fly fishing trips new england

Guide Services

Welcome to some of new england’s best fishing.

The Upper Connecticut Region of New Hampshire is considered one of the prime fly-fishing grounds of the Eastern United States. The headwaters of the mighty Connecticut River rise near the Canadian border. As the river begins its 440-mile route to the sea, it is collected in a series of impoundment lakes. The tail-water dams release the icy cold water into fast-running streams. They are the perfect environment for Brook, Brown, Lake, & Rainbow Trout, as well as Landlocked Salmon to make their way into the river during spring to chase smelt and return in the fall to spawn on their annual spring and fall spawning run.

Sections of the Connecticut River below 1st Connecticut Lake and 2nd Connecticut Lake are reserved for fly fishing anglers only. There are shallow, rocky rapids, quiet backwater pools, and fast-running deep channels. On both banks the native vegetation gives rise to the amazing variety of insect life that provides the main source of food for the voracious fish: Caddisflies, Mayflies, and the Duns. This results in a fly-fishing paradise that results in some of the best fly fishing in New England.

All around us in this pristine section of New Hampshire are lakes and ponds, most open to fishing of all kinds. Starting as a trickle near the Canadian border in Pittsburg, NH, the river forms a chain of the deep, cold-water Connecticut Lakes before flowing some 440 miles south to Long Island Sound. The river has two fly-fishing only sections equating to approximately 6 miles of river. Two tail-water dams provide cold, clean water for miles downstream making the summer fishing on the Connecticut River some of the best in the state. One of which is the “Trophy Stretch” of the Connecticut River begins a mile south of Lopstick. This is a tail-water release, fly fishing only stretch which is famous to anglers from all over. The river from Lake Francis is also tail-water release south through town is open to general regulations. This section will maintain cold temp for approximately 30 miles downstream.

Deposit Policy: full payment for the entire trip, including multiple days, up front of guide service is required at the time of the reservation. Contact information is 603.538.6010, [email protected] & visit their website at www.lopstickoutfitters.com

Guide Service Type 1 Person 2 People

Full-Day Wade $350 $400

Half-Day Wade $200 $250

Full-Day Drift $450 $450 (Connecticut & Androscoggin)

Half-Day Drift $350 $350 (Connecticut River Only)

Pike Trips $450 $450

Casting Lesson $45 an hour for 1 or 2 people.

View Lopstick Trophy Stretch Map

Best Upland Bird Hunting in New England

Fall comes early in the Great North Woods, and that’s great news for our guests who like to don their orange vests and hats and head out into the woods in search of game. Our rugged, mountainous terrain provides an ideal habitat for bird species like grouse, woodcock, and pheasant. There are more than 200,000 acres here in Pittsburg which includes dense spruce forests that give way to areas of clearcut woods. With ample mountain streams, high mountain bogs, and the fertile river valleys are all accessible thanks to numerous logging roads. The State of New Hampshire generously allows recreational use of the land.

Hunters Welcome

At Lopstick, we welcome our hunting guests, many of whom return year after year. Lopstick Outfitters offers experienced hunting guides with their trained bird dogs. They know the best fields and roads where the birds can be flushed out for excellent action. With our unbeatable terrain, comfortable accommodations, the Lopstick Hunting Experience is hard to beat anywhere in New England. Call us today at 603-538-6010 and begin planning your next hunting adventure in the Great North Woods.

Deposit Policy:full payment for the entire trip, including multiple days, up front of guide service is required at the time of the reservation.

Here are the rates & contact information is 603.538.6010 or [email protected]

Guide Service for 1 Person 2 Person Full-Day Hunt $400 $450

What you will need:

Shotgun, any gauge you are comfortable with
Shots Sizes 8 or 7.5
Choke tubes Skeet or IC
Rubber Boots are a must
Orange Hat and Vest
Clothing for weather ranges of snow at 20 degrees to sun at 70 degrees
Always let your guide know of any medical conditions

Visit Our New Lopstick Outfitters Website

Meet Our Guides

Head Fishing Guide William Bernhardt Head Fly Fishing Guide

Fishing Guide Chuck DeGray Fly Fishing Guide

Fishing Guide Paul Starring Fly Fishing Guide

Head Upland Bird Hunting Guide Dave Trahan Upland Bird Hunting Guide

Upland Bird Hunting Guide Sean Searles Upland Bird Hunting Guide

All of lodging needs to be reserved by calling Lopstick (Main Lodge) at 603.538.6659 45 Stewart Young Road – 8am-5pm

All of our Recreational rentals need to be reserved by calling Recreation at Lopstick at 603.538.6473 6 Fern Drive on the corner of Route 3 – 8am-5pm

Guide Services need to be reserved by calling Lopstick Outfitters & Fly Shop at 603.538.6010 – 10 Metallak Drive – 7am-5pm

Check-in time is 3:00 pm and check out time is 10:30 am. Please let us know if you will be alate arrival. Cancellation Policy: Deposits will be refunded if 7 days notice is given. If less than 7 days notice is given, the deposit will be refunded only if the dates reserved are rented to others.

We hope to host you soon!

TideLines Fishing

EveryBody Can Fish

Guided salt water fly fishing trips in new england.

Owen has been fishing in New England his entire life. Whether it's on a river close to home, on a pond, lake, or the ocean. He picked up a fly rod freshman year of high school. Putting his conventional gear aside, Owen went all in on the art of fly fishing. Since then, he has dedicated many summers chasing stripers of inshore New England. Out of this came the launch of TideLines Fishing; "To share both my love for fishing and the species with others".

The Services

Half-day or full-day guided Saltwater Fly Fishing trips.

What We Go For

The common catch and targeted species for the majority of the summer is the striped bass. Stripers migrate North in the spring and early summer before turning around to head South in the fall. This unique species can be found inshore or offshore whether that’s in deeper channels, in open water chasing bait, or cruising a flat in search of food.

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Kismet outfitters, guided trips, fly shop, travel & casting clinics.

Kismet Outfitters offers guided fly fishing trips, schools, hosted travel, corporate events, and casting clinics for both beginner and seasoned anglers alike. Our goal is to make each trip unforgettable. We achieve this by not only guiding but also teaching. We can guarantee you will leave the day with a better and broader understanding of this beautiful sport. We specialize in salt water for striped bass, false albacore, bluefish, and bonito. We also guide freshwater creeks and streams for trout and salmon. We guide in Martha’s Vineyard & Maine and various locations in New England. Every time you fish with us it will be more than just a guided trip, it will be a lifetime experience.

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Guided trips.

Available from Late April - Early November.

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NEW PRODUCTS

Guided trips, kismet outfitters offers full & half day trips.

Our true passion is taking anglers out on the water to give them a lifelong memory and experience. We run both shore and boat trips all over the island. All of our trips include equipment, transportation, beverages, and lunch on full-day trips.

Martha's Vineyard

April - november.

Martha's Vineyard are our home waters. All of our guides grew up fishing these waters and know them inside and out. We fish the whole island from flats to rips from boat or shore. We love our home waters and can't wait to share them with you.

Hosted Travel

November - may.

We work with lodges all across the globe. We host numerous trips every winter from Patagonia to Montana. We also are a booking agency for many lodges. Let us do the work so you can just show up and have an unforgettable experience.

Plan Your Next Trip

Yoga and fly fishing go hand in hand and are equally meditative. This is one of the many reasons why Kismet Outfitters is one of a kind. We offer yoga and fly fishing trips around the world, US and full day retreats. We also can add yoga to your day as part of your fishing trip.

ADD YOGA TO YOUR TRIP

Capt. abbie schuster, owner, guide, yoga instructor.

Fly fishing is something I have done my entire life that is why the word Kismet spoke to me when naming this business. Owning and running an outfitter is my destiny. My passion and where my knowledge lies is fly fishing. I have always been in the fly fishing industry. I was born and raised in New England and grew up fishing these waters, which provided me the opportunity to gain knowledge and passion for this sport.

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Casting Lessons

Everyone can benefit from a casting lesson, no matter if you have been fishing you whole life or just started. Casting lessons are a great way to learn the basics of the fly cast, brush off the cobwebs or get rid of bad habits. With a better cast you can spend more time catching fish.

We offer one or two hour private lessons and also group lessons. All equipment is included.

2 HOUR: $110 1 HOUR: $60

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What Are the Best Fly-Fishing Rivers in New England?

I started taking fly-fishing lessons earlier this year, and I’m already starting to get the bug—so to speak—for the sport. What are your favorite fly-fishing rivers in the Northeast?

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

The Northeast’s rivers are often overshadowed by those in the mid-Atlantic and Southeast. But don’t rent a U-Haul just yet: New England’s rivers are full of trout, and under-the-radar enough that you’ll more than likely have them to yourself. Start with these three:

Penobscot River, Maine
Androscoggin River, New Hampshire
Deerfield River, Massachusetts

The Best Fly-Fishing Rivers: Penobscot River, Maine

Originating near the Canadian border, the west branch of the Penobscot River is probably best known for the most rollicking whitewater in the Northeast. But make the long trip to Maine’s northern hinterlands with Maine Fishing Adventures and venture to the pools between the Class IV and V rapids to be rewarded with rich pockets of brooks and prehistoric-sized wild land-locked salmon.

The Best Fly-Fishing Rivers: Androscoggin River, New Hampshire

The Androscoggin, which flows through the White Mountains of New Hampshire before cutting across Maine, used to be the lifeblood of the paper industry in northern New England. It was also one of the most polluted before clean water laws resuscitated it. The foam-filled upper stretch before Berlin has always remained a clean and fertile home for trout, bass, and even some land-locked salmon. Hire a guide from New Hampshire Rivers to show you the way.

The Best Fly-Fishing Rivers: Deerfield River, Massachusetts

Bostonians are quick to head north for outdoor adventure, so they often overlook the easily accessible Berkshire Mountains in the western half of their own state. In turn, the well-known but barely used Deerfield River in northwestern Massachusetts is a quiet treasure for anglers and whitewater kayakers. It’s well stocked all the way from the Vermont border until it meets the Connecticut River in Greenfield, though the best fishing is found furthest upstream. Harrison Anglers is your best bet for guiding.

