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Home waters are great but don’t we all dream of a few fly fishing trips to tick off our bucket list?
The winter months are a great time to think about places to visit. That’s why we’ve compiled this ultimate 2025 fly fishing destinations guide for your inspiration. Enjoy!
Heidarvatn, Iceland
Iceland is high up on the list of many trout and Atlantic salmon fishermen – rightly so. There are very few places in the world where you have a realistic chance to catch a 40″ trout – Iceland surely is one of them. Great thing is, you can catch arctic char on top. And let’s not forget the elusive Atlantic salmon. Especially considering the negative developments in Norway recently, Iceland will be even more popular in 2025. And here’s the best thing: we’ve gotten involved in managing the incredible property of Heidarvatn on the Southern tip of Iceland. You can catch Atlantic salmon, sea trout, brown trout and char in your private river and lake. Reach out to us at leo@heidarvatn.fish to learn more.
Camp Onka, Sweden
Atlantic salmon are a much sought-after species for any fly fisherman. A great place to catch them is Sweden. These Atlantics that are often also referred to as Baltic salmon grow big and strong in the rivers of the Scandinavian north. A great location to catch one of them is the Lainio river and Camp Onka to be precise. You can enjoy a private stretch of water six miles long. Plenty of holding pools might have the catch of a lifetime in store for you.
Marble Trout, Trentino, Italy
It’s no secret anymore that some of Europe’s biggest trout, the so-called marble trout, call some of the continent’s most beautiful waters home. Most fly fishermen will probably think of Slovenia first but Northern Italy, namely the region of Trentino has some great marble fishing as well. Best thing about this location is the fact that not only can you catch browns and grayling as well but it’s going to be hard to beat in terms of quality of life. Need I to mention Italian food and landscapes… Your go-to-guy in this area is Stefano Fedrizzi.
Sea Bass, Algarve Portugal
If you’ve already been to Portugal, you know what a beautiful country it is. If you haven’t, I highly recommend you go. From the East coast of the US it’s not a long trip and besides the amazing food and beaches, it’s worth bringing your fly rod. The Southern part of Portugal, known as the Algarve, has secretly turned into a great place to try your hand at saltwater fishing. Striped bass fishing is popular all along the US East coast and their European relative, sea bass, can be found along the coasts of Portugal but far fewer people fish for them. If you want to give it a shot, reach out to Miguel de Sao Vicente.
Bone Fish – Hawaii, USA
When you think of Hawaii, most people would probably mention surfing as the number one sport. What fewer people and especially fishermen know is the fact that Hawaii is a great saltwater destination for fly anglers. Indeed it is home to some of the biggest bonefish in the world. If you know how strong and fast even a smaller bonefish is, think of these giants on the other end of your rod. If you want to have the best experience, reach out to Captain Rick.
Northern India – Golden Mahseer
The Himalayan foothills of Northern India host the legendary golden mahseer. Known as the “tiger of the river,” this powerful fish offers a supreme test of angling skills. Fishing here means casting in gin-clear waters against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. If you’ve done Arapaima or Peacock Bass and liked it, Golden Mahseer is for you. Learn all about this fish at our friends from Yellow Dog Fly Fishing.
Tigerfish in Zambia
The Zambezi River in Zambia offers thrilling fly fishing for tigerfish, known for their ferocious strikes and acrobatic fights. Anglers can cast from boats or islands, targeting these predators against a backdrop of African wildlife. The experience is heightened by the chance to combine fishing with safari activities. If you want to learn more about this feisty freshwater predator, make sure to check out African waters.
Costa Rica – Roosterfish
Cast from the beaches of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast for hard-fighting roosterfish. The tropical setting and variety of fishing options make this an exciting destination. Roosterfish are extremely fast predators that will take your fly without hesitation. Reach out to the guys at 506 Outdoors if you want to give it a shot.
Trout in the Pyrenees, Spain
Here’s another under the radar location if you’re a trout bum: Spain. The Pyrenees are a stunning mountain range spanning across the Iberian peninsula, separating Spain from France. Cold mountain streams offer perfect habitat for different salmonids. The landscapes are breathtaking and the food is second to none. Get in touch with Spain Fly Fishing Guides to put together a custom made trip you won’t forget.
Black Bass, Papua New Guinea
As our last recommendation for your next fly fishing trip we want to bring you something really exotic: Black Bass on the fly in Papua New Guinea. Bass are a hugely popular sport fish but Black Bass add another layer of excitement for any fly fisherman. These fish are strong fighters and feisty predators. A lot of the waters in Papua New Guinea have seen very little fishing pressure and there are millions of acres to explore. Your go-to address are the guys from Rock Expeditions.
