Book Your Fishing Charter in Manchester, VT

Nestled between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Range, Manchester is one of two shire towns located in Bennington County in southwest Vermont. Anglers looking for a picturesque fly fishing area should look no further as fly fishing has been part of the town’s identity due to its history with the technique. The town also boasts several natural and recreational offerings to visitors with its quintessential New England feel and abundance of woods and mountains posing as the perfect peaceful sanctuary.

Due to its location and cool climate, Manchester’s waters are popular amongst trout anglers as the fish are stocked in some of its waters annually. Other freshwater species that thrive in cool waters are also easily found in local waters. As more and more people gain access to travel, the town has become a popular tourist destination, especially for those coming from New York and Connecticut. Outdoor activities such as hiking, river walks, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowboarding are very popular due to the abundance of natural sites that cater to them. Within the town, you can immerse yourself in Manchester’s history and culture as there are historic districts, old-era buildings, and a lively downtown scene.

Fishing: Fishing Among Scenic Mountains in Manchester, VT 

Tucked away in the Green Mountains in the scenic Battenkill River Valley, Manchester is a perfect place for anglers who want to unplug, restore and recharge. Fly fishers and those targeting trout will find the town an ideal spot. You can book a fly fishing lesson which is a popular local offering.

The historical angling spot of Battenkill River should be your first spot to visit as it’s abundant in brown trout and brook trout. Other species that can be caught in the river are rainbow trout, lake trout, landlocked salmon, American shad, largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, musky, rainbow smelt, yellow perch, and crappie. Apart from fly fishing, baitcasting using live bait is effective in the river as well. 

If you want a more remote area to fish that offers untainted wilderness, go to Bourn Pond where you can find fish like brook trout, bullhead, slimy sculpin, blacknose dace, and brown trout. Lightweight watercraft are best used there as you might not have a productive time fishing by its shores. You can employ your fly fishing, spinning, and baitcasting skills at the pond. Similar species can also be found in Lye Brook which is nearby the Lye Brook Falls Hiking Trail, a popular tourist attraction that leads to one of the highest waterfalls in the state. You can also go to the nearby Winhall River where you can target brook trout, white sucker, creek chub, Atlantic salmon, slimy sculpin, longnose dace, and blacknose dace.

If you head to the town’s east you’ll come upon Munson Brook which is home to species such as largemouth bass, bluegill, rainbow trout, pumpkinseed, and skamania trout. Bromley Brook, which is a tributary of the Battenkill, is also a fantastic place to fly fish for wild trout. Equinox Pond located in the town’s southwest also hosts various trout species where you can also find rock bass. Brook trout are also stocked at Bullhead Pond which is near the Manchester Country Club. Other fish species you'll find there are largemouth bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead.

Delve More into Manchester, VT’s Nature and History

1. Have Fun at the Mountains

Manchester is surrounded by mountains from the Green Mountains to the Taconic Range, with Equinox Mountain being its highest summit to the west of the town. It’s perfect for activities such as hiking and river walks and skiing, snowmobiling, and snowboarding. You can find numerous resorts and businesses that offer such activities. Visit during the winter so you can completely appreciate the beautiful setting the town has to offer.

2. Learn More About Fly Fishing

In Manchester, you’ll find Orvis, which specializes in high-end fly fishing, hunting, and sporting goods, situated in the historic district of Main Street. You can also visit the American Museum of Fly Fishing, located nearby. In the museum, you can find exhibits of artifacts related to American angling, including rods, flies, and images of presidents and industry pioneers that were also angling enthusiasts.