With the arrival of warmer spring days, the snowmelt in the Green Mountains of central Vermont begins rushing into our countless rivers and streams, ushering in one of the best times of year to cast a line and reel in stunning fish like rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass.
Brown trout, a non-native species like the rainbow trout, both introduced to Vermont just over a century ago, is another commonly caught fish in the waters around Waterbury. Brown trout can tolerate higher river and stream temperatures than rainbows, making them more catchable in shallower, warmer water areas and later into summer. Look for brook trout easy to identify with their subtle and beautiful red spotting in chillier water, more common as you climb higher in elevation, and along specific, smaller tributaries like Stevenson Brook.
For excellent fishing on the Winooski River, choose a spot along River Road, which runs parallel to the river along the south side through town and then on the north side after you cross the Route 2 bridge. Another world-class freshwater fishing spot is just three miles north of our location , along the pristine shores of the expansive acre Waterbury Reservoir. These bass often congregate near rock pilings and sharp drop-offs, making it accessible and convenient to try your luck from the shore.
Break up your fun-filled fishing day at the reservoir with a panini and hard cider just a half-mile up Route at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, one of our favorite local cideries they have six hard ciders on tap, plus non-alcoholic versions, so their menu has refreshing options for everyone. Experienced anglers and newcomers alike, start your fishing adventure at the Fly Rod Shop , just 10 minutes north of downtown Waterbury along Route on the way north to Stowe.
Their assortment of rods, reels, lines, and flies will have you catching fresh trout and bass in no time, and their knowledgeable staff can give you up-to-date tips about changing river conditions and where the fish are biting best on any given day. A state-issued license is required to fish anywhere in Vermont, so purchase it online before your trip or buy one in person at the Fly Rod Shop.