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Going Wild on New England's Finest Trout Stream

New minimum flows on massachusetts's deerfield river should boost its population of wild brown trout..

Floating with a raft or drift boat is the best way to fish the Deerfield River during high flows, but roads parallel the river through most of its course, and there is plenty of walk-and-wade access for fly fishers on foot. (Adam Eldridge photo)

EDITOR’S NOTE: In the time since this article appeared in the August-September 2022 issue of Fly Fisherman , the 401 Water Quality and Settlement agreement has been recommended for approval by the judge handling the administrative appeal. It now it goes before a commissioner for final approval. The future looks promising for the Deerfield.

The Deerfield River begins its 73-mile journey toward the Connecticut River in the Green Mountain National Forest in Southern Vermont. Clean and pure headwater streams fill Somerset and Harriman reservoirs, adding much-needed nutrients to the waters of the Deerfield. Below these impoundments are a chain of smaller impoundments, diversions, and a huge, 600-megawatt pump storage facility—all producing hydropower for the New England power grid. While the fishing is decent on the Vermont side of the border, the most consistent year-round fishing lies below the Fife Brook dam in Florida, Massachusetts.

Wild brown trout that can reach the two-foot mark are the big attraction on the Deerfield. However, rainbow trout are more common, as the state stocks several thousand 15- to 17-inch rainbows in both the spring and fall. There are some wild ’bows on the Deerfield, but they are mostly a mystery—when you hook one you’ll think you’ve hooked a small steelhead.

The future of these wild browns and rainbows—and for river ecology in general—is looking brighter, thanks to the efforts of Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Fish & Wildlife, USGS, and the Deerfield River Watershed Chapter of Trout Unlimited in the recent FERC relicensing of the Fife Brook/Bear Swamp facility. Their fight for increased winter minimum flows to protect wild trout spawning areas resulted in an agreement with Brookfield Energy that is now subject to the approval of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). If this agreement is approved, Fife Brook Dam will release a minimum winter flow of 225 cubic feet per second (cfs)—protecting wild trout spawning areas and adding year-round aquatic habitat. The Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game has intimated that this new minimum winter flow could be a game changer for wild trout. With these new flows, the Fife Brook section will perhaps one day be completely wild, and managed as a Wild Trout Management Area.

Accessible Tailwater

The river below Fife Brook is a classic tailwater with daily hydropeaking events. Minimum flow for the river below Fife Brook Dam has historically been 125 cfs with an average dam release of 900 cfs during power generation and recreational release days. It is a tale of two rivers. At high water, the Deerfield is fast and burly, with rapids and pocketwater, long runs strewn with boulders, and deep pools that invoke the imagination.

During minimum flows, it becomes a technical fishery with spooky trout that feed selectively when the sun is high. Though it becomes more technical at low flows, it also becomes more accessible to wading fishermen—the rapids become small pocketwater, the runs become concentrated, and the deep pools are available to prospecting for shore-bound anglers. In terms of access, the Deerfield is almost completely public, with pull-over spots to park along its entire length along RT 2 and River Road. Every good-looking hole on the river holds trout, making it easy to find your own spot to fish.

Fishing during peak flows is more difficult for those on foot, as you may have to hike farther to locate pockets and seams that can be targeted from the bank. Trout can really stack up in that sort of water, so a good hike pays dividends for mobile anglers. Fishing from a drift boat or raft is the most productive way to tackle the river at peak flows, and it’s a stunning float through some of the most beautiful country in New England.

Big water draws out the big browns, and throwing streamers like Rich Strolis’s Headbanger Sculpin and Galloup’s Barely Legal can elicit powerful strikes. Both patterns imitate the two most important food sources for big browns in the Deerfield—sculpins and small wild rainbows.

In the summer, the ubiquitous hopper/dropper or dry/dropper technique reigns supreme—from boats or on foot during dam releases. Big stoneflies and grasshoppers wind up in the water during the summer, and the trout take notice. To imitate these foods, I throw Chubby Chernobyls in stonefly and hopper colors and sizes 8 and 10, with a #16 nymph dropper like a Higas SOS, or Pheasant Tail hanging 18 inches below. Bugmeisters, Amy’s Ants, and foam hoppers like Craven’s Dropper Hopper also make for good indicator flies, although more often than not it’s the big dry that’s the main attraction. They make for some absolutely violent surface takes.

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The Deerfield is primarily a nymphing river, and indicator fishing is one of the easiest pathways to success. My preferred indicator setup is a 10-foot, 4-weight nymphing stick with a 12-foot, hand-constructed leader that tapers quickly to 4X fluorocarbon. I add tippet with a triple surgeon’s knot, leaving a 4-inch tag for the dropper fly, and 24 inches to a heavy anchor fly.

Fighting for Wild Trout

The Deerfield River has a reputation as one of the premier trout rivers in New England, but the quality fishing relies heavily on stocking from the State of Massachusetts. There just aren’t enough wild fish. I always felt the river could be better, particularly after watching trout, year after year, spawning in areas that were later dewatered when the dam was operated at minimum flows. It looked like we were losing a significant number of our wild trout from hydropeaking.

angler kneeling in water holding nice-sized brown trout with one hand

In 2011, the defunct Deerfield River Watershed Chapter of Trout Unlimited was resurrected by local trout anglers who understood that our river and its tributaries needed advocacy—particularly with the Fife Brook Dam/Bear Swamp complex owned by Brookfield Energy coming up for federal relicensing by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). I volunteered for the board of directors, and joined the FERC negotiating team with attorney Kevin Parsons, and attorney Christopher Myhrum, who would later take the lead in mediation for Trout Unlimited.

Like many other large rivers, the Deerfield has other user groups. On the Deerfield there are three whitewater rafting companies and associated recreational whitewater interests like Friends for the Liberation of Water (FLOW), American Whitewater, and the Appalachian Mountain Club. In the early FERC meetings it became clear that user groups had different visions for the future of the Deerfield. TU, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife wanted increased minimum flows for trout and overall river ecology. The whitewater interests wanted increased flows during summer dam releases to make the river more “exciting.” They were essentially advocating for a whitewater theme park.

These differences created two camps on the recreational side—one wanted increased minimum flows, the other wanted more dramatic peaking flows. These two visions would be in conflict for the remainder of the process.

Citizen Science

The Fife Brook/Bear Swamp facility is owned by Brookfield Energy, one of the largest energy companies in the world. It was clear early on that they would relentlessly pursue their primary goal in the process, which was to oppose any changes to the current license terms. Early in the process, we had no scientific evidence to refute Brookfield’s position that their operations did nothing to negatively impact the trout or the river ecology. We needed science, but the state and federal agencies didn’t have the budgets to allocate for a study. The Deerfield Watershed TU chapter voted to allocate funds, apply for an Embrace a Stream grant, and create fundraisers to cover the costs. Biologists from the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife would design the study, and the work would be supervised by state and federal scientists. The work would be done by a volunteer force comprised of TU members from the local chapter and other volunteers. The completed study found that around 40 percent of brown trout eggs were lost annually from dewatering. This proved to be a significant finding that compelled FERC to order more studies from Brookfield. Ultimately the additional studies were moot, as FERC decided to approve Brookfield’s license application, notwithstanding the new information regarding the trout spawning.

A Year of Mediation

Luckily that decision by FERC was not the end of the story. In order to receive the license, Brookfield Energy required a 401 Water Certification from Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which would weigh on whether or not the discharge of any facility violates the terms of the Clean Water Act. DEP found that Brookfield’s operations did just that, by negatively impacting trout spawning and endangered dragonfly emergence.

With two pathways before them—litigation or mediation—Brookfield chose the latter. The mediation lasted more than a year and included representatives of Trout Unlimited, the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, lawyers from DEP, and representatives and counsel for Brookfield. The negotiation was grueling but eventually a tentative agreement was reached to increase winter minimum flows to 225 cfs. That’s enough water to protect spawning trout and provide more water for insect populations.

It seemed as though a victory was in hand until the whitewater groups FLOW and American Whitewater appealed the agreement, citing a 2019 Trump administration FERC decision ( Hoopa Valley Tribe v. FERC ) that set aside an agreement because it went beyond the statutory one-year mark allotted for mediation.

At the time of this writing no decision has been made by administrative review or by FERC in response to this appeal, so it seems the terms of the mediation will prevail. DEP has filed a response supporting the mediation process, as has Brookfield Energy. This appears to be good news on its face, but it’s never wise to assume any outcome in a legal proceeding. It is my hope that this appeal is denied, and we have a new beginning for the Deerfield River by the time this article is published.

Winter Browns on the Deerfield

The Deerfield fishes well year-round, with some of the best browns coming in the dead of winter. Stoneflies like Pat’s Rubber Legs tied with heavy tungsten beads, jig streamers, and San Juan Worms can get you connected to the big ones. Focus on slow-moving seams and pockets adjacent to fast water. Big browns conserve their energy for easy feeding in the winter. That’s why a big stone or jig is so compelling—it’s a pepperoni pizza going by the couch. That’s not to say they won’t eat popcorn (midges), it just has to be right in front of them. A bigger target is a much easier approach in the higher flows of the winter.

smiling angler holding large brown trout just above surface of water along a snowy bank

Spring brings some of the best fishing of the year, with practically every technique working. The thousands of stocked rainbows the state provides are like golden retrievers—throw it out there, and they’ll chase it down and bring it back to you. Olive Krystal Buggers, Sparkle Minnows, and Slumpbusters can rack up huge numbers of stockies in the spring. Nymphing with Mop Flies, Flashback Pheasant-tails, Prince Nymphs, and Squirmy Wormies under an indicator can produce good numbers when bugs aren’t showing.

Dry-fly fishing can begin as early as mid-April some years, but the most reliable action comes May through the end of June. Hendricksons, Blue-winged Olives, Sulphurs, March Browns, and Isonychias are the most common mayfly hatches. I fish Compara-duns and Usuals for mayflies, changing the dubbing color and hook size to match whatever species I see—those two universal patterns rarely fail me.

