Best Places to Fly Fish in Jackson Hole For Beginners
During warmer months, fishing around Jackson Hole and the Tetons is a popular activity with a stunning backdrop. With water levels and hot spots changing, one of the best resources for fishing spots are local fishing guides - either for a guided trip, or information on sections of the river to check out. However, if you are looking for great spots around Jackson Hole that you can visit for walk-in fishing, there are quite a few. Updated information on fishing regulations and licenses in the state of Wyoming can be found online through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website.
How to purchase a Fishing License in Wyoming
In order to fish in the state of Wyoming, a current/valid Wyoming fishing license is required for fishing on all public waters state-wide. You can either purchase a daily license, or an annual license for non-residents. The single-day license costs around $15, and the annual license just over $100.
It is worth noting that if you plan to fish inside either of the surrounding national parks (Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park), there are separate regulations and licenses. Current information about these fees and licenses can easily be answered from any local fly shop. Here are a few of our favorites in town:
Fly Fishing in Grand Teton National Park
Not only are the fishing spots in Grand Teton National Park scenic, but they are great if you are looking to catch Lake Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Brown Trout. Jenny Lake is a picturesque place to cast your line for Lake Trout, while the Snake River that runs through Grand Teton National Park, providing a variety of places to walk in or float. Also, Jackson Lake is also a great place to fish.
Fly Fishing The Snake River
Known for fast flowing water, high levels, and incredible fish, the Snake River is an iconic river to fish near Jackson Hole. The Snake River is also one of the most popular spots for fishing near Jackson Hole, and the best months to fish on the river are from late March through April prior to runoff, then again from early July through the middle of November. You’ll likely find Mountain Whitefish as well as Cutthroat Trout in the river.
Places to Fly Fish Near Jackson Hole
Located within the vicinity of Jackson Hole are a variety of rivers if you’re looking for something other than The Snake River or fishing in Grand Teton National Park. Here are a few options:
The New Fork River and The Green River: Around an hour from Jackson Hole, these rivers are known for their Brown, Cutthroat, and Rainbow Trout. Specifically, the New Fork River is a legendary spot to find large Rainbow Trout.
Yellowstone National Park: Within the boundaries of the park, there are a variety of rivers to fish including the Firehole River, Lamar River, and the infamous Madison River. It’s pretty hard to top a day of fishing in America’s most iconic national park. The ongoing debate is whether the views throughout the park or the fish from the park’s rivers is more memorable.
After a day of fishing around Jackson Hole, you can grab a drink at one of Jackson’s iconic bars, or grab dinner at one of Jackson Hole’s popular local restaurants.