The Angler's Guide to Fly Fishing the Upper Delaware River

Nestled in the picturesque Catskill Mountains, the Upper Delaware River is a world-renowned destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. Its pristine waters, diverse habitats, and abundant trout populations make it a paradise for anglers of all skill levels. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Upper Delaware River, offering insights into its prime fishing locations, effective fly fishing techniques, and the hatches that attract countless trout to its surface.

Fly-fishing Guide to the Upper Delaware River: 2nd Edition

by Paul Weamer

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	19461 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	286 pages

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Prime Fishing Locations

The Upper Delaware River stretches approximately 75 miles from Hancock, NY to Port Jervis, NY, offering a multitude of prime fishing locations. Here are some of the most popular spots:

• Hancock Pool: This section of the river is renowned for its deep pools and swift runs, creating ideal conditions for nymphing and streamer fishing.
• Skinners Falls: Known for its spectacular scenery and abundant hatches, Skinners Falls offers excellent opportunities for dry fly fishing with midges and mayflies.
• Cattaraugus Creek: A major tributary of the Delaware River, Cattaraugus Creek boasts a healthy population of wild brown trout and rainbows.
• West Branch Delaware River: Known for its remote beauty and technical fishing challenges, the West Branch is a paradise for experienced anglers seeking solitude and trophy trout.

Effective Fly Fishing Techniques

The Upper Delaware River offers a wide range of fishing opportunities, requiring anglers to master different techniques:

• Nymphing: Euro nymphing and Czech nymphing are highly effective techniques in the Delaware River, allowing anglers to present flies deep in the water column.
• Streamer Fishing: Large streamers imitating baitfish are often successful in deeper pools and runs, especially during low light conditions.
• Dry Fly Fishing: When hatches occur, dry fly fishing becomes a must. Anglers can cast flies that imitate the specific insects trout are feeding on.
• Wet Fly Fishing: Wet flies are effective for imitating emerging or drowned insects and can be fished at various depths.

Prolific Hatches

The Upper Delaware River is known for its prolific hatches, which include:

• Blue-Winged Olives (BWO): BWO hatches occur throughout the season, with the largest hatches occurring in the spring and fall.
• March Browns: These large mayflies hatch in March and April, providing excellent dry fly fishing opportunities.
• Hendricksons: Hendricksons hatch in late April and May, offering anglers the chance to experience some of the river's best dry fly fishing.
• Isonychia: Isonychia hatches occur in the summer, providing a consistent food source for trout.
• Caddis: Caddis hatches are common throughout the season, with various species emerging at different times of the year.

Tips for Fly Fishing the Upper Delaware River

• Use a Versatile Fly Rod: A 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod is suitable for most fishing conditions on the Upper Delaware River.
• Carry a Variety of Flies: Be prepared for different hatches and techniques by carrying a selection of flies, including nymphs, streamers, and dries.
• Study the River and Hatches: Pay attention to the water flow, temperature, and insect activity to determine the best fishing strategies.
• Practice Casting Accuracy: The Upper Delaware River can be technical, so it's crucial to be