Dialing in your final list of schools to apply to? Currently trout-bumming your way through college? Recent grad or washed-up alumni? We’ve all got our opinions when it comes to talking college rankings, so we thought we’d complicate it even more by adding fly fishing to the mix. After considering the overall cultures both on and off the water, we think these 25 schools deserve a place in the trophy case – after all, what would college football season be without a little competition of our own?Â
1. University of Colorado – Boulder, Colorado
Fly fishing in Boulder, Colorado, offers a captivating blend of awe-inspiring natural scenery, a wealth of angling possibilities, easy accessibility, and a welcoming community of anglers united under the Trout Unlimited X Costa 5 Rivers Program. At CU Boulder, aspiring anglers can explore a wide spectrum of fishing experiences, from chasing warm-water species to pursuing cold-water trout in the pristine alpine lakes. Additionally, the opportunity to float fish some of Colorado’s renowned gold-medal trout waters is a remarkable aspect of the Boulder fly fishing scene. If you’re contemplating joining the University of Colorado, make sure to check out the incredible CU Fly Fishing Club at @cuflyfish. #PRIMEtime
2. Montana State University – Bozeman, Montana
It isn’t much of a surprise that MSU takes second place place as the best fly fishing school in the U.S. Enroll at MSU to fish the Gallatin, Beaverhead, Henry’s Fork, Jefferson, Yellowstone, Big Hole, and countless other beloved rivers and creeks. With world renowned water a stone’s throw from campus, and Bozeman’s intoxicating fly fishing culture, Montana State University’s number one power ranking is surely well deserved. Check out the MSU club @bozotroutbums.Â
3. University of Miami – Miami, Florida Â
For all the saltwater fanatics out there, going to school at the U means having some of the best flats fishing in the world right near campus. For less technical angling, fish a local canal or pond in or around Miami and find aggressive Peacock Bass and other warm-water species.
Or take the short trip down to the Everglades’ marshes to chase those snook, redfish, baby tarpon, and occasional bonefish. Once you’ve found your groove in the salt, the adventures of chasing legendary Florida Keys permit might just make you a permanent resident. This is all to say nothing of the nightlife and Floridian college culture – you’ve just gotta see it for yourself. Check out the club at @fishtheu.
4. University of Montana – Missoula, MT
While MSU claims the title, UM in Missoula might just be the people’s choice. Located in western Montana, Missoula plays host to waters teeming with native bull and westslope cutthroat trout eager to crush bushy dries and meaty streamers. Plus, UM students have the climate advantage – fishing starts to heat up a lot quicker on this side of the state thanks to the Bitterroot Valley’s more temperate climate compared to that of Bozeman’s. #OhI’llNeverLeaveMontanaBrother.
5. Penn State University – State College, Pennsylvania
Happy Valley really does have it all. From a rich football tradition to one of the nation’s most robust wild brown trout populations in the nearby Spring Creek, Nittany Lions enjoy the very best of the all around college experience. Penn State also offers a number of fly fishing classes… hell, they might be the only classes you actually attend when the famed slate drakes and BWOs start hatching.Â
6. University of Texas – Austin, Texas
For all you fine folks in the heart of Texas, fly fishing in the Austin area offers some remarkable opportunities. The abundant freshwater fisheries in this region provide ample chances to reel in various warm-water species, including bass, sunfish, carp, and more. Notable rivers in close proximity to Austin include the Guadalupe, San Marcos, and Llano River.
7. Oregon State University – Corvallis, OregonÂ
If you’re interested in pursuing fly fishing while attending Oregon State University (OSU) in Corvallis, Oregon, you’re in luck. The region offers a fantastic environment for young fly fishing enthusiasts, with numerous opportunities to hone your skills and enjoy the sport.
Fly fishing in Corvallis, Oregon, provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy this outdoor activity in a stunning natural setting. The region boasts numerous rivers and streams, including the Willamette River, Santiam River, and McKenzie River, teeming with trout and other species. If you love Oregon, and want a great place to catch an abundance of fish, be sure to keep Oregon State University on your mind.
