Franklin County is a wonderful place to get outside and connect with nature. One of the ways that locals and visitors alike love to do so is by trout fishing. The Deerfield River offers some of the best fly fishing in the eastern US both for wild and stocked trout. The stretch of river below Fife Brook Dam consists of fast moving water, undercut banks, and some deep pools where 14 to 18 inch brown, rainbow, and brook trout can be found. This stretch is great for floating while fishing. The lower river below Shelburne Falls has a mix of wild and stocked brown trout and rainbow trout, great for wade fishing.
If you’re not familiar with the area or need gear to get out there, check out these local outfitters and fly shops:
Deerfield Fly Shop
The Deerfield Fly Shop offers guided float trips, wade trips, and fly fishing lessons. All their guided trips are catch and release. You can also find all the equipment you’ll need at their full service shop, located on Elm Street in South Deerfield, MA. Visit their website for more information at deerfieldflyshop.com.
Pheasant Tail Tours
Another great local guide is Pheasant Tail Tours. They offer a variety of fishing adventures including full day tours, half day tours, and even night fishing tours. Check out their tours at pheasanttailtours.com.
Chris Jackson Fly Fishing
Chris Jackson has been a fly fishing guide for 16 years and strives to offer a fun, safe, and productive day on the water. He offers fly fishing trips in Western Massachusetts and Southern Vermont. Book a trip with Chris on his website, chrisjacksonflyfishing.com.
Overwatch Outpost
Overwatch Outpost is a sporting goods shop located on Main Street in Charlemont, Mass. They offer float fishing trips, guided wading trips, plus some of the best products around in their shop. Visit them in Charlemont or check out their website, www.overwatch-outpost.com.
Trout Unlimited
You can find more guide services on Trout Unlimited’s website. The Deerfield River chapter of Trout Unlimited advocates for the long term health of the Deerfield River as a cold water fishery. Their website has many resources for anglers. You can help them assess the health of the Deerfield River by reporting any trout you catch. Visit deerfieldrivertroutunlimited.com.
--
For more information about community happenings and real estate news visit Wanda's Blog at www.wandamooney.
Connect