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Adirondack Fly Fishing | Battle Fish Charters
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Tupper Lake, NY, USA
- $80 - $1,100 price range
- Updated Date: November 23, 2025
Summary
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Saranac Flies & Fins
Calm morning fishing on the misty lake.
Beautiful Largemouth Bass catch from the kayak.
Happy young angler with a colorful Yellow Perch catch.
Proud young angler with a nice Bass catch from the kayak.
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Colorful Rainbow Trout catch on the lake.
Impressive Northern Pike catch from the kayak.
Strong Smallmouth Bass catch on the lake.
Fun group catch of Smallmouth Bass on the river.
Peaceful morning kayaking on the misty lake.
Calm morning fishing on the misty lake.
Beautiful Largemouth Bass catch from the kayak.
Happy young angler with a colorful Yellow Perch catch.
Proud young angler with a nice Bass catch from the kayak.
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Colorful Rainbow Trout catch on the lake.
Impressive Northern Pike catch from the kayak.
Strong Smallmouth Bass catch on the lake.
Fun group catch of Smallmouth Bass on the river.
Peaceful morning kayaking on the misty lake.
Calm morning fishing on the misty lake.
Beautiful Largemouth Bass catch from the kayak.
Happy young angler with a colorful Yellow Perch catch.
Proud young angler with a nice Bass catch from the kayak.
Fly Fish Saranac's Hidden Gems with a Pro
Ready to chase trophy trout and pike in the heart of the Adirondacks? Strap in for a half-day fly fishing adventure that'll have you building your own rod and wading into some of Saranac's best-kept secret spots. Guide Andrew Beaudoin knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to share his local knowledge with anglers looking to up their game.
Trip Overview
This isn't your average guided fishing trip. For starters, you'll kick things off by crafting your very own fly rod. Talk about a unique souvenir! Once you've got your custom stick in hand, it's time to hit the water. We're talking 4 solid hours of stalking trout, pike, and bass in Saranac's stunning backcountry. Whether you're a seasoned fly fisher or just getting your feet wet, Andrew's got the skills to make sure you're dialed in on the action. Just remember to snag your New York fishing license before you show up - we want to keep things legit out there.
What to Expect on the Water
First things first - we'll meet up on Lake Flower Avenue, your gateway to some seriously productive fishing grounds. From there, it's all about exploring those off-the-beaten-path honey holes that most tourists never see. We're talking crystal-clear streams, hidden coves, and maybe even a secret lake or two. Andrew's got a sixth sense for where the fish are holding, and he'll have you casting to rising trout and aggressive pike before you know it. Expect to switch up techniques throughout the day - from delicate dry fly presentations for those picky brookies to stripping big streamers for toothy pike. And don't worry if you're new to fly fishing - Andrew's a patient teacher who'll have you false casting like a pro in no time.
Top Catches This Season
Alright, let's talk fish. Saranac's waters are home to some real beauties, and this trip gives you a shot at the grand slam of Adirondack game fish. We're targeting five main species: Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Northern Pike, and Smallmouth Bass. Each one brings its own challenge to the table. Those native brookies? They're wary little devils, but man, hook into one and you'll see why they're New York's state fish. The browns and rainbows can grow to impressive sizes in these parts, often smashing dry flies with reckless abandon. If you're after a real tug-of-war, the northern pike won't disappoint. These toothy critters can top 40 inches and will test your stripping game. And don't sleep on the smallies - pound for pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish in freshwater.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Brook Trout: The jewel of Adirondack streams, these native char are as beautiful as they are challenging. Look for them in cold, clear pools and riffles. They're most active in spring and fall, but can be caught year-round if you know where to look. Brookies aren't typically huge, but a 12-incher is a trophy in these parts. Their distinctive red spots and blue halos make them a photographer's dream.
Brown Trout: These European transplants have made themselves right at home in Saranac's waters. Browns are known for their selectivity and can grow to impressive sizes. Early mornings and late evenings are prime time for targeting these predators with big streamers. A 20-inch brown is a fish of a lifetime here, and they put up one heck of a fight.
Rainbow Trout: Often the most acrobatic of the trout species, rainbows will leap clear out of the water when hooked. They thrive in faster water and are suckers for well-presented nymphs. Spring and fall see great hatches that bring these fish to the surface, making for some exciting dry fly action.
Northern Pike: The apex predator of Saranac's waters, pike are all about the ambush. These toothy missiles love to hang out in weed beds and along drop-offs. Throwing big, flashy streamers is the name of the game here. Pike fishing heats up in late spring and early summer, but they can be caught year-round. Landing a meter-long pike on a fly rod? That's the stuff of fishing legend.
