Guided Centrepin Fishing on Farmington River
Private Trip
River Fishing
8hour guided centrepin fishing adventure on Farmington RiverAll equipment and gear provided by experienced guidesSmall group experience with maximum 2 guests per trip
Looking to master centrepin fishing while targeting some of Connecticut's finest trout? Captain Jason Reichler knows the Farmington River like the back of his hand, and he's ready to show you why this legendary tailwater consistently produces trophy-class brook, brown, and rainbow trout. This isn't your typical guided trip – we're talking about learning one of the most rewarding techniques in fly fishing while working some of the most productive water in New England. With all gear provided and a full 8 hours on the water, you'll walk away with skills that'll last a lifetime and hopefully some serious fish photos to match.
The Farmington River's West Branch below the dam creates the perfect storm for world-class trout fishing. Cold, consistent water temps and steady flows mean these fish are active year-round, but they're also educated – which is where Captain Jason's expertise really shines. Your 8-hour adventure starts early, giving us prime time to work the best runs before other anglers hit the water. We'll focus on classic tailwater structure: deep pools, undercut banks, and those sweet transition zones where fast water meets slow. The beauty of centrepin fishing here is how naturally your presentation drifts through these holding spots. Unlike traditional spinning gear, the centrepin reel lets your bait move with the current exactly like nature intended. You'll be amazed at how many more strikes you get when your drift looks completely natural. Jason provides all the rods, reels, and terminal tackle, so you can focus purely on learning the technique and reading the water.
Centrepin fishing might look simple, but there's serious art to getting it right. Your reel has no drag system – just a smooth, free-spinning drum that matches your line speed perfectly with the current. The key is controlling that drift with subtle thumb pressure and rod positioning. Captain Jason will teach you the fundamentals: how to load your rod for the perfect cast, when to apply thumb pressure, and most importantly, how to read the water to predict where trout are holding. We'll start with basic drift techniques in easier water, then progress to more challenging runs as your confidence builds. The gear setup is crucial too – long, sensitive rods paired with high-quality centrepin reels that Jason maintains to tournament standards. You'll be working with proven terminal rigs: everything from simple bead setups to more complex multi-fly presentations depending on conditions. By midday, you'll understand why centrepin enthusiasts are so passionate about this method. When you hook into a strong rainbow on light tackle with zero drag resistance, the fight is absolutely electric.
Brook trout in the Farmington are the river's crown jewel – native fish with incredible colors that really pop against the clear water. These beauties typically run 8 to 14 inches, but don't let their size fool you. Brookies fight with serious attitude, often jumping multiple times and making blistering runs toward cover. Fall is prime time for brook trout as they start their spawning preparation, becoming more aggressive and feeding heavily. You'll find them in the deeper pools during warm weather, but they'll move shallow to feed during cooler mornings and evenings. What makes catching Farmington brookies so special is their wild genetics – these aren't stocked fish, they're naturally reproducing natives with that classic spotted pattern and orange-rimmed fins that photograph beautifully.
Brown trout represent the real trophies here, with fish regularly pushing 16 to 20 inches and occasional monsters exceeding two feet. These are smart, spooky fish that require perfect presentations and quality gear. Browns love structure – fallen logs, undercut banks, and deep pocket water where they can ambush prey while staying hidden. Spring and fall offer the best brown trout action when water temps are ideal and these fish are actively feeding to prepare for spawning. The centrepin technique really shines for browns because your bait drifts naturally without any artificial drag that might spook these educated fish. When you connect with a quality brown on the Farmington, expect a methodical fight with powerful runs and head shakes that'll test both your equipment and technique.
Rainbow trout bring pure excitement to every drift. Farmington rainbows are famous for their acrobatic fights – these fish go airborne repeatedly and make screaming runs that'll have your centrepin reel singing. Most rainbows here run 12 to 16 inches, with their silver flanks and pink stripe creating stunning contrast in the clear water. Unlike browns that prefer cover, rainbows often hold in faster water and aren't afraid to chase down a good presentation. Summer brings excellent rainbow action as these fish stay active even in warmer conditions, though early morning and evening sessions produce the most consistent results. The key with Farmington rainbows is being ready for that explosive strike – they don't nibble, they crush your offering and immediately start their aerial show.
CT Pin Fishing Guide Service offers something genuinely unique on the Farmington River. Captain Jason's commitment to teaching proper centrepin techniques, combined with his intimate knowledge of this renowned tailwater, creates the perfect environment for both learning and catching quality trout. With all equipment provided and a full 8 hours to work different sections of river, you're getting exceptional value for a top-rated guided experience. The two-angler capacity means personalized instruction and plenty of opportunities to work productive water. Whether you're completely new to centrepin fishing or looking to refine your technique, this trip delivers both education and action. The Farmington River's consistent flows and healthy trout populations make it one of New England's most reliable fisheries, and Jason's local expertise ensures you'll make the most of your time on the water. Don't miss your chance to learn from one of Connecticut's premier centrepin specialists while targeting some truly beautiful wild trout.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrook trout are the native gems of the Farmington River, typically running 8-14 inches with stunning olive-green backs and red spots circled in blue. These spirited fish love cold, clean water under 68°F and hang out near fallen trees, boulders, and undercut banks in the smaller tributaries. Spring through early summer offers the best action when they're actively feeding on insects. What makes brookies special is their wild nature - they're incredibly wary and put up a scrappy fight that'll surprise you for their size. Plus, they're hands-down the best eating trout you'll find. My local tip: look for the white leading edge on their fins to distinguish them from other trout, and fish the pocket water behind rocks where they love to hold.
Tylosurus AcusBrown trout are the craftiest fish in the Farmington, averaging 12-20 inches but capable of reaching trophy sizes over 24 inches. These golden-brown beauties with black spots prefer deeper pools, undercuts, and structure during the day, becoming more aggressive feeders at dusk and dawn. Fall is prime time when they're feeding heavily before winter, though they bite year-round in our tailwater. Anglers love browns because they're incredibly smart fighters that test your skills - they'll use every trick in the book to break you off. The meat is excellent too, with a mild, sweet flavor. Here's a guide secret: during bright conditions, focus on the shadowy water near banks and overhanging cover where big browns feel secure enough to feed.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are the acrobats of the Farmington, typically measuring 10-16 inches with their signature pink stripe and black-spotted silver bodies. They prefer the main current flows and gravelly runs, often holding in mid-depth water columns where they can easily grab drifting food. Spring and fall produce the hottest action, especially during mayfly and caddis hatches. What guests love most is their aerial show - rainbows jump like crazy when hooked, making for some wild fights. They're also great table fare with firm, flaky meat. The Farmington's tailwater keeps them active all season since water temps stay consistent. Pro tip: watch for risers during evening hours and match whatever bugs are coming off - these fish can be picky but are worth the effort when you dial it in.
Farmington River