Full Day Wade Fishing in New Hampshire
Private Trip
River Fishing
Fullday guided fly fishing experience on New Hampshire riversProfessional instruction with Guide Kevin plus lunch includedSmall group setting accommodates up to two guests
Looking for a solid day on the water with some real fishing know-how? Freestone Guide Service's full day wade trips put you right where the fish are hiding. Guide Kevin knows these New Hampshire waters like the back of his hand, and he's genuinely excited to share what he's learned over the years. Whether you're just getting your feet wet with fly fishing or want to fine-tune your technique, this top-rated experience delivers the kind of personal attention you won't find with bigger outfitters. Plus, lunch is covered, so all you need to worry about is bringing your NH fishing license and getting ready to cast.
This isn't your typical crowded charter boat scene. Kevin keeps groups small – just two anglers max – so you get the kind of one-on-one instruction that actually sticks. You'll spend the day wading through some of New Hampshire's best fishing spots, places where the locals go when they want to get away from the weekend crowds. The pace is relaxed but productive, with plenty of time to work on your casting, learn to read the water, and understand what makes these fish tick. Kevin's got a gift for breaking down complex techniques into simple steps, so even if you've never held a fly rod before, you'll be laying down decent casts by lunch time. The scenery doesn't hurt either – these waters flow through some seriously beautiful country that'll have you reaching for your phone between hookups.
Wade fishing is all about getting intimate with the water. You're not casting from a boat deck or shoreline – you're right in there with the fish, feeling the current, reading the structure up close. Kevin will show you how to approach different water types, from the shallow riffles where trout feed aggressively to the deeper pools where the big bass like to sulk. He's got quality gear if you need it, but the real education comes from learning to move through the water without spooking everything downstream. You'll pick up the fundamentals of fly presentation, how to mend your line in moving water, and when to switch up your approach based on what the fish are telling you. The best part about wading is the stealth factor – you can get within a few feet of feeding fish if you do it right, and that's when the magic happens.
Brook trout are the jewels of New Hampshire's coldwater fishery, and for good reason. These native beauties prefer the cooler months and crystal-clear mountain streams, showing off their stunning orange bellies and intricate markings when you bring them to hand. They're typically on the smaller side – think 8 to 12 inches – but what they lack in size they make up for in fight and beauty. Spring and fall are prime time for brookies, when the water temps are just right and they're actively feeding on insects. There's something special about catching a wild brook trout in its native habitat that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Smallmouth bass bring the attitude to New Hampshire waters. These bronze fighters love rocky structure and current breaks, and they'll absolutely hammer a well-placed fly or lure. You'll find them in the 12 to 18 inch range typically, though the occasional 20-incher will remind you why smallmouths have such a devoted following. Late spring through early fall is when they're most active, especially during the warmer months when they're cruising the shallows looking for crayfish and minnows. Kevin knows exactly where these fish like to hang out, and once you hook into a smallmouth, you'll understand why they're called pound-for-pound the strongest freshwater fish.
Rainbow trout are the acrobats of the trout world, and New Hampshire's stocked rainbows put on quite a show when hooked. These fish love current and oxygenated water, often holding in faster runs where they can ambush drifting insects. Most range from 10 to 16 inches, with some holdover fish reaching respectable sizes. They're active throughout the fishing season but really shine during mayfly hatches and cooler weather patterns. What makes rainbows special is their willingness to take surface flies – there's nothing quite like watching a rainbow rise to your dry fly presentation.
Northern pike are the apex predators lurking in New Hampshire's weedy bays and backwaters. These toothy missiles can reach impressive sizes – 24 to 30 inches isn't uncommon – and they strike with explosive power that'll test your reflexes and your gear. Pike fishing is most productive during spring and fall when they're actively hunting in shallower water. Kevin knows how to target these fish with streamers and larger flies, and he'll make sure you've got the right setup to handle their razor-sharp teeth. Landing a good pike is always memorable, and the fight they put up will leave your arms feeling it the next day.
