Alabama Fly Fishing Guides

According to fly fishing guides in Alabama, fly fishing is growing in popularity just about everywhere, even in the Deep South. And if you think trout are the only target for fly fishermen, think again. While Alabama does offer some coldwater trout fishing, the state's anglers also pursue other fish species with their fly rods - in both fresh and salt water. Some of the most popular targets for fly fishermen in the state are tarpon, seatrout, redfish, stripers, a variety of bass, and non-game species like gar and bowfin. Even deep-sea anglers are getting in on the fly action, with Alabama fly fishing charters.

Freshwater fly fishing in Alabama

Bass grow big and fat in the South, and the largemouth is the most popular target with Alabama fishermen. Largemouth bass can be found all over the state, in lakes, reservoirs, and small ponds. With certain feeding patters, bucketmouths will readily gobble a variety of flies, and when they do, the action is fast and furious.

Smallmouth bass can also be found in the state, mostly in the northern section of the state. One of the best places to catch big smallies while fly fishing in Alabama is on the Tennessee River, below the Joe Wheeler dam near Florence. Located in the northwest corner of the state, this spot has produced several world record smallies.

Rivers and streams in Alabama are also good places to find redeye bass, shoal bass, and spotted bass. All of these species will attack flies.

Trout can be found in the cold waters of some Alabama lakes, rivers, and streams. Some of the best places for fly fishing for trout in the state include the Little River Canyon National Preserve, the Sipsey Fork, Lake Weiss, and Juniper Spring. The state record rainbow trout was landed in Juniper Spring and weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces. To locate the most productive fishing spots for trout, hire an Alabama fly fishing guide.

Hefty bluegill and other types of bream can also be taken on flies, either from a boat or from shore. Look for places that have overhanging willows or other shrubs or small trees, as bluegill often gather in such spots.

Saltwater fly fishing in Alabama

Alabama anglers and guides love their saltwater fishing, and now many are enjoying the exciting action that fly fishing can provide. Many species move to shallower inshore and nearshore waters to feed, including redfish, spotted seatrout, and even tarpon. Few angling experiences equal watching a big silverside come up from the depths and attack a fly. Once the tarpon is hooked, it will do everything in its power to escape, resulting in some heart-pounding action on light tackle or a fly rod.

Some offshore fishermen in Alabama have also discovered the thrill of landing deep-water fish on flies. Dorado and billfish are often taken on flies that resemble their natural prey, like baitfish, crabs, and shrimp.

If you're interested in landing a bruiser on a fly rod, you'll find numerous fly fishing guides and flyfishing charters in Alabama who can help with your fly fishing quest.