22-year Catskills guide with deep knowledge of the Beaverkill and Delaware river system. Specializes in dry fly fishing and euro nymphing. Orvis-Endorsed. Works well with all levels from complete beginners to expert anglers.
Esopus Creek specialist with 12 years guiding the wild rainbow trout water of Catskill Park. Focuses on nymphing and reading freestone water. Known for excellent instruction technique. Women-only trips available on request.
Upper Delaware specialist focusing on drift boat fishing on the big water. 18 years guiding the West Branch and Main Stem. Exceptional streamer angler — the October brown trout fishing on his home stretch is some of the best in the East.
Livingston Manor-based guide who focuses on the Willowemoc and lower Beaverkill. Particularly strong teaching guide — half his bookings are beginners who leave fishing independently. Patient, methodical, deeply knowledgeable about entomology.
Catskill waters that matter
The Catskills hold some of the most storied fly fishing water in the world. Each river has its own character, its own hatches, and its own demands on the angler.
The most famous trout stream in America. Theodore Gordon fished here. The Catskill style of fly tying was born on its banks. Wild brown trout to 20+ inches in its most remote pools. Access via Route 17 corridor from Livingston Manor to Roscoe.
Fed by the Schoharie Reservoir through Shandaken Tunnel, the Esopus runs cold and fast year-round. Wild rainbow trout fishery in Catskill Park — one of the strongest in the region. Challenging wading and demanding fishing that rewards patience.
Tailwater fishery below Cannonsville Reservoir running cold all season. One of the most productive trout rivers in the Northeast — exceptionally large wild browns in its deep pools. Drift boat access essential for covering the best water.
Joining the Beaverkill at Junction Pool in Roscoe, the Willowemoc is often overlooked — which is exactly why local guides love it. Less pressure, equally beautiful, and equally capable of producing memorable fish in the right conditions.
Catskills hatch calendar
The Catskills produce some of the most famous hatches in American fly fishing. This is a general guide — conditions vary year to year and river to river. Your guide will always have current intel.
Highlighted months = prime season. BWO = Blue-Winged Olive. PED = Pale Evening Dun.
Everything you need to know about fly fishing the Catskills
Why hire a guide?
The Catskills have hundreds of miles of trout water — and most of the best runs are invisible to anyone who hasn't fished them for years. A local guide eliminates the learning curve and puts you on fish the first day. Beyond access, a guide teaches you to read the water in a way that improves every subsequent trip you take, anywhere.
What to bring
- 5-weight or 6-weight fly rod — most Catskills guides can provide gear if needed
- Wading boots with felt or rubber soles (check current regulations)
- New York State fishing license — available online at dec.ny.gov
- Polarized sunglasses — essential for reading water and spotting fish
- Layers — mornings on the river are cold even in summer
- Your guide will supply flies, leaders, and tippet
Where to stay
Roscoe, NY (known as "Trout Town USA") is the central hub for Catskills fishing. The Beaverkill Valley Inn is the classic choice. Livingston Manor has several quality options. Most guides can make specific lodging recommendations based on which river you're fishing.
Getting there from NYC
The Catskills are approximately 2–2.5 hours from Manhattan via I-87 north and Route 17. Most guides meet clients at a designated access point — your guide will send directions after booking is confirmed.