The Deerfield is a caddis-heavy river, and prudent anglers have a variety of sizes and colors to match both the pupae and adults. I also take a simple approach to the caddis riddle and carry green Strolis’s Classified Caddis Pupa in #14-16 and in tan #16-20. The green covers Brachycentrus and Rhyacophila , and the tan covers the Hydropsyche caddis that seem to be buzzing around practically every evening from late May through October. Mathews’s X-Caddis in a variety of colors (#14-20) covers most of the adults, as does a classic Elk-hair Caddis.

Stoneflies are common table fare for Deerfield trout. Even in high water, trout will move for a Bugmeister, Parachute Madam X, or a Chubby Chernobyl. If you like to torment your soul with fine tippets and small drys, there are always midge-sipping trout in the catch-and-release area below Fife Brook Dam. A size 24 Parachute Adams always seems to get a nod for me, but experiment if you want consistent success.

Summer Evenings on the Deerfield

Summer is the busiest time of the year on the D, and as on many other trout rivers across the country, tubers can be an issue on the weekends. I still catch fish amid the tube traffic during the day; you just have to accept you won’t be alone on the river and just try to enjoy the beautiful weather that a New England summer provides.

two anglers, one holding a large brown trout with two hands out of the water, the other squatting and smiling behind

The evenings can see a mix of sporadic insect activity with multiple species at play: caddis; midges; and Cahill, Sulphur, and Isonychia spinners. These punctuated hatches bring the fish up during the last hour of light and into the darkness. If you have two rods, rig one with a mayfly spinner and one with a caddis or midge, depending on what you’re seeing. Sometimes they devour caddis, then suddenly switch to some unidentified insect. Often this is a mayfly spinner that you can just barely see in the low light. Having the extra setup can eliminate the frustration of trying to tie something on with a headlamp—all the while shaking from the buzzing of insects and the sounds of rising trout.

Fall in the northern Berkshires is truly magical. The countryside comes ablaze with colors that only nature can provide, and the magic extends to the fishing, too. Hatches become more compelling, with some of the spring insects making a second appearance. Be prepared for a variety of caddis, Isonychias , Cahills, and Blue-winged Olives using Compara-duns, X-Caddis, and PMXs with orange bodies to imitate October Caddis.

Prudent anglers should also have a selection of flying ant patterns in both black and cinnamon, as swarming ant migrations are common in the fall. The cinnamon ones tend to be larger, and if you hit it right (typically a warm afternoon preceded by a couple of cool days) you may see practically every trout in the river feeding on top. Black flying ants can create more technical fishing, as they range from size 18 down to 22, looking like specks of black pepper seasoning the surface film. Foam flying ants or CDC flying ants in black and cinnamon both do a fine job.

Fall Foliage on the Deerfield

The dry-fly action reaches a crescendo in early October with Blue-winged Olives coming off reliably every afternoon, making for some of the best dry-fly action of the year, with spectacular foliage as a bonus backdrop. Overcast and rainy days are best for targeting browns with streamers, their appetites intensifying as they approach the spawn, which begins in late October and peaks in November.

large brown trout held by angler over a net just above the water in a chilly weather

The spawning season brings some of the best indicator fishing of the year, with rainbows gorging themselves on eggs that drift downriver from spawning browns. Egg patterns can rack up impressive numbers, but can also damage fish. The rainbows absolutely inhale well-tied eggs. I started tying all my egg patterns on short, wide-gap barbless jig hooks like the Dohiku Claw. It always finds a good purchase and comes out easily without damaging mouths. A fish that doesn’t have a damaged mouth is more likely to survive and get right back to feeding—something all fly fishers should contemplate.

Try to avoid wading through trout redds, which are oblong 2- to 4-foot areas of clean gravel. The eggs in gravel can be crushed or displaced by wading. If you see fish actively spawning, resist the temptation to fish for them. Every successful spawning attempt translates into more wild fish, and many people have worked for years to improve the spawning success of wild trout in this river.

The Deerfield is a river that all Northeast fly fishers should have on their bucket lists. It is a gorgeous river that feels like something from out West, yet is less than two hours from Boston and Connecticut, and a four-hour drive from New York City. It’s a productive river that has a chance to improve and become a wild fishery, a result that would be welcome in this age of climate change.

Should you decide to make it a multi-day trip or have your spouse accompany you, there are excellent restaurants in nearby Shelburne Falls, which is a Norman Rockwell-esque town sprinkled with small shops and art studios. Another attraction a short drive away is the Thomas & Thomas factory in Bernardston, Massachusetts. T&T has been revitalized under the ownership of Neville Orsmond and is back to making some of the finest graphite and bamboo rods in the world. At the time of this writing there are no longer factory tours available to the public due to Covid, but perhaps that will change as the pandemic winds down. The Deerfield River has certainly been a proving ground for this iconic brand, and this historic factory is a vital part of the fly-fishing culture in this part of the world.

Christopher Jackson was a board member of the Deerfield River Watershed Chapter of Trout Unlimited, and still is a part of the FERC negotiating team. He’s been a guide for 16 years and lives in Charlemont, Massachusetts. Find him on Instagram at @jacksonchrisd.

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Ross Purnell and a crew of climber-anglers make a once-in-a-lifetime trip to “middle Earth” to fish for an isolated population of native rainbow trout. The Middle Cascades of Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park is a next-to-impossible section of water to access that few have ever even seen, much less fished. It requires a dangerous climb, followed by rappelling into a gorge, then swimming to the fish. It would require careful planning, even more careful navigation, and a little luck. Follow along on this adventure of all adventures to see what they find, and how they deal with the numerous challenges, both foreseen and unforeseen, in Descent.

Scientific Anglers Launches Reimagined Tropical Saltwater Fly Lines

The Magnitude series is a completely new creation in the same way that the first breathable waders and the first graphite rods were fundamentally different from their predecessors. These are the first lines from Scientific Anglers that are not polyvinyl chloride. Magnitude lines are made from new, naturally buoyant polymers. That's one reason why they are clear or available with clear tips—because these new polymers don't require an infusion of tiny glass spheres or bubbles for buoyancy.

Check Out Grundens' New Vector Wader!

Director of Product Curtis Graves walks us through Grundens' new Vector Wader. It features four-layer laminated puncture-resistant microfiber face fabric and is designed with Grundens' traditional high-mobility structure. It has two large front pockets, is convertible to waist-high, and has a new “warming” neoprene in the stocking feet. Available now.

Fly Fishing the Plunge Pools of Yosemite Falls (trailer)

Fly Fusion Trout Tour Sizzle Reel

The Fly Fusion Trout Tour is a perfect excuse to get together with friends while watching an epic collection of trouty films from award-winning filmmakers, Gilbert Rowley, Phil Tuttle, The Braker Bros, Todd Moen, RA Beattie and Fly Fusion Films.

Introducing Orvis's New 4th Generation Helios Fly Rod

Director of Design and Development for the Orvis Company Shawn Combs walks us through all the details of the incredible new Helios. From drastically improved accuracy and durability to the handsome new components and much more, you'll want to see this one. And he promises that Orvis will get you back on the water within five days of breaking your rod with sections that do not need to be matched to your exact rod. Combs also boasts its light swing weight for responsiveness, redirection, and fast casts. Will this rod be the next game changer?

How to Tie Dorsey's Top Secret Baetis Fly

These days there are so many reasonably simple fly patterns that work well but have no soul or appeal to fly tiers. Pat Dorsey took a simple combination of materials and created a fly that is durable, quick, and fun to tie, and it not only gets the job done, but it also looks good doing it. Based off the success of his remarkable Top Secret Midge pattern, Dorsey took a familiar route to alter that pattern slightly to create this effective Baetis imitation. The beauty of this fly is that it is tied from very commonly available materials—for the most part, albeit with some necessary modern-day substitutions—and it is straightforward to tie.

Orvis Presents “School of Fish” Full Film

Indigenous people and salmon have been intertwined for thousands of years in Bristol Bay, Alaska. Today, kids learn from elders to fish but must also learn to fight, as pollution from Pebble Mine threatens this pristine ecosystem. Can the next generation defend the most prolific salmon run left on earth?

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#1 New England Fly Fishing Blog. Among Top 25 in the World. 100% of profits to charity. Androscoggin, Ashuelot, Beaverhead, Cache la Poudre, Cape Cod, Chattooga, Cocheco, Connecticut, Deerfield, Ellis, Exeter, Farmington, Grand Lake Stream, Hoosic, Housatonic, Isinglass, Jackson, Lamprey, Little, Little Truckee, Millers, Natchaug, New Haven, Nissitissit, Otter Creek, Quaboag, Quinapoxet, Quinebaug, Rapid, Rock Creek, Saco, Salmon, Sandy Creek, Shetucket, Soque, Souhegan, South Holston, South Platte, Squannacook, Stillwater, Swift, Wachusett Reservoir, Westfield, White, Willimantic and others.

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Swift River

Westfield East Branch

Best Flies and Spots

33" Brown Trout

Farmington River

Best Flies and DIY Spots: Easy Links

These flies work, and these rivers produce. Links are below. Note that these are all amply-stocked waters that many already visit and about which much information already has been published. I’ve found that many rivers are sub-par. I track in my fishing journal what fly patterns work on which waters. So, the links below are

Stoneflies and Midges

This is a great video about some bugs that I don’t think get enough attention. It also covers rise forms when fish tip their hand about what they’re eating and why. Some of my favorite patterns are stoneflies and midges. They are often in the drift and are less obvious. In my opinion, you cannot

My Favorite Spring Nymph

After a lot of trial and error over the years, I found a nymph pattern that works well for me in the spring. It may not look like much, but for some reason it tends to be a top producer with both wild fish and stocked ones. The fly has worked all over New England

Swift Reward

With all of the rain this winter and spring, the Quabbin Reservoir has been spilling since January. I have not been fishing the Swift River, but the flows have made for good sightseeing at the spillway. I’ve taken a few walks along the river and learned where the trees have been removed (or deposited). When

It was a lot of driving for not many fish. I was hoping for Hendricksons. Nope. With a stiff, cold breeze and water at 44 °F, not many fish showed themselves. I didn’t see any anglers with fish on, but I decided to keep at it to get some payback for all the drive time.

Unveiling the Secrets of Best Fly Fishing in New England: A Journey of Discovery

Fly fishing is a specialized fishing technique that uses a fly rod, fly line, and artificial fly to catch fish. It is a popular and challenging sport that can be enjoyed in many different settings, including rivers, lakes, and streams.

