As winters welcomes itself to the northern parts of the country, many of us pull off the water until springs rolls around. Well, If you’re looking to getaway for a few days and wet a line that’s not going to freeze to your guides (hopefully), there is no shortage of states to flee to with slightly warmer weather and incredible trout fishing. We collected a few of those states below so, take a read and plan a trip, you may just find your  new favorite trout waters!

Arkansas

Access TroutRoutes maps in Arkansas here (link to maps on “here”)

Representing an intersection between the Midwest, South, and West, Arkansas mimics some of the best parts about fishing in each. While we realize that Arkansas still receives their fair share of winter weather, it is generally much more mild and can still give you a break from frozen guides. 

With waterways such as the legendary White River being known for holding story-worthy brown trout to the Little Red River for brown, rainbows and even maybe a few bass the options for fishing are abundant. Don’t forget to get some tail-water time while you’re there as well on the North Fork of the White River below the Norfolk Dam, you won’t regret it. 

Fly Shop Recommendation: Dally’s Ozark Fly Fisher (1200 W Main St No.7, Cotter, AR 72626) – https://theozarkflyfisher.com/

California

TroutRoutes maps in California coming early 2023

When it comes to states with endless fishing opportunities, California finds itself close to the top of the list. While the northern part of the state holds the bulk, there are dozens of incredible fishing trips to be created within the boundaries of stunning scenery that The Golden State offers up. If you are looking for a trip of a lifetime and want to attempt to brave the snow, check out the rivers of the Eastern Sierra Nevadas.  For another trip with unforgettable views, find your way to Yosemite National Park where the fish may be smaller but the views will be those that pictures can’t even begin to do justice. 

Fly Shop Recommendation: The Fly Shop (4140 Churn Crk Rd, Redding, CA 96002) – https://www.theflyshop.com/

Arizona

Access TroutRoutes maps in Arizona here (link to maps on “here”)

This little gem is home to some surprisingly big brown trout, particularly in its upper reaches where holdover stockers have produced a viable wild trout fishery. Located near Sedona, most of Oak Creek flows through the Coconino National Forest, and while winter is a real season in this part of Arizona, it’s generally pretty mild when compared to winter elsewhere in the Rockies. Oak Creek is a productive stream, and dry-fly fishing is actually pretty good in the winter, with Blue-winged Olives hatching on warmer days, and midge action happening just about all winter long.

General Outfitter Recommendation (Where the heck are the fly shops Northern Arizona?!): Babbit’s Backcountry Outfitters (12 E Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001) – https://babbittsbackcountry.com/

While we know that you can find yourself on some incredible fishing in the dead of winter in many parts of the country, why not plan an escape from the cold temps that we’re already starting to feel up here in the north. 

Contributors: This article was written by Matthew Mendini in November of 2022. Matthew is the Content Marketing Specialist for TroutRoutes.