Smallmouth Bass: Pound for pound, smallies are some of the hardest fighting fish you'll encounter. They love rocky structure and can often be sight-fished in clear water. Poppers and crawfish imitations are like candy to these bronze bruisers. Late spring through early fall is prime time, with some of the biggest fish caught as they fatten up for winter.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Look, there's a reason Battle Fish Charters is crushing it in the Saranac guide scene. It's not just about catching fish (though there's plenty of that). It's about the whole package. Building your own rod? That's next-level cool. Exploring backcountry waters most folks never see? Sign me up. And let's not forget Andrew's expertise - the guy's forgotten more about these waters than most anglers will ever know. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your casting, learn new techniques, or just enjoy a day in some of the most beautiful country this side of the Mississippi, this trip delivers. Plus, with a max of one guest, you're getting the full VIP treatment. No fighting for the best spots or feeling rushed - it's all about you and the fish.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're itching to experience some of the best fly fishing the Adirondacks has to offer, this is your ticket. Four hours of customized, one-on-one guiding with a local pro, targeting everything from native brookies to monster pike. You'll walk away with new skills, unforgettable memories, and yeah, a fly rod you built with your own two hands. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't sleep on this. Grab your license, pack your sense of adventure, and let's make some fishing magic happen. The fish are waiting - are you ready to meet them?
Learn more about the species
Brook Trout
Brook trout are a local favorite here in Saranac. These colorful little fighters usually run 8-12 inches, though we occasionally land some 16-inchers. You'll find them in cool, clear streams and ponds, often hanging out near fallen logs or undercut banks. Spring and fall are prime times, when water temps are just right. Anglers love 'em for their beautiful markings and the challenge of coaxing them out of tight spots. They're also tasty if you're keeping a few for dinner. When fly fishing, I like to use small dry flies or nymphs. A local trick is to look for foam lines on the water - brookies often feed right along those edges. Just remember, they're pretty wary, so a stealthy approach is key. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a brookie rise to take your fly off the surface.
Brown Trout
Brown trout are the crafty residents of Saranac's waters, typically ranging from 12-20 inches, though we've seen some monsters over 24 inches. You'll find them in cool, clear streams and rivers, often tucked under cut banks or hanging near submerged logs. They're active year-round, but fall's prime time when they get aggressive before spawning. Anglers love browns for their wariness and the challenge they present. These fish are smart and can be picky eaters. I like using smaller nymphs or streamers, and terrestrial patterns work great in summer. A local tip: try fishing during low light conditions - early morning or dusk - when big browns are more likely to come out of hiding. When you hook one, be ready for a fight. They're known for powerful runs and will use every trick to shake your hook. Landing a big brown is a real accomplishment and something you'll remember for a long time.
Northern Pike
Northern pike are the ambush predators of Saranac's waters. These toothy critters can grow big, with most running 24-30 inches, but we've seen some push 40 inches. You'll find them in weedy bays, near drop-offs, and around submerged logs. Pike are active year-round, but spring and fall are prime times when they're in shallower water. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. They'll hit just about anything that moves - big spoons, inline spinners, or large flies all work well. A local tip: use a steel leader to prevent bite-offs from those razor-sharp teeth. When you hook one, hang on tight and keep your fingers away from its mouth when landing it. Pike fishing's all about the adrenaline rush - there's nothing quite like seeing a big one follow your lure before smashing it right at the boat.
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are a staple in Saranac's waters, typically ranging from 12-20 inches. You'll find them in cool, fast-moving streams and deeper pools, often near riffles or behind boulders. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love rainbows for their spectacular jumps and hard-fighting spirit. They're also beautiful fish, with that signature pink stripe along their sides. Fly fishing's popular, but spin gear works too. I like using small nymphs or streamers, matching the hatch when possible. A local trick: look for seams where fast water meets slower currents - rainbows often hold there to conserve energy while waiting for food to drift by. When you hook one, be ready for some acrobatics. These fish can really put your skills to the test, especially in faster water. And if you're keeping a few, they make for some excellent eating too.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are a blast to catch in Saranac's waters. These bronze bombers typically range from 1-4 pounds, but we've seen some real lunkers pushing 6 pounds. Look for them around rocky areas, submerged logs, and drop-offs. They love warm water, so summer's prime time, especially early mornings and evenings. Smallies are known for their acrobatic fights - they'll leap clear out of the water trying to throw your hook. Anglers prize them for their scrappy nature and the skill it takes to land one. I like using soft plastic jigs or small crankbaits that mimic crayfish. A local tip: focus on areas with current seams in rivers, as smallies often hang out waiting to ambush prey. When you hook one, be ready for some serious action. These fish punch well above their weight class and will give you a run for your money.