Brown trout are the clever old-timers of the trout family, known for their wariness and impressive size potential. New Hampshire's browns can live for years, growing fat on minnows, crayfish, and unwary insects. They're most active during low-light periods and cooler months, often holding in deeper pools and undercut banks during the day. These fish can reach 18 inches or more, with some true trophy fish lurking in the right waters. Browns require patience and skill to consistently fool, but when you do connect with a good one, the combination of size, strength, and cunning makes for a world-class fishing experience.
A day on the water with Kevin isn't just about catching fish – though you'll definitely do that. It's about learning skills that'll make you a better angler for years to come, exploring some of New Hampshire's most productive waters, and spending quality time with family or friends away from the everyday grind. With lunch included and small group sizes, this customer favorite trip offers serious value for anglers who want more than just a guided fishing trip. Don't
Salvelinus FontinalisNew Hampshire's native brook trout are the jewels of our mountain streams. These colorful fish average 8-12 inches with stunning olive backs, red spots ringed in blue, and that signature white-edged fin. They live in cold, clean water - usually small streams with rocky pools and overhanging cover. Spring through early summer offers the best action when water temps stay below 65°F. Brookies are scrappy fighters that'll test your skills on light tackle. They prefer insects, so dry flies and small nymphs work well. The meat is excellent eating too. Here's a local tip: look for the deepest pocket in each pool - that's where the biggest brook trout usually holds, especially during warm afternoons when they seek cooler water.
Tylosurus AcusBrown trout are the smartest fish in our New Hampshire waters, and that's what makes them so challenging. These golden-brown beauties with black spots typically run 12-18 inches and can live over a decade, getting very selective about what they eat. They hide under cut banks, around boulders, and in deep pools during daylight. Fall is prime time when they feed aggressively before winter, especially at night. Browns are notorious fighters with powerful runs that'll test your drag. The firm, mild flesh is outstanding on the table too. They prefer cooler water around 60°F and need good cover to feel secure. Night fishing with streamers can be deadly, but here's a daytime trick: focus on the deepest, darkest holes and use small, natural-colored flies.
Esox LuciusNorthern pike are the apex predators lurking in New Hampshire's weedy bays and shallow backwaters. These toothy green missiles average 24-30 inches but can stretch much longer. They love areas with vegetation, fallen timber, and drop-offs where they can ambush prey. Spring right after ice-out and fall are peak times when they're in the shallows hunting. Pike are pure aggression - they'll slam lures hard and fight with surprising power. Their flaky white meat is tasty if you can deal with the Y-bones. Use a steel leader or heavy fluorocarbon because those razor teeth will cut regular line instantly. Pro tip: when you feel that initial strike, don't set the hook right away. Let them turn the bait and start moving off - pike often grab prey sideways first.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are the workhorses of New Hampshire fly fishing, running 10-16 inches on average with that classic pink stripe and spotted tail. They thrive in cooler streams and deeper lake water, preferring temps between 55-65°F. Spring and fall provide the hottest action, though summer mornings can be productive too. These fish are known for their aerial shows when hooked - they'll jump and run like nothing else. The pink flesh makes for excellent table fare as well. Look for them near gravel bars, inlet streams, and anywhere current brings food. They feed heavily on insects both above and below the surface. Local secret: during mayfly hatches in late spring, focus on the tail-outs of pools where rainbows sip emerging bugs.
Micropterus DolomieuSmallmouth bass in New Hampshire waters are serious fighters that'll give you a workout. These bronze-colored fish typically run 12-16 inches and love rocky areas, drop-offs, and boulder fields in our lakes and rivers. They're most active during spring and fall when water temps hit that sweet spot around 60-65°F. Summer fishing means going deeper where it's cooler. Early morning and evening are prime times. What makes smallmouth special is their fight - they'll jump, run, and battle right to the net. They're also great eating with firm, mild flesh. My go-to trick for New Hampshire smallmouth: cast a weightless plastic worm near fallen trees or rocky points, then let it sink slowly. They can't resist that wounded baitfish action.
Bethlehem, NH