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🎣 Fly Fishing in Lake Placid & Wilmington

World-class trout fishing in the heart of the Adirondacks.

The Lake Placid and Wilmington, NY region is a premier fly fishing destination in the Northeast. Nestled in the stunning Adirondack Mountains, this area offers pristine rivers, scenic surroundings, and legendary waters like the West Branch of the Ausable River — home to some of the best trout fishing on the East Coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, there's something magical about casting a fly in this part of the world. 🏞️

Waist Deep Fishing

🐟 Fish Species in Local Waters

The primary species you’ll target in the Ausable and surrounding waterways include:

  • Brown Trout 🟤

  • Brook Trout (New York’s state fish!) 🧡

  • Rainbow Trout 🌈

  • Occasional Landlocked Salmon 🐟

  • Smallmouth Bass (in lower, warmer sections) 💪

These fish thrive in the cool, oxygen-rich currents of the Ausable River and its tributaries.

📍 Top Fly Fishing Spots

Here are some of the most productive, scenic, and easily accessible locations near Lake Placid and Wilmington:

🔹 Monument Falls - Deep pools and classic riffles just outside Lake Placid.

🔹 The Flume - Fast pocket water—great for dry flies and nymphs.

🔹 Lake Everest - Flat water ideal for beginners and late evening hatches.

🔹 Fox Farm Stretch - Less pressured water with walk-in access for solitude and great hatches.

🔹 High Falls Gorge Area - Challenging terrain but rewarding waters.

🧑‍🎣 Guide Services

Booking a guide can make all the difference. These local experts will put you on the fish and help you dial in your presentation:

🔸 The Hungry Trout Fly Shop – Full-service shop + guided trips with over 30 years of experience. 🎯
🔸 Fly Fish the Adirondacks – Personalized guide service from experienced locals. 👣
🔸 Ausable River Two Fly Shop – Small, family-owned outfitter offering gear and guided wade trips. 🧵
🔸 Horrocks Outfitting – Lake Placid–based pro guide and USCG captain offering backcountry trips. 🚣

🛍️ Fly Shops & Tackle Stores

Before you hit the water, stop in for gear, flies, and expert local advice:

🪰 The Hungry Trout Fly Shop (Wilmington, NY)
🪰 Adirondack Mountain and Stream Guide Service
🪰 Two Fly Shop

📅 Hatch Chart – West Branch of the Ausable River

Timing your trip with the right hatches can increase your odds of success. Here’s a general hatch schedule for the area:

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➡️ For real-time hatch reports, check The Hungry Trout Hatch Report

🌄 Why Fish Here?

✔️ Crystal-clear, cold water from alpine springs
✔️ Wild trout in abundance
✔️ Easy public access to most stretches
✔️ Incredible mountain scenery year-round

Whether you're casting a dry fly on a calm summer evening or drifting a nymph through early spring pocket water, the Ausable River and its surroundings offer a timeless Adirondack angling experience.

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🏡 Planning Your Trip?

Pair your fishing adventure with a cozy stay at our Vacation Rental in Wilmington, NY — minutes from top fishing spots and stocked with everything you need to relax after a day on the water. 🏔️🔥

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