New England is home to some of the best fly fishing in the world. The region’s cold, clear waters are ideal for trout, salmon, and other game fish. New England also has a long and rich history of fly fishing, dating back to the early 19th century.

There are many different places to go fly fishing in New England. Some of the most popular destinations include the Farmington River in Connecticut, the Kennebec River in Maine, and the Androscoggin River in New Hampshire. These rivers offer a variety of fishing opportunities, from technical dry fly fishing to streamer fishing for large trout.

Table of Contents

best fly fishing in new england

Fly fishing in New England offers a unique and rewarding experience for anglers of all levels. Here are 12 key aspects that make it one of the best places to fly fish in the world:

Cold, clear waters

Abundant fish populations, variety of fishing opportunities, beautiful scenery, long and rich history, friendly and knowledgeable locals, well-maintained infrastructure, affordable prices, easy access from major cities, opportunities for learning and improvement, sense of community, unforgettable memories.

These aspects all contribute to making New England a top destination for fly fishing. The cold, clear waters are home to a variety of fish species, including trout, salmon, and bass. The region’s diverse landscape offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from technical dry fly fishing to streamer fishing for large trout. And the long and rich history of fly fishing in New England means that there are plenty of experienced anglers and guides to help you make the most of your trip.

Cold, clear waters are essential for fly fishing. Trout, salmon, and other game fish need cold, well-oxygenated water to survive. In New England, the cold, clear waters of the region’s rivers and streams provide the perfect habitat for these fish.

The cold water temperatures also help to keep the fish active and aggressive. This makes them more likely to strike at a fly, which is essential for successful fly fishing.

In addition, the clear waters of New England’s rivers and streams allow anglers to see the fish they are casting to. This makes it easier to target specific fish and to avoid snagging your fly on underwater obstacles.

Overall, the cold, clear waters of New England are a major reason why the region is home to some of the best fly fishing in the world.

Abundant fish populations are essential for best fly fishing in new england. Trout, salmon, and other game fish need a healthy population to thrive. In New England, the cold, clear waters and diverse habitat provide the perfect conditions for these fish to flourish.

The abundance of fish in New England’s rivers and streams means that anglers have a good chance of catching fish, even if they are not experienced fly fishers. This makes it a great place to learn the sport and to improve your skills.

In addition, the abundance of fish in New England means that there is less pressure on each individual fish. This means that the fish are less likely to be spooked and more likely to strike at a fly. This makes for a more enjoyable and successful fly fishing experience.

Overall, the abundant fish populations in New England are a major reason why the region is home to some of the best fly fishing in the world.

A variety of fishing opportunities is essential for the best fly fishing in New England. This is because different fish species have different habitat preferences and feeding habits. By offering a variety of fishing opportunities, anglers can target the specific fish species they are looking to catch.

For example, some anglers may prefer to fish for trout in small mountain streams, while others may prefer to fish for salmon in large rivers. Still others may prefer to fish for bass in lakes or ponds. By offering a variety of fishing opportunities, New England caters to the needs of all types of anglers.

In addition, a variety of fishing opportunities helps to keep the sport interesting. Anglers can choose to fish for different species of fish, using different techniques, in different locations. This helps to keep the sport challenging and exciting.

Overall, the variety of fishing opportunities in New England is a major reason why the region is home to some of the best fly fishing in the world.

Beautiful scenery is an important part of the best fly fishing in New England. The region’s mountains, forests, and rivers provide a stunning backdrop for a day of fishing.

The beauty of New England’s scenery can help to make your fishing trip more enjoyable and relaxing. It can also help to improve your focus and concentration, which can lead to better fishing results.

In addition, the beautiful scenery of New England can help to create a sense of place and belonging. When you’re surrounded by such natural beauty, it’s easy to forget about your troubles and just enjoy the moment.

Here are a few tips for enjoying the beautiful scenery while you’re fly fishing in New England:

Take some time to look around and appreciate the scenery. Don’t just focus on fishing the whole time.
Bring a camera so you can capture the beauty of the scenery.
Share your photos of the scenery with your friends and family.

By taking the time to enjoy the beautiful scenery, you can make your fly fishing trip even more enjoyable and memorable.

Fly fishing has a long and rich history in New England. The region’s first fly fishermen were European settlers who brought their passion for the sport with them from England. In the early 19th century, American fly fishermen began to develop their own unique techniques and flies. These early fly fishermen played a major role in the development of the sport in the United States.

New England has been home to some of the most famous and influential fly fishermen in history. These include Theodore Gordon, who is considered the father of American fly fishing, and Carrie Stevens, who was one of the first women to fly fish. New England has also been the setting for some of the most important events in the history of fly fishing, including the first organized fly fishing tournament in the United States.

The long and rich history of fly fishing in New England has helped to make the region one of the best places in the world to fly fish. The region’s fly fishermen have made significant contributions to the sport, and their legacy continues to inspire anglers today.

One of the things that makes fly fishing in New England so special is the friendly and knowledgeable locals. These are people who are passionate about fly fishing and are always willing to share their knowledge with others.

Local guides Local guides are a great way to learn about the best fishing spots and techniques. They can also provide you with valuable information about the local fish populations and the best times to fish.
Shop owners Shop owners are another great source of information about fly fishing in New England. They can tell you about the best flies to use, the best places to fish, and the best times to go.
Fellow anglers You can also learn a lot from other anglers. Strike up a conversation with someone on the river or at a local fly shop. You might be surprised at how much they are willing to share.
Online forums There are a number of online forums dedicated to fly fishing in New England. These forums are a great place to connect with other anglers and learn about the latest fishing conditions.

The friendly and knowledgeable locals are one of the things that makes fly fishing in New England so special. These are people who are passionate about the sport and are always willing to share their knowledge with others. If you’re looking to learn more about fly fishing, or if you just want to meet some new people, be sure to connect with the locals.

Well-maintained infrastructure is an important component of the best fly fishing in New England. This includes roads, bridges, and trails that provide access to fishing spots, as well as dams and other structures that help to regulate water flow and maintain fish populations.

Good infrastructure makes it easier for anglers to get to the best fishing spots and to enjoy their time on the water. It also helps to protect the environment and the fish populations that anglers rely on.

For example, well-maintained roads and bridges make it easier for anglers to reach remote fishing spots. This can open up new areas to fishing and help to reduce pressure on popular fishing spots.

Dams and other structures can help to regulate water flow and maintain fish populations. Dams can create reservoirs that provide habitat for fish and help to maintain water levels during dry periods. Fish ladders and other structures can help fish to migrate around dams and other obstacles.

In short, well-maintained infrastructure is essential for the best fly fishing in New England. It provides access to fishing spots, protects the environment, and helps to maintain fish populations.

When considering “best fly fishing in new england”, the aspect of “Affordable prices” plays a pivotal role. With costs ranging from entry-level gear to guided excursions, understanding the financial implications can greatly enhance your planning and decision-making for an optimal fishing experience. Here are some key facets to consider:

Cost of Equipment Fly fishing equipment can vary in price depending on quality, brand, and specialization. Entry-level gear, including a rod, reel, and basic flies, can start from a few hundred dollars. As you delve deeper into the sport, specialized equipment for different fish species or fishing techniques may require additional investment.
Guided Trips Guided fly fishing trips offer a comprehensive experience with an expert guiding you to the best spots and providing instruction. While these trips provide convenience and expertise, they come with a higher price tag. Costs can vary based on the duration, location, and reputation of the guide.
Accommodation and Travel Depending on the location of your fly fishing destination, accommodation and travel expenses should be factored in. Researching budget-friendly options, considering off-season travel, or exploring camping and RV rentals can help manage these costs.
Permits and Licenses Most states require anglers to obtain fishing licenses and, in some cases, specific permits for fly fishing. These fees contribute to conservation efforts and support local fisheries management. Costs vary depending on the state and the type of license or permit required.

When considering “best fly fishing in New England”, the aspect of “Easy access from major cities” emerges as a key enabler. For many anglers, particularly those with limited time or resources, the ability to reach prime fishing destinations within a reasonable driving distance is a crucial factor.

New England boasts a well-developed transportation network, allowing anglers from major cities like Boston, New York, and Hartford to embark on fly fishing adventures without dedicating excessive time to travel. This proximity to urban centers makes it feasible for anglers to plan day trips or weekend getaways, maximizing their time on the water.

Furthermore, the accessibility of New England’s rivers and streams via well-maintained roads and highways contributes to the region’s appeal. Anglers can conveniently reach their desired fishing spots without encountering significant obstacles or lengthy detours. This ease of access encourages spontaneous trips and allows anglers to explore different waterways with relative ease.

In summary, the “Easy access from major cities” is an integral component of “best fly fishing in New England.” It enables anglers to efficiently allocate their time and resources, maximizing their fishing opportunities while balancing their urban lifestyles.

In the realm of “best fly fishing in new england,” the aspect of “Opportunities for learning and improvement” holds immense significance. Fly fishing, by nature, is a skill that demands patience, practice, and a continuous pursuit of knowledge. New England provides unparalleled opportunities for anglers to enhance their techniques and expand their understanding of the sport.

One key factor contributing to these opportunities is the presence of experienced fly fishing guides and instructors. These knowledgeable individuals offer guided trips, workshops, and private lessons, catering to all skill levels. By partnering with a guide, anglers can gain valuable insights into local fishing conditions, effective fly selection, and proper casting techniques. This personalized guidance accelerates the learning process and helps anglers refine their skills more efficiently.

Moreover, New England is home to numerous fly fishing clubs and organizations. These groups often host meetings, seminars, and organized outings, providing platforms for anglers to connect, share knowledge, and learn from one another. By actively participating in these communities, anglers can tap into a wealth of collective wisdom and stay abreast of the latest techniques and trends in the sport.

In addition, New England’s diverse range of fisheries offers anglers the chance to target a variety of species, each presenting its unique set of challenges and opportunities for learning. From the technical demands of dry fly fishing for trout in mountain streams to the power and finesse required to land a striper on the coast, the region’s waters provide a rich training ground for anglers to develop their skills and become well-rounded fly fishers.

