Short on time? These easy travel fishing trips are made for anglers who want maximum fishing with minimal logistics. Whether you’re looking for saltwater or freshwater fly fishing domestically, abroad, or within a few hours of home, these travel ideas highlight destinations with direct flights, short transfers, and hassle-free planning. Don’t let the simple logistics imply subpar fishing experiences. You’ll find excellent guides, accommodations, and fishing worth your time and money. These are ideal for long weekends, spontaneous trips, business breakaways, or combining fishing with sightseeing.

One of the best ways to position yourself for a truly relaxing vacation is to start with an easy-to-reach destination. These trips are a great way to catch your breath amidst a busy season of life. Easy logistics can allow you to take more trips throughout the year, increasing your chances at epic experiences – hitting that hatch, that migration, or simply the weather, just right. There’s real value in having something easy and exciting on the calendar. It’s not indulgent. It’s smart. And it’s a great excuse to say yes to more of what you love.

Big Reds Just an Hour from New Orleans

Louisiana – January

January is an excellent time to target redfish in Louisiana’s rich marshlands. The state’s estuaries consistently support a robust redfish population, with trophy bull reds being particularly prevalent during the fall and winter months.

Accessing these prime fishing areas is straightforward. Woodland Plantation, located about an hour south of New Orleans International Airport, offers anglers convenient proximity to productive waters. The plantation’s location allows guests to experience the unique culture and cuisine of New Orleans before or after their fishing excursions.

Pro Tip – booking in anticipation of the Bull Reds is best done one year in advance to secure space and guides, so planning ahead is key in the bayous of Louisiana. That said, cancellations and openings happen, making a last-minute opportunity possible. Contact us for availability and help to secure space. If needed, we can help you pivot to other travel ideas and opportunities.

Bonefish & Permit Just Hours from Home

Belize – February

Belize offers excellent saltwater fishing opportunities in February, attracting anglers seeking species like bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The country’s extensive flats and mangrove ecosystems provide ideal habitats for these sought-after fish. Destinations such as Turneffe Atoll, Ambergris Caye, Northeast Caye, and the Olde Belize River South Water Caye Marine Reserve are renowned for their productive fishing grounds.

Traveling to these fishing lodges is straightforward. For instance, Turneffe Flats Lodge is accessible via a short boat ride from Belize City, making it convenient for travelers. Similarly, Blue Horizon Lodge, located in the heart of “Permit Alley,” offers quick access to prime fishing flats, minimizing travel time and maximizing fishing opportunities. Ambergris Caye is just a short 12-minute flight from Belize City.

Another option is Belize River Lodge, situated along the Olde Belize River, just a few miles from Belize City. This lodge provides easy access to both river and flats fishing, catering to anglers targeting a variety of species.

Easy Island Hops for Serious Bonefish Action in the Bahamas

Bahamas – March

The Bahamas offers excellent saltwater fishing in March, primarily for Bonefish. Occasionally Permit make a showing in March as well, although sitings on islands like Abaco, The Berry’s, and Grand  Bahama become more reliable a little later in the season. The shallow flats around islands like Andros and Abaco provide consistent fishing opportunities. Bair’s Lodge, Andros South Lodge, and the Mars Bay Bonefishing Lodge on South Andros Island are well-known options for anglers looking to access productive bonefishing waters.

Andros Island is vast, diverse, and incredibly productive, offering a variety of fishing opportunities across different regions. On the east side, you’ll find tidal creeks and expansive oceanside flats that flow into the “Tongue of the Ocean.” Inland, there’s an abundance of ponds and creeks, perfect for both wading and boat fishing. The south side features a series of small keys near the island’s southern tip, known for their expansive white sand flats. Finally, the west side represents the island’s remote frontier, with soft-bottomed, muddy flats that are best explored by boat.

March is a good time to fish in the Bahamas. The weather is historically stable, with mild temperatures and little rainfall. Historically, it is the driest, albeit windiest, months. Bonefish are plentiful and active, making for productive days on the water.

Traveling from the United States to the Bahamas is simple. U.S. citizens need a valid passport and proof of return travel, but do not require a visa for stays under 90 days. Many major U.S. cities have direct flights to Nassau, making it an easy destination to reach. From Nassau, travelers can take a short domestic flight to South Andros, followed by a brief drive to the lodge. Private and shared air charters from Florida offer the most convenience for accessing South Andros.

Spring Dry Fly Magic Just a Short Drive Away

Tennessee – April

Tennessee offers excellent fly fishing opportunities in April, with rivers like the South Holston and Watauga providing consistent action. The South Holston River is particularly well-known for its dense trout population and reliable hatches, including the Sulphur mayfly hatch, which peaks in April and brings wild brown trout to the surface. This makes it one of the best times of year for dry fly fishing.

