A steep and deep freestone river flowing out of the high peaks of New York’s Adirondack Mountains, the West Branch Ausable is known internationally for its beautiful surroundings, wildlife, and world-class fly fishing for trout.
Including the towns of Wilmington, Jay, Upper Jay, and Au Sable Forks, the Whiteface Region of the Adirondacks provides a jumping-off point for a trout fishing trip on the Ausable with easy-access points just a few steps from the car to trout-filled pools far from the trailhead where you’re unlikely to encounter another angler.
The West Branch Ausable holds a strong population of brown, brook and rainbow trout that range from 10 to 17 inches, with some larger. A wide variety of hatches provide dry fly opportunities from spring to early fall, while the river’s plentiful pocket waters provide productive nymph fishing all season long.
Betters also created the Usual, another Ausable staple. An attractor fly tied with the fur from the foot of a snowshoe hare, the Usual imitates no insect in particular, and can be dead-drifted, skittered across the surface, or even swung as a wet fly.
Most fly-fishermen on the Ausable use 4- or 5-weight rods, and while catch-and-release areas provide year ‘round fishing opportunities, the peak season, which coincides with the largest hatches and highest trout activity, runs from April through October. Learn more about access and the West Branch Ausable here.
Ample access points allow anglers to fish the Ausable on their own, but anglers looking to shorten the learning curve on this beautiful river can hire a knowledgeable local guide through the Hungry Trout Fly Shop or Adirondack Anglers. Half-day, four-hour wading trips start at $275 for a single angler, while full-day, eight-hour excursions begin at $375 for one angler, with guides able to accommodate up to three anglers. Adirondack Anglers also offers two-hour “Learn to Fly Fish” courses that are ideal for families or anglers who are looking to jumpstart their interest in fly fishing.
Lodging in the region includes campgrounds, b and bs, cabins, hotels, and classic Adirondack camps that allow vistors to wake up in plain view of the high peaks.