In the landscape of “best fly fishing in new england,” the aspect of “Sense of community” emerges as a vibrant thread that binds anglers together and enriches their overall experience. This sense of community manifests in various facets, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment that enhances the pursuit of fly fishing in the region.

Fly fishing in New England attracts individuals who share a deep passion for the sport. This common ground creates a sense of camaraderie among anglers, who often connect through local clubs, online forums, and social gatherings. They enthusiastically share their knowledge, tips, and experiences, fostering a collaborative spirit that benefits all.

Within the New England fly fishing community, experienced anglers generously share their wisdom and expertise with newcomers and aspiring enthusiasts. Seasoned guides and instructors offer personalized guidance, helping individuals refine their techniques, improve their understanding of local waters, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the sport.

The fly fishing community in New England is deeply committed to preserving the pristine waters and ecosystems that sustain their beloved sport. Anglers actively participate in conservation initiatives, volunteering their time and resources to protect and restore fish habitats, ensuring the longevity of the sport for generations to come.

Throughout the year, New England hosts numerous fly fishing tournaments, festivals, and social events. These gatherings provide opportunities for anglers to connect, share stories, and celebrate their passion. These events foster a sense of belonging and reinforce the strong community bonds that unite fly fishers in the region.

In conclusion, the “Sense of community” in New England is an integral part of what makes fly fishing in the region so exceptional. It fosters a welcoming and supportive environment where anglers can learn, grow, and share their passion for the sport. This sense of belonging and camaraderie enriches the overall experience, making it not just about catching fish but also about forging lasting connections and contributing to the preservation of a shared legacy.

In the realm of “best fly fishing in new england,” the aspect of “Unforgettable memories” emerges as a radiant thread woven into the fabric of the experience. Fly fishing, by nature, is a pursuit that lends itself to the creation of enduring and cherished recollections that transcend the mere act of catching fish.

Amidst the tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes of New England’s rivers and streams, fly fishing offers anglers moments of serene solitude and profound connection with the natural world. The rhythmic cast of the line, the gentle tug of a fish, and the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings combine to create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting imprint on the memory.

Thrilling battles and unexpected triumphs

Shared adventures and enduring friendships

Fly fishing in New England is often a shared experience, enjoyed among friends and fellow enthusiasts. The camaraderie, laughter, and shared challenges create a strong sense of community and forge enduring friendships. These shared adventures, whether spent on remote mountain streams or bustling rivers, become the foundation of cherished memories that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth long after the fishing day has ended.

Preservation of a cherished legacy

The pursuit of fly fishing in New England is deeply intertwined with the preservation of a cherished legacy. Anglers share a common goal of protecting and conserving the pristine waters and ecosystems that support their beloved sport. Through active involvement in conservation initiatives and a shared commitment to responsible fishing practices, anglers contribute to the preservation of this legacy, ensuring that future generations can experience the same unforgettable memories that have shaped their own.

In conclusion, the aspect of “Unforgettable memories” is an integral part of what makes “best fly fishing in new england” so exceptional. It encompasses the serene solitude, thrilling battles, shared adventures, and the preservation of a cherished legacy. These memories, woven together like a tapestry of cherished moments, create an enduring connection to the sport and the region, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of anglers.

Before you embark on your fly fishing adventure in New England, here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan a successful and enjoyable trip.

Question 1: What are the best times to go fly fishing in New England?

The best time for fly fishing in New England varies depending on the species you’re targeting and the specific river or stream you’re fishing. In general, spring and fall are excellent seasons for fly fishing in New England, as the water temperatures are moderate, and the fish are actively feeding.

Question 2: What types of fish can I catch fly fishing in New England?

New England’s rivers and streams are home to a variety of fish species that are popular among fly fishers. These include trout (brook, brown, and rainbow), salmon (Atlantic and landlocked), bass (largemouth and smallmouth), and carp.

Question 3: What gear do I need for fly fishing in New England?

The basic gear you’ll need for fly fishing in New England includes a fly rod, reel, line, flies, and leaders. You may also want to consider waders, boots, and other accessories to enhance your comfort and safety while fishing.

Question 4: Are there any special regulations or permits required for fly fishing in New England?

Yes, most states in New England require anglers to have a valid fishing license. Some rivers and streams may also have specific regulations or permit requirements, so it’s always best to check with the local authorities before you go fishing.

Question 5: Can I hire a guide for fly fishing in New England?

Yes, there are many experienced fly fishing guides operating in New England. Hiring a guide can be a great way to learn more about the local waters, improve your casting techniques, and increase your chances of catching fish.

Question 6: What are some tips for fly fishing in New England?

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your fly fishing experience in New England:

– Be prepared for changing weather conditions. – Practice casting before you go fishing. – Use the right flies for the fish you’re targeting. – Be patient and persistent. – Respect the environment and follow ethical fishing practices.

By following these tips and doing a bit of research on the specific area you’ll be fishing, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable fly fishing trip in New England.

Now that you have a better understanding of fly fishing in New England and the answers to some frequently asked questions, you can start planning your trip.

Tight lines and good luck on your next fly fishing adventure!

Tips for “best fly fishing in new england”

Fly fishing in New England offers a unique and rewarding experience for anglers of all levels. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Tip 1: Be prepared for changing weather conditions.

New England weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for all types of conditions. Bring layers of clothing so you can adjust to changing temperatures. And don’t forget your rain gear, just in case .

Tip 2: Practice casting before you go fishing.

The more you practice casting, the more accurate and efficient you’ll become. This will help you catch more fish and enjoy your time on the water even more.

Tip 3: Use the right flies for the fish you’re targeting.

There are many different types of flies that you can use for fly fishing. The best fly to use will depend on the type of fish you’re targeting and the time of year.

Tip 4: Be patient and persistent.

Fly fishing can be a challenging sport, but it’s also very rewarding. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch a fish right away. Keep practicing and you’ll eventually start to see results.

Tip 5: Respect the environment and follow ethical fishing practices.

Fly fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. It’s important to respect the environment and follow ethical fishing practices so that future generations can enjoy this sport as well.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable fly fishing trip in New England.

Tight lines and good luck!

Fly fishing in New England is a unique and rewarding experience that offers something for anglers of all levels. From the cold, clear waters to the abundant fish populations and diverse fishing opportunities, New England has it all. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’re sure to find your perfect fishing spot in this beautiful region.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your rod and reel and head to New England for the best fly fishing experience of your life!

Jeffrey Fosse

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Professional guides reveal the best fly-fishing spots in New England

Even if you don’t catch a thing take solace in the old saying: trout don’t live in ugly places..

Illustration of a person fly-fishing in a river.

Fly-fishing, put simply, is not how most of us spend our time. The 7 million anglers who cast fake bugs tied to the end of long, lightweight rods represent just 2 percent of all fishermen and women, according to pre-COVID 2020 figures from the nonprofit Outdoor Foundation. But that’s still a record high, and there’s anticipation of a pandemic bump in participation. “Fly-fishing has built-in social distancing,” says Gerry Crow, a longtime fly fisherman and guide with New Hampshire Rivers Guide Service . “If you’re waving a fly rod around with a hook on the end of it, you’re not going to invade anyone’s personal space.” And in New England, with insects hatching and water temperatures reaching a still-chilly, trout-tempting sweet spot, spring is an ideal time to take up the art of fooling fish with fur and feathers. Even if you wind up getting skunked, just look around and take solace in an old truism: Trout don’t live in ugly places.

GET BACK TO NATURE WITH THESE STORIES: Getting outside | Birding | Gardens | Cape Walks

MASSACHUSETTS

The narrower upper section of the Deerfield River conjures Colorado in the Berkshires: steep slopes, white birches, sedan-sized boulders, and fish lurking in pools and riffles. Hydroelectric dams segment the Deerfield’s more-than-70-mile run from the Green Mountains to the Connecticut River in Greenfield, reliably releasing cold water that stimulates stocked and wild brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Head north of Route 2 to the town of Florida and put in at the Fife Brook Dam boat access point off of River Road — winter runoff and high flows make a raft essential — and watch for the crumbled remains of a grist mill as you float downstream beneath a trestle bridge.

Tips from a Pro: Brian Lynch of Pheasant Tail Tours (413-834-7301, pheasanttailtours.com )

In early spring, look for deeper pools and cast toward the shallow edge (known as a tailout), Lynch says. If you can’t tell what’s hatching, a Krystal Flash wooly bugger, which is a baitfish-mimicking streamer, seldom misses. “That thing is responsible for more people’s first fish on a fly rod out of my boat than any other fly that I’ve got,” he says.

Grab A Bite: The Blue Rock Restaurant

The coffee-rubbed pork ribs are a constant on the ever-changing menu at this eclectic eatery, with porch seating overlooking the river. 1 Ashfield Street, Shelburne Falls, 413-625-8133, thebluerockrestaurant.com

CONNECTICUT

The west branch of the Farmington River, a designated National Wild and Scenic River that winds through the evergreens and hemlocks of Litchfield County, has a reputation for dependability: like the Deerfield, it’s a tailwater — meaning downstream of a dam — that stays a little warmer than other streams in winter and a little cooler in summer, making dry-fly trout fishing possible 12 months a year. And despite being a go-to spot for anglers from Manhattan to Maine, the abundance of the Farmington has been increasing: In 2019, state authorities tallied 4,500 trout in a 5.6-mile catch-and-release segment, the largest count on record. The Church Pool in Barkhamsted, where a green steel truss bridge crosses at the junction of Routes 181 and 318, is in the middle of that stretch. Park in the adjacent dirt lot, walk down the footpath, and cast into a riffle that dumps into wide, deep water stretching a quarter-mile.

Tips from a Pro: Torrey Collins of UpCountry Sportfishing (860-379-1952, farmingtonriver.com )

For flies, Collins suggests tying on a black stone or blue winged olive in March, a blue quill in early April, and a Hendrickson in the weeks from mid-April to early May. Considering that this is one of the most heavily fished streams in New England, plan to show up early. “If you go to a place like Church Pool in the afternoon,” Collins cautions, “people will have already been in that riffle all day long.”