8. University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia
Fly fishing in Athens, Georgia, presents an enticing blend of angling diversity and natural beauty. The area boasts a variety of waterways, allowing fly anglers to pursue numerous fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish. The nearby North Georgia Mountains provide opportunities for cold water trout fishing, particularly along the Chattahoochee River.
Athens is also home to the University of Georgia, where the Trout Unlimited 5 Rivers Program thrives. This program offers students a chance to engage in fly fishing-related activities, learn from seasoned anglers, and participate in organized outings. It’s a valuable resource for those looking to immerse themselves in the world of fly fishing while pursuing their education.
9. University of Alaska Anchorage – Anchorage, AK
The University of Alaska has to make the list out of mere principle. Alaska is a top destination in the world of fly fishing for good reason, so why not go to school there? The Anchorage campus is a short drive away from the legendary Kenai and Russian rivers, plus countless walk and wade streams, wild creeks, and the beloved Alaska Parks Highway river systems – all of which are teeming with monster ‘bows and magazine worthy salmon. Prior to matriculation, be sure to break out the vise to whip up some egg and flesh flies – chances are your box will need a refresh before heading up north. Not to mention Chester Creek flows right through the campus!
10. Sewanee: The University of the South – Sewanee, TN
While we may have a soft spot for this location, Sewanee is where the Flylords journey began. Our founder, Jared Zissu, spent his time at the University of the South in Sewanee, where the fishing adventures were countless. Sewanee, with its moonlit river outings and sun-soaked bass fishing adventures, served as the birthplace of Zissu’s inspiration to create Flylords right from the confines of his dorm room. The University of the South boasts fantastic fly fishing opportunities, with access to the Tennessee River, the tranquil Onteagle and Sewanee Creeks, and the alluring Nickajack Lake. Be sure to explore Sewanee’s vibrant fly fishing community by checking out the Sewanee Fly Fishing Club at @sewaneeflyfishingclub.
11. Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, MI
Central Michigan University provides a unique and accessible platform for young college anglers through its proximity to the Chippewa River. This river, meandering near the campus, offers opportunities to target species like smallmouth bass, northern pike, carp, and panfish. The university supports this passion through its active Fly Fishing Club, which welcomes both students and community members. Additionally, fly tying and casting workshops may be available, enhancing skills and knowledge. Local fly shops and adherence to Michigan’s fishing regulations ensure a well-rounded fly fishing experience in the Mount Pleasant area, making it an appealing choice for those looking to combine academics with their love for fly fishing.
12. Tulane University – New Orleans, Louisiana
Fly fishing in New Orleans offers a unique and captivating experience for young college anglers. While the city is better known for its jazz, cuisine, and vibrant culture, its surrounding waters present a hidden gem for fly fishing enthusiasts. The marshes, bayous, and estuaries of the Louisiana coast provide a diverse ecosystem that’s home to a wide variety of fish species, including redfish, speckled trout, and more.
The combination of brackish and saltwater environments creates exciting opportunities for fly anglers to target these prized game fish. Moreover, the lush and picturesque scenery of the Louisiana wetlands adds an extra layer of charm to the fly fishing experience.
13. Colorado State University – Ft. Collins, COÂ
Of course, a Colorado school has to make the list, and while there are many worthy contenders, CSU shines through for a few reasons. Fort Collins, just south of the Wyoming line, means central access to everything from the North Platte and Arkansas to the Cache la Poudre and Rocky Mountain National Park. The sheer diversity of water could keep a CSU Ram from fishing the same stretch twice during their college career, and the same could be said for drinking the same beer twice with all of Fort Collins’ breweries.
14. University of Washington – Seattle, WAÂ
An excellent school, in a major city, with phenomenal fishing – what’s not to love? No matter if you love chasing steelhead on the swing or throwing terrestrials to hungry cutthroats, Washington water can scratch your fish itch during every month of the year. Some of the most popular destinations near the city include the Cle Elum, Yakima, and Skagit rivers, the Puget Sound, and miles of high mountain streams chock full of natives. In addition to world-class angling, foodies and urbanities will thrive in this bustling metropolis.
