies, Alberta’s Bow River offers world-class trout fishing just minutes from urban amenities. You’ll find healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout throughout the system, with fish averaging 14-18 inches and some reaching trophy size.

World-class trout fishing flows through Calgary into the Canadian Rockies, offering trophy-sized brown and rainbow trout just minutes from the city.

The river’s consistent flows and nutrient-rich waters create ideal conditions year-round. You can wade easily in most sections, though you’ll want to respect private property boundaries. Prime spots include the stretch below the Bearspaw Dam and areas near Canmore.

Winter fishing’s surprisingly productive here – the river rarely freezes completely. Pack nymphs, streamers, and dry flies depending on the season.

You’ll appreciate the stunning mountain backdrop while casting to rising trout in one of Canada’s most accessible blue-ribbon fisheries. Many anglers combine their fishing trips with family camping adventures in the nearby Canadian Rockies for the ultimate outdoor experience.

San Juan River, New Mexico

Below the Navajo Dam in northwestern New Mexico, the San Juan River transforms into one of America’s most productive trout fisheries. You’ll find crystal-clear waters holding massive brown and rainbow trout year-round. The dam releases create consistent water temperatures and flows that support incredible insect hatches.

This tailwater fishery offers technical challenges that’ll test your skills. The fish are educated and selective, requiring precise presentations with smaller flies. You’ll need to master drag-free drifts and subtle takes.

What makes the San Juan special:

• Over 5,000 trout per mile in quality water sections
• Year-round fishing with consistent 42-degree water temperatures
• Prolific midge and mysis shrimp populations
• Trophy browns exceeding 20 inches regularly caught

The Texas Hole remains the most famous stretch, though downstream areas offer excellent fishing with fewer crowds. When wading through tall grass or brushy areas along the riverbank, take precautions against tick bites by wearing long pants and checking your clothing regularly.

River Spey, Scotland

Scotland’s River Spey stands as the crown jewel of Atlantic salmon fishing, winding through the heart of the Highlands with a reputation that’s earned reverence from anglers worldwide.

You’ll find yourself casting traditional spey flies across classic pools like the Grantown Beat and Castle Grant waters.

The season runs from February through September, with spring and autumn offering your best chances at landing these legendary fish.

You’ll need to master the spey casting technique—long, flowing casts that work perfectly with the river’s character.

Book through established ghillies who know every pool intimately.

The Spey demands patience and skill, but when you hook into a wild Atlantic salmon against the backdrop of Scottish moors, you’ll understand why this river remains fishing’s holy grail.

When planning your fishing expedition to the Spey, remember to pack essential camping gear if you’re staying overnight along the riverbanks to maximize your angling opportunities.

Beaverhead River, Montana

From Scotland’s salmon waters, we head to Montana’s Beaverhead River, where you’ll discover some of America’s most productive trout fishing in surprisingly intimate surroundings.

Tucked away in Montana’s ranch country, the Beaverhead offers world-class trout fishing in pristine, intimate waters few anglers ever experience.

This spring creek flows crystal-clear through private ranch land, creating perfect conditions for selective brown and rainbow trout. You’ll need to book guided access since most of the river runs through private property, but it’s worth every penny.

The Beaverhead’s consistent water temperatures and abundant insect life create year-round fishing opportunities. Here’s what makes this river special:

• Technical fishing – These educated trout require precise presentations and leader-shy approaches
• Trophy browns – Fish over 20 inches lurk in undercut banks and deeper pools
• Consistent hatches – Expect reliable BWO, PMD, and caddis emergences throughout the season
• Scenic setting – Fish surrounded by Montana’s stunning Pioneer Mountains

If you’re planning to bring your four-legged companion along for the adventure, remember that camping safely with your dog requires proper preparation and awareness of the wilderness environment.

Río Malleo, Argentina

Thousands of miles south in Argentina’s Patagonia region, the Río Malleo offers world-class trout fishing that’ll challenge even experienced anglers. You’ll find massive brown and rainbow trout in these crystal-clear waters, with fish regularly exceeding 20 inches.

The river’s technical fishing demands precise presentations and delicate approaches – these trout are incredibly selective.

You can wade most sections, but hiring a local guide is smart since they know where trophy fish hold. The season runs October through April, with December to March offering peak conditions.

Bring dry flies, nymphs, and streamers – you’ll need variety to match the abundant insect life.

Access is primarily through San Martín de los Andes, where you’ll find comfortable lodges and experienced outfitters ready to help you tackle this legendary water. While enjoying this pristine wilderness, remember that insect bites can transmit diseases, so pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing for your fishing adventure.

Andros Island, Bahamas

Just 25 miles west of Nassau, Andros Island transforms saltwater fly fishing into an art form with its endless maze of shallow flats, mangrove creeks, and crystal-clear waters. You’ll discover why this Caribbean paradise attracts anglers seeking world-class bonefishing and permit fishing.

The island’s pristine ecosystem offers unparalleled opportunities:

• Bonefish abundance – Massive schools patrol the flats in gin-clear water
• Permit hotspots – Some of the Caribbean’s most consistent permit fishing
• Tarpon encounters – Juvenile and adult tarpon frequent the deeper channels
• Barracuda action – Aggressive predators provide explosive strikes

You’ll wade ankle-deep flats where spotting fish becomes second nature. Local guides know every creek and flat, maximizing your chances of hooking trophy fish.

The island’s remote location means lighter fishing pressure and healthier fish populations than more accessible destinations. For overnight fishing adventures in remote areas, consider bringing a hammock as a lightweight and practical sleeping solution that works well in jungle environments.

Green River, Utah

Beneath Utah’s red rock canyons, the Green River carves through some of America’s most spectacular trout water, offering world-class dry fly fishing in a setting that’ll leave you breathless.