Grab A Bite: Royal Coachman Tavern at the Old Riverton Inn

Sharing space with an 18th-century inn on the Farmington River (and named for the Royal Coachman fly pattern), the tavern offers a comfort food menu that peaks with coconut chili wings and charbroiled burgers. 436 East River Road, Riverton, 860-379-8678, rivertoninn.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Gerry Crow has a hard drive full of his rookie students’ “hero shots,” the look-what-I-caught snapshots of anglers hoisting their first aquatic trophies. Many of them were snapped on a portion of the Contoocook River, which runs a jagged parallel with Route 202 between Henniker and Hillsborough in southwestern New Hampshire. Oxygen-stirring white-water rapids — including Freight Train, a roaring Class IV — deep pools, and algae-slick boulders make this the best trout fishing habitat on the northeasterly flowing stream. Springtime anglers come out of hibernation to greet the browns and brookies feasting on the first hatches of mayflies. Park along Ramsdell Road east of the Route 114 bridge, where downtown Henniker fades among oaks and maples.

Tips from a Pro: Gerry Crow of New Hampshire Rivers Guide Service (603-889-5611, nhriversguide.com )

In early spring, wait until the water warms up in mid-afternoon when the insects are more active. If you can’t identify what’s hatching, try a mayfly pattern like a Parachute Adams. And no matter how placid the current seems, bring a wading staff to keep your balance just in case. “It could be nothing more than an old ski pole or a beaver stick — you don’t have to spend $150 on something out of the Orvis catalog,” Crow says.

Grab A Bite: Daniels Restaurant

With views over the Contoocook, diners can watch fishermen flail while chomping on butternut squash ravioli. 48 Main Street, Henniker, 603-428-7621, danielsofhenniker.com

Spring arrives late to Moosehead Lake, just above Greenville in north central Maine: In mid-May, water temperatures are still in the mid-40s. That’s when you’ll want to explore the East Outlet of the Kennebec River, 3Æ ledgy, spruce-and-fir-filled, signs-of-civilization-free miles linking the lake with Indian Pond, where sussing out all the pools and runs can take a few days. Along with brook trout, these dam-released waters are home to an abundance of landlocked salmon, a silver-toned species that frequently jumps when you set your hook. And while there’s plenty of wading access below the parking areas at the Routes 6 and 15 bridge, a drift boat or raft is the safer option amidst the season’s snowmelt-fed water flows.

Tips from a Pro: Wayne Plummer of Northern Pride Lodge (207-695-2890, northernpridelodge.com )

Start with a smelt streamer pattern in mid-May, work in sucker spawn imitations as the weeks pass, and tie on blue winged olives when the first hatches start around Memorial Day. And if you just want to net something, the salmon is a gullible target. “If you spook a brook trout, you can figure you ain’t gonna catch him,” Plummer says, “but I’ve had salmon that I’ve seen lurking behind a rock and caught after two or three drives.”

Grab A Bite: Stress Free Moose Pub

Meat loaf grilled cheese? Check. The humorous head of a zebra-moose mounted on the wall? Check. 65 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, 207-695-3100, stressfreemoose.com

The 57-plus miles of the Battenkill River are hallowed waters for fly-fishing east of the Mississippi. On the Vermont side of the border, the fish population is entirely wild — the only fish stocking occurs in New York — which means early-season patience, skill, and luck can bring in a wily, wary behemoth of a German brown trout topping 20 inches. Follow Route 313 West to West Arlington, park by the 19th-century covered bridge and steepled church, and take in a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting — the artist’s old farmhouse is across the river, in fact — and fish your way upstream or downstream.

Tips from a Pro: Martin Oakland of Quill Gordon Bed and Breakfast (802-375-6339, quillgordon.com )

Use streamers in mid-April through early May, then switch to Hendrickson dry flies when the hatch begins around Mother’s Day. And after a thunderstorm, when muddy waters clear up and take on a copper complexion, that’s your best chance to bag a big one. Oakland says, “It doesn’t happen very often, but [the last time it did] I caught three fish over 20 inches, and two others swam right up into the net.”

Grab A Bite: Mulligans

Eat beer-battered fish and chips in a cozy Irish pub, then take a quick walk over to the massive Orvis store just up the street. 3912 Route 7A, Manchester, 802-362-3663, mulligans-vt.com

NEVER TRIED FLY-FISHING? DIP YOUR TOE IN THE WATER IN 5 EASY STEPS:

1. Get a fishing license (every state in New England sells short-term nonresident passes) and learn local regulations on what you can catch and keep. Ever-changing water flows can be hazardous, so consult h2oline.com or call ahead for current conditions.

2. Buying entry-level essentials — rod, reel, weighted line, a few flies — can cost $200 or more, but a guide will likely loan everything you need.

3. Casting — making a fake bug hit the water like the real thing — is hard to learn through YouTube. Sign up for a free Fly Fishing 101 class at an Orvis store, or get a crash course from your guide.

4. The best fly for any given stream changes constantly. Contact a local fly shop or guide for up-to-date advice.

5. On the water, look for seams where slow and fast currents meet: fish hide in the former and feed in the latter.

* Official COVID-19 guidance changes frequently. Check state and local regulations before traveling.

Jeff Harder is a writer based in Connecticut. Send comments to [email protected].

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10 Top Destinations for New England Trout Fishing

If trout fishing in moving water is your passion, then you're in luck this month. Water levels typically stabilize this month, making it possible to get your boots wet and reach productive honey holes. Water temperatures are also perfect for insect activity, and other foods are also readily available. The trout are hungry and willing to cooperate.

Simply put, it doesn't get any better than this!

A HIDDEN GEM IN RHODE ISLAND

In the Fairbanks Corner area of Coventry the Moosup River passes beneath Route 14 and offers good fishing opportunities for the next 3 1/2-miles downstream to the Connecticut border.

About halfway down, the Moosup turns west and except for a short stretch at the elbow, both banks are within the Nicholas WMA. At no point can the Mossup River be considered large, but its intimacy, ample supply of protected and shaded pools, seepages and other holding areas are a major part of its charm.

The Moosup River is managed as a Designated Trout Water, which means it is stocked at various times through the season, generally with a mixed bag including brook, brown and rainbow trout. Anglers should have no trouble catching fish. Most trout will run 10 inches or under but larger examples, including some holdovers, are quite possible in the deeper pools and runs.

Fly fishermen should try dry patterns such as the Adams, Light and Dark Cahills and Hendricksons, to name but a few. The Moosup also has a good supply of forage fish so fishing below the surface with small Black-Nosed Dace, muddlers, Woolly Buggers and the like, as well as small Mepps-like spinners and worms should do well.

On the west side of the Route 14 bridge a road heads south and leads to an abandoned railroad bed paralleling the north bank of the stream to the state line. Access is also possible on the east side using the Lewis Farm Road off Route 117south of Fairbanks Corner. At Nicholas Road, head west to a dirt road heading north. This route requires a hike to the river but it can be well worth the effort.

Video That May Interest You

Fore more information on trout fishing in Rhode Island visit www.dem.ri.gov .

CONNECTICUT'S PREMIER TROUT MANAGEMENT AREAS

Trout are the most sought-after gamefish species in Connecticut. To keep up with the angling demand, the Department of Environmental Protection stocks 700,000 to 800,000 trout prior to the spring opener and during the season. A fair percentage goes into the state's Trout Management Areas (TMAs).

The West Branch TMA was established in 1988 and has been governed under strict catch-and-release rules ever since. All forms of angling are permitted but barbless hooks must be used. The section gets its share of stocked browns and rainbows and with high survival rates of the stocked fish (up to 35 percent) anglers should find plenty of trout and some of them will approach 20 inches in length.

The West Branch TMA starts about 1 mile upstream of the Route 318 bridge in Pleasant Valley and runs downstream 4 miles to the Route 219 bridge in New Hartford.

The second, or lower, TMA starts in Collinsville and runs 3 miles downstream to the Route 4 bridge. The stretch is characterized by large boulders and deeper pools, making it a challenge to wade but also water that is capable of holding big fish. All methods of angling are allowed and there is a daily limit of two fish with a minimum length of 12 inches.

Both TMAs see some prolific hatches. Dry fly offerings this month should include the Hendrickson and Red Quill, March Brown, the Green and Golden Drakes and Light Cahill, in sizes from 18 to 10. A host of nymphs and wet flies also do quite well.

For anglers who pursue trout with spinning rods, the Original Rooster Tail from Worden's, sizes 1/8 and 1/4-ounce, in chartreuse, flame and rainbow colors are excellent choices. The plain or dressed Deep Runners, Aglia Streamer and Marabou spinners from Mepps also do extremely well.

For a more comprehensive list of productive offerings, and what's working at the time of their visit, anglers should check in with one of the local fly and tackle shops. While there, pick up a copy of "A Guide to Fishing the Farmington River" put out by the Farmington River Angler's Association. The guide gives a description of the various pools, access points with maps, provides a list of recommended flies, lures and baits and other information that will prove most helpful.

For more information visit www.ct.gov.dep .

TWO GET-AWAY SPOTS IN MASSACHUSETTS

Massachusetts anglers looking to get away from the crowds and those who prefer intimate water should take a look at some of the state's small trout runs. A good place to start is the Green River in the rolling hills north of Greenfield in Franklin County.

To find the river take Exit 26 off I-91 and head west on Route 2, the Mohawk Trail. The first right will be Colrain Road leading to Green River Road. After a short drive the Green River Road bears left and turns to dirt; this is the one you want. From that point the road travels to West Leydon through Stewartville and into Vermont, paralleling the river much of the way, a distance of over 8 miles.

Above West Leydon the river is small and typically freestone in nature, but holds pan-sized wild brook trout in its deeper pools. While never a large river, below that point the Green grows and is a mixture of pocket water, rapids, riffles and deep pools holding stocked rainbows, brookies and a few browns, some in the 10- to 12-inch range.

The Green is managed as a major river, which means the daily bag limit is three trout. The fish are willing takers of bright wet flies and small streamers as well as small spinners and worms in the deeper runs and pools.

Just to the west and running in the same north-to-south direction, the North River and its West and East branches in Shelburne and Colrain are also worth a visit. Like the Green River, these runs are not large, and they become increasingly smaller as you travel upstream, but each offers a pleasant mixture of free-flowing riffles, short rapids, pocket water and pools of various depths.

