Written by: Trent Jones

The American West is a prime location for fly fishing enthusiasts, offering some of the best waters to chase trout, salmon, and steelhead. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting into the sport, these 10 fly fishing destinations in the West should be on your radar.

1. Bighorn River (Montana and Wyoming)

The Bighorn River runs through both Montana and Wyoming, offering some of the best tailwater fishing around. Known for its brown and rainbow trout, it’s an ideal spot for fly fishing, whether you’re going it solo or hiring a guide.

Tip: The Wyoming side is less ideal for dry fly fishing, but the Fort Smith side offers prime dry fly action, especially in the summer.
Best Time to Fish: Early winter through spring, though it's still a great option in summer.

2. Colorado River (Colorado)

The Colorado River is a must for those looking for big brown trout, with the opportunity to catch brook, cutthroat, and rainbow trout as well. The river is known for being a technical fishery, so having the right tackle and flies is key.

Tip: Presentation is everything. Focus on getting your flies downstream in a natural drift.
Best Time to Fish: Fishable year-round with access for wading and floating.

3. Green River (Wyoming and Utah)

This river runs through both Wyoming and Utah, offering a diverse fishing experience. With large populations of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, it’s a prime destination for anglers who want to avoid crowds and target bigger fish.

Tip: The 100 miles before Flaming Gorge Reservoir are famous for 20- to 27-inch browns.
Best Time to Fish: Great for both big fish and beautiful scenery year-round.

4. Madison River (Montana)

The Madison River is one of Montana’s iconic waters, boasting excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout. Known for its healthy insect populations, it’s an ideal location for dry fly fishing.

Tip: Use dry flies from June to August for the best action.
Best Time to Fish: Peak dry fly season runs from June to August, but fishing is good year-round.

5. Missouri River (Montana)

The Missouri River is famous for its abundance of fish and consistent conditions. With up to 6,000 fish per mile, it's a prime destination for catching brown and rainbow trout, especially for dry fly fishing.

Tip: The water is regulated by dams, ensuring steady flow and good fishing conditions year-round.
Best Time to Fish: Year-round fishing with big fish (20 inches and up) commonly caught.

6. North Platte River (Colorado and Wyoming)

Running from Colorado into Wyoming, the North Platte River offers excellent fishing for big browns, rainbows, and cutthroats. The famed “Miracle Mile” section is a hot spot for anglers.

Tip: The Miracle Mile and the Gray Reef sections offer trophy-sized fish, with some reaching 25-27 inches.
Best Time to Fish: Best fished from spring to fall, though fish year-round.

7. Rio Grande River (Colorado)

The Rio Grande River in Colorado is a drift boat-only destination for brown trout. Known for its tough fishing, this river provides excellent hatches and a healthy fish population.

Tip: Chase hatches up and down the river for the best success.
Best Time to Fish: Peak hatch season is from early June through July, but fishing is solid through the year.

8. Snake River (Wyoming)

Running through Jackson Hole and into Idaho, the Snake River is known for its beautiful natural setting and diverse trout populations. The river is home to brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout, with a unique fishing experience on its floating waters.

Tip: If you're up for a challenge, try the one-fly fishing tournament in August—only one fly is allowed for the entire day.
Best Time to Fish: Great year-round, but keep an eye on the changing bug patterns with the weather.

9. Taylor River (Colorado)

Located near Almont, Colorado, the Taylor River is famous for its rainbow trout, some reaching impressive sizes. The river is known for its clarity, making sight fishing a popular technique.

Tip: The further you go up the canyon, the bigger the rainbow trout get, with some reaching 26-30 inches.
Best Time to Fish: Excellent fishing year-round, especially during the hatches.

10. Yellowstone River (Montana)

The Yellowstone River is the longest free-flowing river in the Lower 48, offering a wide range of fishing opportunities. With multiple tributaries and stretches of river to explore, it’s perfect for anglers who want to cover miles and catch some serious trout.

Tip: Take advantage of feeder tributaries for trout spawning opportunities.
Best Time to Fish: Fishing varies with seasonal flows, but it’s one of the top fishing spots in Montana.

Ready to Cast?

From the crystal-clear waters of the Green River to the iconic Yellowstone, these 10 fly fishing destinations in the American West offer something for every angler. Whether you're looking for massive fish or peaceful, less-crowded waters, you'll find your perfect fishing spot out here in the West. So, pack your gear, grab your rod, and let the adventure begin