Where to Find Chub
This map highlights global observations of chub (Squalius cephalus), helping you identify the continents, countries, and waters where this species thrives.
Stay tuned for more details! If you have fly fishing tips or insights about chub, we’d love to hear from you.
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Atlantic Salmon (Salmo Salar): A Prized Catch for Anglers
Where to Find Atlantic Salmon
This map shows global observations of Atlantic salmon, highlighting the continents, countries, and waters where this iconic species thrives.
Hook a 30lb Atlantic salmon, and any notion of fly fishing as a gentle pastime will vanish. These fish are sheer power and defiance, making them a legendary catch.
Had Shakespeare been an angler, he might have written a play about Atlantic salmon. They spend most of their lives at sea before battling upstream—often against incredible odds—to spawn and die. Today, illegal netting and fish farming’s environmental impact make their journey even more perilous, adding urgency to the phrase: "while you still can."
The Challenge of Atlantic Salmon
Atlantic salmon start at a formidable 25 pounds, packing on muscle from a diet of crab, shrimp, and fish while at sea. This strength allows them to endure months without food as they migrate upstream.
Yet, they still take flies—a mystery anglers continue to unravel. While fishing prime rivers during peak seasons can be costly, affordable beats remain for those seeking this thrilling pursuit.
How to Fly Fish for Atlantic Salmon
While these guidelines aren’t rigid, they provide a solid foundation:
- Early/Late Season: Fish big flies deep. Salmon often hide in sheltered lies away from strong currents to conserve energy. Target slow, deep pools in normal water levels and near riverbanks during high water.
- Late Spring to Early Autumn: Switch to small flies near the surface. Lighter gear, even a trout rod, can suffice.
Technique:
- Cast across the river, letting the current swing the fly downstream until it rests below you. Recast to keep the fly just above the riverbed.
- Move slowly—cold-water salmon won’t chase fast-moving flies. Take a step downstream after each cast to cover the entire pool.
In warmer months, focus on deep water below fast stretches (though don’t ignore oxygen-rich "white water" areas). Swing your fly slowly, keeping it on or just under the surface.
Best Flies for Atlantic Salmon
- Cold Water: Use large tube flies (up to 3 inches) to provoke sluggish salmon. The two-part design prevents hook leverage, reducing the risk of escape. The Willie Gunn is a standout choice.
- Warm Water: Switch to size 8–10 conventional flies, downsizing to 12–14 in summer. Favorites include the Curry’s Red Shrimp, Munro Killer (for slow stretches), and Stoat’s Tail (versatile for all waters).
- Summer Surface Fishing: Try a Humpy or Bi-Visible, especially over choppy water.
This guide equips you to tackle one of fly fishing’s greatest challenges—the mighty Atlantic salmon. Tight lines!
Where to Find Brook Trout
This map shows global observations of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), highlighting the continents, countries, and waters where this species thrives.
Prime Fly Fishing Locations
Native to Eastern North America, brook trout inhabit rivers, lakes, and streams across Canada and the United States. They’ve also been introduced to parts of Europe and Asia, including Iceland and Scandinavia.
In the U.S., the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states—particularly Pennsylvania, New York, and Vermont—offer exceptional brook trout fishing. Notable spots include:
- Au Sable River (Michigan)
- Rapid River (Maine)
- Shavers Fork River (West Virginia)
Internationally, renowned destinations include Norway’s Alta River and Iceland’s Laxá í Adaldal River.
Fly Fishing Techniques
- Fall (Spawning Season): Brook trout become aggressive, making streamer fishing highly effective.
- Spring (Post-Hatch): After eggs hatch, young trout (fry) feed heavily on small insects—nymphing works best.
- Summer: Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for dry fly fishing, as brook trout often surface-feed.
Best Flies for Brook Trout
Match your fly selection to local insect hatches. Popular choices (also effective for brown trout, grayling, and rainbow trout) include:
- Adams: A versatile dry fly imitating various insects.
- Elk Hair Caddis: Mimics caddisflies, a brook trout staple.
- Pheasant Tail Nymph: Ideal for mayfly nymph imitations.
- Woolly Bugger: A streamer mimicking leeches or small fish.
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