From Route 2 in Shelburne Falls take Route 112 north towards Shattuckville. About one mile before you get there, the North River Road heads west and crosses the North River. Take some time to fish downstream, especially where the North River meets the Deerfield River, with a 1/4-ounce Rooster Tail or Aglia spinner. There is some interesting water here that holds some large brown and rainbow trout.

Route 112 parallels the North River for another 4 miles to Griswoldville and there is good fishing and access all the way. The West and East Branches diverge at this point and Route 112 continues another 8 miles along the East Branch through Colrain and Elm Grove to the Vermont border, while the West Branch parallels Adamsville Road for at least 8 miles to its source in Heath. Both branches hold brook and rainbow trout and are stocked annually.

All types of angling are allowed and the fish do not appear overly selective so have some fun! There is no minimum length limit but the daily bag limit on the North and West Branch is three fish.

It should also be noted starting this year lead sinkers less than 1-ounce are prohibited in all freshwaters of the state.

For more information on trout fishing in Massachusetts visit www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw .

GO WILD IN THE GREEN MOUNTAINS

The Green Mountain National Forest takes in a large chunk of southern and central Vermont and is blessed with dozens of small headwater streams, too many to individually name here, but all contain wild brook trout. Most of the fish caught will be small, under 10 inches, but they are always hungry and willing takers, scrappy on the end of the line and purely native.

To fully enjoy and appreciate these bastions anglers should be get away from roads and do some bushwhacking. A short distance upstream or down will put anglers in areas that rarely see a fishing line. Go prepared however. Carry a lunch, drinking water, a map and always let someone know where you're headed and what time to plan to return.

For the less adventurous many of these headwaters parallel or cross beneath highways, county roads and especially forest access roads maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. The Delorme Vermont Atlas and Gazetteer is a good way to find interesting runs but a partial list will be found on the Green Mountain National Forest web site at www.fs.usda.gov/greemountain .

Detailed maps showing the forest's road system, hiking trails and waterways with information on camping can also be ordered or downloaded at that web site.

Keep in mind, a Vermont fishing license is required to fish within the national forest and while all forms of angling are allowed on most streams, be sure to check the current Guide to Hunting, Fishing & Trapping for regulations governing specific waters, especially those dumping into major rivers under special regulation.

For more information visit http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/ .

WHITE MOUNTAIN TROUT

At Glen on Route 302 north of North Conway the Ellis River enters the Saco River. From there the Ellis travels some 14 miles along Route 16 to the base of Mount Washington. The Ellis offers good access and angling for both wild and stocked brook trout and rainbows in a myriad of free-flowing, gin-clear rapids, riffles, pocket water and pools. Don't expect anything large. Most specimens run under 10 inches, but they are generally cooperative and will keep most anglers using bright attractor flies or worms attached to silver or gold spinners more than happy.

At Jackson, near the covered bridge, the Ellis is joined by the Wildcat River, and downstream to Route 302 is fly fishing only. Try dry fly offerings like the Red Quill, Henryville Special, Grey Wulff or something matching whatever is emerging. For subsurface fishing, the Hornberg, Muddler, Dark Cahill, Blue Dun do well, as do various mayfly and caddis nymphs. Don't overlook the water below Goodrich Falls downstream to the Saco River, where some brown trout are possible.

If moving water is not your cup of tea their are several dozen trout ponds in the forest. Some are accessible by vehicle but the best angling will be found after a short hike. Some even have shelters for overnight stays. Try Sawyer Pond in Livermore, Falls Pond off the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) near Rocky Gorge and Mountain Pond or Province Pond, both in Chatham. Be sure to check the fishing regulations since they do vary, but all these ponds contain brook trout receptive to a host of flies and lures.

For more on fishing the White Mountain National Forest visit www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/white_mountain .

For more information on regulations and trout fishing in general visit www.wildlife.state.nh.us .

A GOOD SPOT ON THE KENNEBEC

In the Town of Bingham the Kennebec River flows from the bottom of Wyman Dam, creating perhaps the best tailwater fishery in Maine. The self-sustaining rainbow trout population is the primary target of anglers here, because some of the fish are best measured in pounds rather than inches. Although rainbows get the most focus from anglers, brook trout and landlocked salmon are also a possibility.

Good fishing starts near the dam. Wading options are limited but as you move downstream towards Bingham wading is less problematic. For those who like to get their feet wet the best water starts at the mouth of Austin Stream behind the old mills and continues downstream to the braided islands behind the Gadabout Gaddis airport. Pay special attention to the deeper water, riffles and eddies around and below the islands.

Keep in mind that Austin Stream itself up to the Route 16 bridge is managed as a "Kid's Only" fishing area, and this stretch of river from Wyman Dam to the impoundment in Solon is restricted to flies and artificial lures only.

For flies, streamers like the Gray and Black Ghosts, Nine-Three and Maynard's Marvel are good when the water is running high. Humpies, Wulffs, Blue-Winged Olives, Quill Gordons, March Browns, Hendricksons, Light and Dark Cahills in dry, wet and nymph variations are popular. For lures, try a small 1/12-ounce or 1/8-ounce Kastmaster, 1-inch silver or copper Williams Wabler or a plain or dressed Mepps Aglia in hot orange, hot pink, copper or gold.

To find this stretch of the Kennebec, take Route 201 north from Skowhegan to Bingham. Route 16 crosses the river just below town and turns south and the Ridge Road turns north towards the dam. Both offer access. In addition, access is also possible from Route 201 near the airport using the Kennebec Valley Multi-Use Trail which travels 7 miles downstream to more productive water.

For more information visit www.mefishwildlife.com .

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Maryland Fishing Report – April 24

Zach Bennett caught this northern snakehead in the Patapsco River. Photo courtesy of Zach Bennett

The weather forecast for the next week promises mild and sunny conditions, perfect for venturing into the outdoors for fishing with family and friends. Trout continue to be stocked each week in the put-and-take trout waters, and a wide variety of fish are active, including the northern snakehead .

Forecast Summary: April 24 – April 30:

Stable, moderate weather this week will make for great fishing conditions to enjoy the variety of fish currently swimming in Maryland’s waters. Main Chesapeake Bay surface temperatures are holding in the high 50s. River temperatures have also risen to the upper 50s and low 60s, although smaller streams and downwind areas will warm faster on a sunny day and can hold temperatures even warmer. Such low salinity areas will be prime areas to look for hickory and American shad as they move upriver to spawn. Keep an eye out for large gamefish ambushing the shad as they move upriver.

Expect above average flows for the Potomac and Susquehanna rivers but average flows for most of the other Maryland rivers and streams. Expect poor but improving water clarity for the Maryland portion of the Bay down to the Bay Bridge as well as the Potomac River down to the 301 Bridge. To see the latest water clarity conditions, check Eyes on the Bay Satellite Maps . There will be above average tidal currents through Tuesday as a result of the full moon on April 24.

For more detailed and up-to-date fishing conditions in your area, continue to check out Click Before You Cast .

Flows at the Conowingo Dam have moderated this week, but waters remained stained. Anglers are seeing the hickory shad runs peaking this week in the lower Susquehanna and Octoraro Creek. Anglers are also catching hickory shad at the mouth of Deer Creek. A few American shad are being caught close to the Conowingo Dam pool. Anglers are urged to bring a variety of colors in their shad dart inventory as well as small gold and silver spoons. Sun conditions and water clarity can have a large effect on color preferences that will attract the attention of hickory and American shad.

Decreased flows at the Conowingo Dam have attracted anglers looking to fish for flathead catfish in the turbine wash. Most are casting heavy jig heads with soft plastics and a strip of gizzard shad for the largest success. Flathead catfish can also be found just below the dam pool and as one moves down the river a transition occurs where blue catfish begin to dominate the catches.

Blue catfish with a mix of large channel catfish can be found from the lower Susquehanna River south through the entire upper bay region to the Bay Bridge. Most of the blue catfish being caught are large and they tend to be spread out along channel edges. Many anglers are heading out in boats with family and friends and enjoying plenty of fun fishing during the striped bass closure. Shore anglers can access various public and private piers and docks along the shores of the upper bay region and its tidal rivers. Sandy Point State Park is a great place to fish for blue catfish for those with light to medium surf fishing tackle at the point locally known as the “rips” or from the jetty near the Bay Bridge.

Cut bait is a popular bait of choice but chicken liver and chicken breast meat scented with various scents including WD-40 are working well. The Maryland DNR website provides a wealth of information on blue catfish , including how to fish for them and how to prepare them for the dinner table.

Fishing for white perch is good this week in many of the tidal rivers and creeks of the upper bay, usually several miles below the spawning reaches. Fishing with small spinnerbaits and Roadrunner type lures is a great option. Bottom rigs baited with grass shrimp or pieces of bloodworm are also popular for deeper waters.

Photo of several fish on the back of a truck

Tailgating with some white perch, photo by Keith Lockwood

Anglers in the middle Bay are finding blue catfish along the channels in the bay this week due to the low salinity values due to spring runoff of freshwater. Locations near the Bay Bridge, Hacketts Point, the Brick House Bar area, down to Tilghman Island and the mouth of the Choptank River. Most of the blue catfish being caught are large, usually from 15 pounds up to 30 pounds or more. Cut bait of menhaden is a popular choice for bait but many anglers are having good success with chicken liver and chicken breast meat cut into chunks and soaked in various scents.

The Choptank River has one of the largest blue catfish populations in the middle bay region and offers anglers good fishing in a more sheltered setting than fishing out on the open waters of the bay. One can fish from boats as small as a kayak or from the shores. The sections of the river from Denton to the town of Cambridge offer some of the best fishing along the channel edges this week.

Fishing for white perch in the tidal rivers of the middle bay region is good this week in several of the region’s tidal rivers. Anglers are having fun casting a variety of small spinnerbaits and jigs in the narrower sections of the rivers. Fishing with grass shrimp or pieces of bloodworm on a simple bottom rig is also an excellent way to fish for them in deeper waters. The Choptank River has recently been a good place to fish with grass shrimp on a bottom rig for white perch. One unfortunate consequence of fishing with small baits are 14-inch blue catfish that keep gobbling up the small baits.

