Things To Do

Fishing

Just you, the line and nature. There is something uniquely calming about the tradition of fishing. Vermont’s tranquil rivers, lakes and ponds offer some of the best fishing in the Northeast, making it a perfect year-round activity for both seasoned anglers and those looking to cast their first line.

Man in a stream holding a fish, wearing sunglasses and a blue cap, surrounded by trees.

From Fly Fishing to Ice Fishing, Stowe Has It All

Two people fishing in a river, examining their catch.

The area is home to experienced fishing guides who can take you to the best local spots, ensuring a rewarding experience on the water. Trout season opens in mid-April, bringing a variety of species to local waters, but fishing here is a year-round experience with plenty of opportunities to reel in different types of fish across the seasons.

If you’re looking for local experts, Stowe’s guides come highly recommended. A tackle shop is a great place to learn about local hatches, fly patterns and the state’s latest trout-stocking efforts. The diversity of Vermont’s waterways allows local guides to offer wade, bank, canoe and motorboat fishing. Choose a four or eight hour trip with Catamount Fishing Adventures, a fishing guide service, which offers fly-fishing, spin-fishing and ice-fishing.

Free Casting clinics are also offered May – September at The Fly Rod Shop, a local guide services which has been operational since 1986. Learn the techniques from their experienced staff and you’ll be able to make the perfect cast. Fly-fishing lessons are also available, or you can learn to fish with your whole family with a 3.5 hour program that teaches adults and children the basics.

Once lakes and ponds freeze in the winter and become safe to traverse, ice fishing is a unique way to experience winter in Stowe. Under the frozen sheet of ice, Northern pike, landlocked salmon and trout are still swimming strong. Anglers will drill holes through the ice to reach the fish below. Local outfitters offer guided services, ensuring you find the best spots and enjoy a safe and successful ice fishing experience during Vermont’s winter months.