15. Boise State – Boise, Idaho
It’s hard to beat Boise State when it comes to fishing and football. Home to the venerable Broncos football program and the Boise River, Idaho’s state capital should make the shortlist for anyone who wants high-quality water only a short walk away. After all, who doesn’t? The river flows through the heart of town and supports an impressive population of wild browns and native redband rainbows, plus the annual steelhead run. Boise is a place where college gameday can conclude with netting a pig, and that’s a beautiful thing.Â
While these are our picks for the country’s top college towns for wetting a line, the below schools all have a place in our Top 25 Bracket. The truth is that there are so many amazing schools close to killer water – just try not to fail out. Or do… fishing is more fun than studying after all.Â
16. Brigham Young University – Rexburg, Idaho
17. Arkansas State University, Mountain Home – Mountain Home, Arkansas
18. College of Charleston – Charleston, South Carolina
19. Western Colorado University – Gunnison, Colorado
20. University of Wyoming – Laramie, Wyoming
21. University of Vermont – Burlington, Vermont
22. San Diego State University – San Diego, California
23. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
24. University of Massachusetts Amherst – Amherst, Massachusetts
25. University of Oregon – Eugene, Oregon
26. Bonus: University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Tennessee
27. Bonus: Bates College – Lewiston, Maine
Which schools did we miss? Feel free to comment below!
Article by Team Flylords, based in Basalt, Colorado.
University of Vermont! Burlington, VT. We have wild brookies in the mountains, lake trout and lake salmon. And tons of rivers with browns and rainbows. Im shocked we didn’t make this list.
University of Virginia
Western Colorado should be in the top 10 at least!
Shhhh…. see if you can delete this.
You guys either are keeping it a secret or completely missed the boat. How can you not include Fort Lewis College in Durango? Out fishes every othe Colorado school listed
Great area but I’d take my Alma mater Colorado State over Durango. But Durango is tops for scenery and proximity to Mess Verde for non fishing day
My younger son went to Fort Lewis. My older son went to U of MT.
You put the University Of Georgia but you have to go to the University of North Georgia to get to any good fly fishing water
University of Wyoming. No school in Michigan???
ETSU – Johnson City, TN. The Watauga River is a classic southeastern trout fishery!
And the south Holston and not to mention all the creeks with native brooks!
Somewhere in the Driftless…maybe Luther College in Decorah IA or a UWisconsin school
University of Idaho but no mention of Washington State University. Come on. 8 miles apart. Most WSU fishermen fish Idaho, as well as northern Washington
They actually missed U of Idaho, Moscow as well as WSU, Pullman. Instead going for stuff around Boise.
Lees-McRae in Banner Elk, NC has a trout stream on campus.
Calif State University Chico, 3-4 hour drive to all the blue ribbon trout streams of Northern California 🤷
University of Wisconsin La Crosse and most the other campuses. On Mississippi and Black River plus hundreds of trout streams within 50 miles.
Bloomsburg university of PA. An hour from Penns and tons of other solid spots near there.
San Diego State?? Interested in your justification.
University of VT Burlington VT
Rolla, Missouri. Great trout and smallmouth fishing nearby. Don’t tell anyone.
One of my favorites is close by…shh
How can you not include UW-Lacrosse, so close to so many amazing driftless creeks
Western Carolina University? It has a trout stream through campus with a dorm on it. 4600 miles of trout streams within 30 miles- that’s a fact!
Used to do some work out there. Anglers in the stream all days of the week in the right season. All kinds of water meandering through the Nantahala National Forest.
Fort Lewis College in Durango, Co. come on now
Absolutely
Ferris State Unversity Big Ripids MI. Many great waters within a 1 hour.
CSU also has one of the top fisheries biology programs and one of the top river engineering programs in the country. You know, on the off chance you wanted to go to classes.
University Of South Alabama, all of coastal Alabama parts of western Florida, coastal Mississippi and Louisiana all just down the street. Reds, jacks, speckled trout, flounder and even off shore fish like bonita.
Appalachian State University… in the Appalachian mountains. Come on man
App State for sure!
For sure, the NC high country has a massive amount of fish able water and the Watauga and South Holstein right over the mountain.
SUNY Oswego in Oswego, NY – the fall salmon run up the river from Lake Ontario is legendary
Skidmore College for sure! The Ausable, the Saranac, the Delaware, and the Salmon River! Can’t forget about Lake Trout in a bunch of the local lakes too.
