Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Battenkill River - Below the Mill at Battenville - New York

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon #20-24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
February Midges, Stoneflies Afternoon #20-24, #6-10 Zebra Midge, Black Stonefly
March Black Stoneflies Warmer parts of the day #6-10 Black Stonefly Nymph, Carlson's Black Stone
Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Afternoon #16-20 BWO Parachute, BWO Emerger
April BWO, Hendricksons Afternoon #14-16 Comparadun BWO, Red Quill
Little Black Caddis Evening #18-20 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Grannom Caddis All Day #12-16 Grannom Pupa, Grannom Dry Fly
May Brown Drake, March Brown Morning and Evening #10-12 March Brown Dun, Brown Drake Parachute
Green Drake Evening #8-10 Green Drake Dun, Green Drake Emerger
June Slate Drake, Sulphurs Morning and Evening #12-14, #16-18 Slate Drake Dun, Sulphur Dun
July Terrestrials, Tricos Morning and Afternoon #20-24, #14-18 Ant Patterns, Trico Spinner
August Terrestrials, Tricos Morning and Afternoon #20-24, #14-18 Hopper Patterns, Trico Spinner
September Terrestrials, Tricos Morning and Afternoon #20-24, #14-18 Spider Patterns, Trico Spinner
October Caddis Evening #10-12 October Caddis Adult, October Caddis Pupa
October Blue Winged Olive (BWO) Afternoon #18-22 BWO Parachute, BWO Emerger
November Midges Afternoon #20-24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
December Midges Afternoon #20-24 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

For an unparalleled fly fishing experience, the Battenkill River in Battenville stands out with several spots known for their abundant fish activity:

  • The section below the Mill is a favorite amongst local anglers. Fishers can expect to catch wild and stocked Brook Trout in this spot.
  • Just upwards of the covered bridge in Eagleville, where sandbars and gravel channels attract large quantities of populous Brown Trout.
  • Along the Jackson’s hole stretch, anglers frequently report numbers of notable size Rainbow Trout.

This river is known for its cool waters all-year-round, making it an ideal spot for fly fishers. For the best chances—early morning or late evenings are the most productive, during the warmer months. However, be sure to remember necessary permits and regulatory measures in order to protect the sustainability of this fishing paradise.

Best Access Points

Best access points to fly fish on the Battenkill River, below the mill at Battenville offer a rich source of adventure. Some of the most attractive points are:

  • State Route 61 Bridge: This provides convenient access downstream of the bridge.
  • Rupert Vermont: There are public access points all along the Battenkill in Rupert. These can be found marked with Green Mountain National Forest signs.
  • The Covered Bridge in West Arlington: Ideally suited for high gradient stream enthusiasts, the West Arlington Bridge provides excellent access.
  • State Route 313: North of Arlington, State Route 313 offers access to a stretch of the river where Brown trout populations are quite high.

Remember that different sections of the Battenkill hold varying species. Try these access points for a rewarding fly fishing experience.

Local Fish

  1. Brown Trout: Known for their natural reproduction capabilities and feisty nature, making them a preferred choice for many anglers.
  2. Brook Trout: Abundant in the Battenkill, these fish are known for their beautiful coloration and are a main draw for fly fishers.
  3. Rainbow Trout: Introduced into the Battenkill and quickly became a favourite among many for its distinctive fighting style.
  4. Smallmouth Bass: Preferring rocky bottoms and cooler water temperatures, provides a great challenge for fly fishing.
  5. Largemouth Bass: The Battenkill has plenty to offer when it comes to this notorious fighter, making it an exciting species to target.
  6. Walleye: Known as the ‘fish of 10,000 casts’, targeting them can be tough, but their size and fight make it worth the effort.
  7. Yellow Perch: Common in the Battenkill. Their size and aggressive nature make them a fun, easily accessible target for fly fishers.
  8. Northern Pike: Known for their speed and aggression, pulling a Pike out of the Battenkill is an achievement any fly fisher can be proud of.

About The River

The Battenkill River is a stunning natural gem rich in history, renowned primarily for its outstanding trout fishing. Originating in East Dorset, Vermont, it snakes through the verdant American countryside before converging into the Hudson River in Easton, New York.

In the quiet hamlet of Battenville, an old mill stands as a nostalgic reminder of the river’s past. This mill not only served as the heart of the small community, but it witnessed the young life of Susan B. Anthony, the celebrated women’s rights activist. This area is steeped in a history that mirrors the changing times of America itself.

  • The mill once served as a power source, harnessing the mighty river to grind grain for the burgeoning community.
  • It was here, in this idyllic setting, that a strong, resilient woman nurtured her revolutionary ideas that would reshape the nation’s future.

Against the backdrop of the scenic Battenkill River, the mill at Battenville still resonates with echoes of the bygone era.

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