Fall means many things to the fly angler: wet wading is likely coming to a quick close, summer crowds retreat from the rivers, easing pressure and once again restoring solitude, and nearly every species of fish begins to feed aggressively in preparation for the colder months ahead.
This fall, consider hitting the road for some of the best fly action of the season:
Coldwater Bonanza in The Rangely Region:
Nestled near the New Hampshire border, Maine’s Rangeley region is a bucket-list destination for East Coast fly anglers. With vast stretches of untouched wilderness, it’s home to vibrant brook trout and wild landlocked Atlantic salmon, the undisputed stars of the fall season.
While legendary rivers like the Kennebago, Magalloway, and Rapid often steal the spotlight, the region’s lesser-known small streams and secluded beaver ponds offer equally rewarding fishing and a chance to explore waters less traveled.
East Coast fly fishing often means making tactical casts, in and around overgrown streams, for precision accuracy, the IMX-PRO V2 is a great option.
Dealer Spotlight: Trident Fly Fishing, 190 Riverside St, Portland, ME 04103
Muskies on the Fly:
The Upper Midwest is home to some of the finest multi species fly fishing the country has to offer, with a mix of both warm water and cold-water species available. However, for many, there is no substitute for the thrill that comes along with chasing a muskie on the fly rod.
From Michigan, West to Wisconsin and Minnesota, top locations include Lake St. Clair, the Chippewa Flowage, and the St. Louis River Estuary system.
Fly fishing for muskies requires a dialed tackle system, starting with a durable rod, capable of slinging big baits for as long as it takes, built for muskie anglers, the IMX-PRO Muskie is ready for big fish.
Dealer Spotlight: Schultz Outfitters, 4 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Trout Paradise in Pisgah
Western North Carolina is hard to top for trout anglers, with mountain streams and highland reservoirs tucked around every corner. The Davidson River stands out as the crown jewel, known for its legendary brown trout and a healthy mix of brook and rainbow trout to round out the experience.
While the entire river offers productive fishing, the stretch flowing through Pisgah National Forest is a true national treasure, featuring exceptional angling, cascading waterfalls, and the unmistakable beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Big things come in small packages, and the IMX-PRO Creek rod from G. Loomis is no different, a great choice for small waters, or hike in destinations.
Dealer Spotlight: Davidson River Outfitters, 49 Pisgah HWY #6, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Deschutes River Steelhead
No fly angler’s journey is truly complete without experiencing true West Coast steel, and the Deschutes River, near Maupin Oregon, is the perfect place to start. With peak runs in September and October, the lower river offers ample access and a wealth of top-tier guides and outfitters to help get the adventure in motion.
Line speed, power, and “feel” all help in turning the steelhead trip of a lifetime into a success, the NRX + Spey, was designed for spey anglers with all the intricacies of the technique top of mind.
Dealer Spotlight: Stop by Deschutes Angler Fly Shop, in Maupin, OR 97037