The tailwater below Flaming Gorge Dam produces massive rainbow and brown trout that’ll test your skills. You’ll find consistent water temperatures and prolific insect hatches year-round, making it a reliable destination regardless of season.

Focus on the A Section below the dam for the best fishing – it’s where you’ll encounter trophy-sized browns lurking in deep pools. Bring plenty of midge patterns, BWOs, and PMDs since these comprise the river’s primary food sources.

Wade carefully through the rocky bottom, and don’t overlook the slower eddies where smart fish often feed. The scenery alone makes this trip worthwhile.

Many anglers combine their Green River fishing adventure with an RV vacation, allowing families to explore multiple fishing spots while enjoying comfortable accommodations in Utah’s stunning landscape.

River Itchen, England

Flowing through Hampshire’s chalk downs, the River Itchen represents the pinnacle of English chalk stream fishing, where selective brown trout demand absolute precision with your presentation.

You’ll need to master upstream dry fly techniques on this crystal-clear water, where fish can spot every flaw in your approach.

The Itchen’s educated trout require surgical accuracy:

• Stealth approach – Stay low and move slowly; these fish are easily spooked
• Long, fine leaders – Use 12-15 foot leaders with 6X or 7X tippet
• Perfect drag-free drifts – Any unnatural movement will refuse your fly
• Small patterns – Think size 18-22 flies matching local hatches

You’ll fish classic English patterns like the Iron Blue Dun and Grannom.

The best beats require advance booking through fishing clubs or guides, but the experience of fooling these sophisticated trout makes every effort worthwhile.

During long fishing sessions, you’ll want to plan ahead for restroom locations since facilities are limited along most remote stretches of the river.

Snake River, Wyoming

While England’s chalk streams test your technical precision, Wyoming’s Snake River will challenge you with explosive cutthroat trout action against the backdrop of the Grand Tetons. You’ll find prime fishing from Jackson Lake Dam downstream to Moose, where massive Yellowstone cutthroats hunt in deep pools and fast runs.

Launch your drift boat early morning or wade the accessible banks near Oxbow Bend. These native trout average 16-20 inches and fight like they’re twice that size. You’ll need sturdy 5-6 weight rods and streamers that mimic sculpin and whitefish.

Time your visit between July and September when runoff subsides and terrestrial patterns work magic. The scenery alone makes this destination unforgettable, but landing a chrome-bright Snake River cutthroat will keep you planning your return trip.

For those seeking affordable fishing adventures, Oregon’s waters offer excellent alternatives with diverse species and budget-friendly access points.

Río Chimehuin, Argentina

Deep in Argentina’s Patagonia region, Río Chimehuin delivers some of the planet’s most technical brown trout fishing, where selective fish demand perfect presentations in crystal-clear water.

You’ll face educated browns that’ve seen every fly pattern imaginable. These fish cruise shallow runs and deep pools, inspecting your offerings with PhD-level scrutiny. The river’s gin-clear water means they’ll spot imperfect drifts from yards away.

Key considerations for Río Chimehuin success:

• Timing matters – Fish early morning and late evening when browns feel comfortable feeding
• Go small and natural – Size 18-22 nymphs and dry flies in muted colors work best
• Perfect your presentation – Long, light leaders and delicate casts are essential
• Stay low and quiet – These fish spook easily in shallow, clear water

Success here elevates your technical skills permanently.

Key Largo, Florida

From Argentina’s crystal-clear mountain waters, we shift to Florida’s turquoise flats where tarpon, bonefish, and permit create the saltwater grand slam challenge that’s humbled anglers for generations.

Three legendary species on Florida’s pristine flats combine to form fishing’s most coveted and elusive saltwater grand slam challenge.

You’ll find yourself poling across shallow flats in skinny water, sight-fishing for “silver kings” that’ll test every ounce of your skill and tackle. The tarpon fishing here peaks from April through July, when 100-pound fish cruise the backcountry looking for crabs and baitfish.

Don’t overlook the bonefish and permit that ghost across these same flats. These spooky fish demand perfect presentations and lightning-quick reflexes. You’ll need a quality 8-10 weight rod, floating line, and an experienced guide who knows these waters intimately.

Book your trip during the cooler months for the most comfortable conditions and consistent action. Having the right camping gear innovations can enhance your multi-day fishing adventures when you’re planning to stay overnight near prime fishing spots.

Deschutes River, Oregon

Oregon’s Deschutes River cuts through high desert canyon country, offering world-class steelhead and trout fishing that’ll challenge your technique and reward your persistence. You’ll find pristine waters flowing for 100+ miles, with summer steelhead runs from July through October and resident rainbow trout year-round.

The river’s technical nature demands precision casting and drag-free drifts. You’ll need to read complex currents while managing long, demanding wades through boulder-strewn pools.

Prime fishing opportunities include:

• Summer steelhead – Wild fish averaging 6-8 pounds
• Redside rainbow trout – Aggressive natives up to 20 inches
• Dry fly fishing – Exceptional hatches during spring and fall
• Guided drift trips – Professional expertise for challenging waters

Reserve camping spots early, as this designated Wild and Scenic River draws anglers worldwide. Many anglers planning extended fishing trips should avoid common RV mistakes when selecting recreational vehicles for accessing remote fishing locations along the river.

Sum Up

You’ve explored legendary rivers, you’ve discovered pristine flats, and you’ve uncovered trophy waters spanning five continents. Whether you’re casting dry flies on England’s Test, pursuing bonefish in Christmas Island’s turquoise shallows, or battling sea-run browns in Patagonia’s wilderness, each destination offers something extraordinary. Pack your gear, book your guide, and chase the adventure that’s calling you. These waters won’t fish themselves—it’s time to make those fly fishing dreams reality.