White perch, photo by Eric Packard.

Anglers in the Bay are focusing on catching blue catfish throughout the region and enjoying the catch-and-release fishery for hickory and American shad in the Potomac this week. Fishing for blue catfish has hit high gear as water temperatures warm and the catfish are becoming more active. The hickory shad spawning runs in the Potomac in the District of Columbia waters is peaking this week and American shad will linger a bit longer. Colorful shad darts and small gold and silver spoons are popular lures for those using spinning gear and fly-fishing tackle.

The tidal Potomac River from the Wilson Bridge downriver to as far as the mouth of the river is providing plenty of blue catfish action. The Patuxent River from Jug Bay south to Benedict is an excellent place to fish, and the Nanticoke River near Sharptown is the place to be on the Eastern Shore. It should be noted that the Wicomico and Pocomoke rivers are also holding expanding populations of blue catfish.

Anglers can find good shoreline fishing locations at many of these areas, it will just take some exploring for newcomers. Others are out in their boats and even kayaks in the more protected waters and enjoying good fishing. Most anglers are using cut bait with circle hooks with or without a small inline float and a fish finder sliding sinker rig. Using a bait caster type spinning reel or putting a conventional reel on free spool and the clicker helps a circle hook do its job. Cut gizzard shad, menhaden, or white perch are popular baits as are chicken liver and scented chicken breast.

Anglers are finding white perch in the tidal rivers several miles below the spawning reaches as they head towards the mouth of the tidal rivers and nearby bay waters. In shallower water casting a variety of small spinnerbaits and jigs is a great way to target them with light spinning tackle. In deeper waters a simple bottom rig baited with grass shrimp, or pieces of bloodworm can work wonders when targeting white perch moving down the rivers.

Put-and-take trout anglers continue to enjoy the continued generous stocking of trout in many of the trout management waters. Trout waters in the central, southern, and eastern regions with marginal summer water conditions will continue to be stocked through a good part of May, so anglers are urged to make time to get the family out to local community ponds that are being stocked. Several ponds and creeks in Montgomery and Baltimore counties were stocked recently. To see the latest stockings see the Maryland DNR trout stocking website .

The Susquehanna and Potomac rivers have been experiencing high flows and plagued with stained waters for several weeks now. There is no forecast of rain for the next week so hopefully water flows and water quality will improve. Fisheries biologist Josh Henesy sent us a report from the upper Potomac late last week: “ Water levels are high, but color is fishable and ideal for smallmouth – which should be the most sought-after fish right now. The bass seem to be moving into spawning areas but based on our collections, are still several weeks away from spawning. Water temps are in the upper 50s to 60 degrees, and with this level, color, and time of year, spinnerbaits would be my number one choice!”

Angler Gina Maxwell caught a 34-inch Northern Snakehead in Galloway Creek on Apr 16,Photo courtesy of Gina Maxwell

Fishing for largemouth bass is very good this week in both tidal and nontidal waters. Largemouth bass are in a pre-spawn mode of activity. In the southern, central, and eastern regions, male largemouth bass are preparing spawning beds and females are holding in slightly deeper waters and feeding aggressively. Casting spinnerbaits and plastic worms are two excellent lures to use. Emerging grass beds and sunken wood are two excellent places to target.

Northern snakeheads are becoming active and especially the larger ones. They can be found near any kind of structure or emerging grass beds, fallen branches and brush submerged in the water along shorelines are excellent places to target. Casting white paddletails, chatterbaits with large creature soft plastics as trailers and frogs are very popular lures. Dead sticking a large minnow under a bobber is always a great tactic while casting lures, just be sure to keep an eye on that bobber. On sunny afternoons sun exposed waters are a good location to look for northern snakeheads looking for a little warmth.

The middle to upper sections of the tributary rivers in the upper bay are providing some exciting northern snakehead opportunities. The middle and Bush rivers are particularly good. The tributaries to the Potomac, the lower Dorchester County backwaters and tidal waters throughout the Chesapeake all have a number of northern snakeheads present.

Chain pickerel are providing plenty of fun and exciting fishing and can be found in the upper sections of most all tidal rivers, and nontidal ponds and reservoirs. The thick grass beds of the summer months are forming but there is still plenty of open water to find chain pickerel lurking near sunken wood and similar structures. Spinners, spoons, paddletails and jerkbaits are all good lures to use but consider removing the treble hooks and replacing them with single inline hooks. Chain pickerel have a habit of engulfing baits and often get hooked in the gills which is usually fatal.

Black drum are starting to show up in the surf and surf casters are soaking baits of sand fleas and clams, hoping to tie into one. These are usually black drum in the 15-pound to 40-pound size range and generally make for good eating. A few striped bass are being caught in the surf, but it will be another week or two before the Chesapeake Bay spawners pass by on their trip to New England waters. In the meantime, clearnose skates and dogfish are keeping anglers busy.

Fishing for tautog along the Ocean City Inlet jetties and the Route 50 Bridge and bulkheads has been very good this week. Anglers are catching plenty of tautog measuring over the 16-inch minimum. The daily limit is four fish and catching 3 or 4 legal-sized tautog is not uncommon. Sand fleas and pieces of crab are the most popular baits.

Striped bass are entertaining anglers casting soft plastic jigs and paddletails in the inlet, the Route 50 and 90 bridges. Most come up a little shy of the 28-inch minimum but offer plenty of fun catch and release action and now and then a legal-sized striped bass is caught. There are even a few large bluefish to be found inside the Ocean City Inlet and despite cold water and churned up bay waters a few flounder have been caught in the Thorofare Channel. Tautog continue to be the main attraction at the offshore wreck and reef sites this week. Anglers are catching a mix of medium to large tautog on pieces of crab.

“The woods are made for the hunters of dreams, the brooks for the fishers of songs.” – Sam Foss

Maryland Fishing Report is written and compiled by Keith Lockwood, fisheries biologist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources .

Click Before You Cast is written by Tidewater Ecosystem Assessment Director Tom Parham.

This report is now available on your Amazon Echo device — just ask Alexa to “open Maryland Fishing Report.”

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City Sightseeing Moscow

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City Sightseeing Moscow - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV, in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees.
Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic!

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
Cost: USD $15.00
Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
Cost: USD $8.00
Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
Cost: Free to enter
Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
Cost: USD $5.00
Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for!

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture!

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months. A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov. The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner!

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres.
Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics.

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 – USD $228.00 based on seat location.
Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
This museum is fun for both adults and children!
Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

Television and radio tower in Moscow
Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

Closed on Mondays
Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy!

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided! Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

the red st basils church in moscow on a white winters day

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

man and woman standing in front of main church in moscow

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

red orthodox church in moscow russia red square on a winter day

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

woman in winter jacket standing in front of St Basils Russian Orthodox in moscow on a winter day

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

selfie of man and woman pointing to the Kremlin in Moscow

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

red exterior of lenins mausoleum in moscow russia

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

man in sinter jacket standing in arbat street moscow at night with glistening white lights strung from the buildings

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

people walking inside GUM mall in russia with christmas lights

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in my post about finding cheap flights that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

turned-on chandelier on ceiling of moscow metro

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

group of people walking in moscow red square at night with christmas lights everywhere

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

woman in head scarf hugging bronze statue of angry bear

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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10 Top Destinations for New England Trout Fishing
Try Sawyer Pond in Livermore, Falls Pond off the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) near Rocky Gorge and Mountain Pond or Province Pond, both in Chatham. Be sure to check the fishing regulations since they do vary, but all these ponds contain brook trout receptive to a host of flies and lures.
Winter Fishing on the Newfound River
March 2, 2014 by Benjamin Carmichael. A beautiful winter's day trout fishing on New Hampshire's Newfound River. A few months ago, we booked a ski weekend with some friends. Upon arriving at the cabin last weekend, I found the front entrance piled high with gear: poles, skis, boots, and more. I added my own gear to the pile: an Orvis Helios ...
The 10 BEST Fishing Charters in New England (Spring 2024)
Nearby destinations. Top New England fishing charters in Spring 2024, from US $63 p/p. Best price guaranteed, verified reviews, and secure online booking. 4-12 hour fishing trips for family and friends.
Saltwater Fishing
Fly Fishing Boston Harbor for Striped Bass. July 31, 2022 by: Benjamin Carmichael. It was the perfect night: warm, but not too warm, the setting sun turning the sky progressive shades of purple, pink, and dark, inky blue. The striped bass were out in Boston, and my friends were along the ride. Read More >>.
The Best Fishing for Brook Trout: Trips in the Wilds of New England
In summary, while New England offers vast opportunities for fishing, understanding land access rights and regulations is crucial. Always prioritize respect for the land, water, and property owners. This ensures that the rich fishing traditions of New England can be preserved and enjoyed by all. Top Lures for Brook Trout: 1. Spinners:
THE 10 BEST New England Aquariums (Updated 2024)
THE 10 BEST New England Aquariums. 1. New England Aquarium. They have a beautiful collection of fish, sea life, and a very cool central pool that you can view from many angles d... 2. Mystic Aquarium. ... sea animals including very adorable Beluga Whales, African Penguins and different types of cute seals and sea lions. 3.
Maryland Fishing Report
These are usually black drum in the 15-pound to 40-pound size range and generally make for good eating. A few striped bass are being caught in the surf, but it will be another week or two before the Chesapeake Bay spawners pass by on their trip to New England waters. In the meantime, clearnose skates and dogfish are keeping anglers busy.
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Fly Fishing Boston Harbor for Striped Bass. July 31, 2022 by: Benjamin Carmichael. It was the perfect night: warm, but not too warm, the setting sun turning the sky progressive shades of purple, pink, and dark, inky blue. The striped bass were out in Boston, and my friends were along the ride. Read More >>.
All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Red line takes 1 hour but stop every 500m and and bus stay 10 min at every bust stop what is not convenient at all. Information that provided at guide tour could be more. Green line also has too many stops at New Arbat there are not any point of interest. This day was not possible to reach office through the number that mentioned on site.
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024 Guide)
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024) Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit! Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city ...
Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]
3. Marvel at St. Basil's Cathedral. St. Basil's Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil's Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style.

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