Southern Vermont Fly Fishing Report
Southern Vermont Fly Fishing
Batten Kill River -
The Batten Kill begins north of Manchester, Vermont and flows south to Arlington where she turns west to the New York State line and the Hudson River. Along the the way four main streams feed her, the West Branch, Lye Brook, Roaring Branch and Green River. The lower twenty miles from the Dufresne Dam, just north of Manchester, to the state line have been designated “catch and release” since April 2000. The river is considered “wild”, since the last time she was stocked was in 1970. However, the Batten Kill was beaten badly during the 1980's and 90's; a combination of over fishing, weather and habitat degradation. The good news is she is coming back. Through the action of many groups; efforts to restore the Batten Kill are showing results.
The Batten Kill is very accessible, especially from Arlington to the state line where Route 313 runs along the north bank and River Road on the south. You will find wild and very smart Browns and Brookies in the six to twelve inch range, and if you are quiet and smart, Browns in the twenty inch range. She fishes well from after the spring melt right up to the season end the last Sunday in October. Bring your smaller flies (14 – 20's); the hatches are numerous but small. In addition, the feeder streams mentioned above are worth exploring for Brookies, especially at the beginning of the season when the main stream maybe running high. During October the Roaring Branch and Green are “catch and release” to protect the spawning Browns and Brookies.
Black River -
The Black is known for her Trophy Section where they stock two year old Browns and Rainbows. This stretch starts east of Cavendish and ends just west of Downers at the covered bridge. She is very accessible as Route 131 runs along the north bank. The Black fishes best in the early season when there is plenty of water. Streamers and nymphs are the most productive. When the water gets low and warm, you can try the deep pools just south of Downers.
Deerfield River -
There are two accessible sections of the Deerfield. The first runs along Route 9 west of Wilmington, Vermont. This section was greatly improved a few years ago when the power company was required to maintain a minimum flow between the dam in Searsburg and the Harriman Reservoir. There are numerous pools and riffles where you will find Rainbows. Where the Deerfield meets the Harriman you can cast for good size Brookies, Browns and Rainbows that are hold overs.
The second section is about 30 miles south in Massachusetts off River/Tunnel Road. This is a “catch and release” area that is open all year. Also, this is a tail water used for electric power production, so you have to keep an eye on the water level and not get caught on the far side. You will find very nice Browns and Rainbows that were stocked at some point, but have grown smarter over time.
We suggest you check out these two web sites:
Vermont Fish and Wildlife for their stocking schedule here.
Waterdata for the river and stream water flows here.