University Of Nevada, Reno. You have the truckee river walking distance from campus, truckee is 30 minutes away with tons of other rivers. Then the famous Pyramid Lake right next door as well.
Surprised Paul Smiths College in the Adirondacks didn’t make the list.
Western Carolina and App State
Use to work at Binghamton University. Professor friends and I fished the Delaware river all of the time. Caught lots of fat trout there. The fly fishing museum is only an hour or two from there as well.
How does UNC Chapel Hill make it in over UNC Asheville? PR contest?
Fort Lewis College in Durango Colorado.
Utah State! We’ve got 3 blue ribbon fisheries within 20 minutes. Native bear river cutties and big ole browns that don’t get taken care of. If you’re willing to fight off the rattlesnakes and hawethorne there’s plenty of native beauty’s waiting
Drop those UNC kids and put NC State University on the list – NCSU has lots of access around it and actually a fisheries program!!!
Brevard College, UNC Asheville, Western Carolina, Clemson, Warren Wilson.
Fort Lewis College in Durango! Gold medal water on the Animas just minutes from campus. Countless option nearby including San Juan River, Rio Grande river, countless creeks and alpine lakes.
I don’t know or understand how you all left University WI, Madison off this list. TONS of fly fishing — from Black Earth creek 30 mins north to the driftless area starting 20-25 minutes south and west, there is AMAZING fly fishing around Dane Co and points west.
The WI River is world-renowned for a smallmouth crash / blitz in the spring / fall.
Lake Wingra has a MASSIVE population of Muskie, and Lake Mendota has a 40†limit on pike. It’s a frickin trophy factory, and they are all fly-fishable.
Best College in Maine is Colby College. The Kennebec River runs through the city of Waterville. South of Waterville it fishes well for smallmouth. North it fishes for Landlocks and Brookies. When it reaches the ocean it’s great for Stripers and Blues
How do you put UNC Chapel Hill instead of Appalachian State in North Carolina? This makes zero sense.
You missed a good one .Gonzaga university in Spokane Washington nearby to several excellent rivers and streams. All within a 90 minute drive .Excellent academics and basketball team
Yeah, you missed Carroll College in Helena, Montana. Closer to the Mighty Mo and its 3 BIG lakes than Bozeman or Missoula.
Great comments from everyone. So glad I found this site. I have spent a great amount of time at Sewanee and I too think it is awesome. YSR!
Utah State University – Logan, Utah
University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. Close to San Juan, Jemez, Santo de Cristo, Rio Grande gorge, etc, etc
Michigan Tech University in Houghton in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Spent five years there on the trout streams with some fantastic fishing and beautiful country.
or
Appalachian State University where I taught my son and lifelong fishing partner to fly fish.
Many years ago I got PE credit for a class in fly casting/fishing at Michigan Tech University. The class probably doesn’t exist anymore, but it was a fun conversation piece when interviewers noticed it.
Montana Tech. Butte, Montana. Should be top five for sure.
Amazing that the University of TN is not top 10 here…
With Access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in TN and NC.
Tailwaters galore outside the park in East TN and Western NC.
Colorado State University Pueblo, the Arkansas river tailwater is 15 minutes from campus. Gold medal water for browns and rainbow trout and not to mention Pueblo reservoir for good small mouth bass and other warm water species.
BYU – Provo river, Strawberry Reservoir, Green river, Weber river…the list goes on. Not to mention Fly fish food, only the largest fly fishing/tying shop.
Fresno State! Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are all within an hour away and there are literally thousands of streams and alpine lakes in those parks and the nearby Sierra National Forest, John Muir Wilderness, Amstel Adams Wilderness and Golden Trout Wilderness. The Blue Ribbon Kings River is a 20 minute drive from campus!
You forgot University of Wisconsin-Madison. Great College town with the Gateway to the Driftless Area trout streams of southwest Wisconsin starting within a 25 minute drive of campus(Black Earth Creek). Not to mention the warm water fisheries of Lakes Mendota, Monona, and Wingra a stone’s throw from campus. There’s even a chance to catch a Muskie a bike ride from the dorms.