Traveling to Tennessee’s top fishing destinations is easy. The Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) provides access to the South Holston and Watauga rivers.. Many locations are within a short drive from major highways, making them accessible for anglers traveling from across the eastern U.S.

With stable water conditions, active trout, and easy travel options, Tennessee in April is an ideal choice for anglers looking for quality spring fly fishing.

Easy Arrival, Instant Access to the Silver King

Florida Keys – May

May is an excellent time for tarpon fishing in the Florida Keys due to the peak of the annual tarpon migration. During this period, large numbers of large tarpon traverse the Keys, offering anglers exceptional opportunities to target these prized game fish.

One notable destination is the Bahia Honda Sporting Club, which specializes in sight fishing for migratory tarpon during the prime months of April, May, and June. The lodge provides an all-inclusive experience, with accommodations in a Mediterranean-style villa surrounded by a wildlife refuge. Guests can enjoy flexible fishing schedules tailored to optimal tides, guided by experienced local professionals.

The lodge collaborates with top local guides who greet guests each morning, customizing the fishing experience based on weather conditions and personal preferences. The guides provide dockside pickup, so there’s no need for driving.

Fishing for tarpon in the Keys offers a unique experience, with large fish ranging from 50 to 150 lbs found in the region’s shallow, clear waters. Whether guests prefer fly fishing or conventional methods, no prior experience is necessary. The focus is on targeting tarpon, permit, bonefish, and other flats species, with options for offshore and night fishing as well.

The lodge is perfect for groups, families, and couples, emphasizing a sense of camaraderie. Non-anglers are always welcome to join in the experience.

Honest Grand Slam Opportunities Just South of the Border

Mexico – June

June is an excellent month for fly fishing in Mexico, particularly in the Yucatán Peninsula. This time of year offers some of the best opportunities for anglers to achieve a “Grand Slam,” which means catching a permit, bonefish, and tarpon in a single day. The warmer water temperatures and steady weather patterns contribute to heightened fish activity, making species like permit more aggressive and tarpon more predictable on the flats.

For those considering a trip, top lodges in the region include Mayazul Lodge, Grand Slam Lodge, and Casa & Playa Blanca Lodge, all offering easy access to productive fisheries. We’ve heard the travel concerns regarding Mexico, but reaching these lodges is safe and straightforward. Flights into Cancún and Tulum are frequent, and from there, organized transfers ensure a seamless journey to the remote lodges of the Yucatán, where the fishing speaks for itself.

Famous Trout Waters Close to Home

American West – July

July is an excellent time for fly fishing in the American West, with long days, steady water flows, and active trout. This is when some of the best dry fly fishing of the year happens, with strong hatches bringing fish to the surface. The Madison River in Montana offers consistent action with caddis and PMDs, while the Snake River in Wyoming provides opportunities for cutthroat trout eager to take a well-presented fly. With warm weather and reliable conditions, July is a prime time to be on the water.

Reaching these destinations is straightforward, making them ideal for quick trips. Major airports and well-maintained highways connect travelers to key locations, allowing anglers to maximize their time on the water.

Topwater Action on Cold Creeks in the Canadian Rockies

British Columbia – August

August offers favorable conditions for fly fishing on British Columbia’s Elk River, particularly for targeting bull trout. Water levels stabilize after the spring runoff, creating clear, manageable flows that make it easier to locate and approach fish. The warmer weather also increases fish activity, especially in the mornings and late afternoons when trout are most likely to feed. Unlike in much of the lower 48, where bull trout are rare and protected, they are abundant here, giving anglers a unique opportunity to target them consistently.

Anglers have success using large streamers in deeper pools and runs, as bull trout are aggressive predators that respond well to baitfish and sculpin patterns. Swinging or stripping weighted streamers works particularly well in August. Nymphing with beadhead stoneflies or Prince Nymphs can also be productive, especially when targeting cutthroat trout in the same waters. Dry fly fishing is possible and ideal for abundant local cutthroat, however, bull trout are primarily taken subsurface.

Getting to Brooks Creek Ranch is straightforward. Travelers can fly into Kalispell, Montana, Calgary, or Cranbrook and then take a scenic drive to the lodge, or Frontiers can arrange a private transfer. The location is remote enough to offer a quiet fishing experience while still being easy to reach. With strong fish populations, predictable conditions, and simple travel logistics, August is a great time to experience this part of British Columbia.

Fall Colors and Fast Access to Prime Trout Fishing

American West – September

Ask a local Western angler when his or her favorite time to fish is, and chances are you’ll hear, “September”. The start of the school year can keep some travelers homebound and lower the angling pressure. Rainbows, and especially pre-spawn browns, typically put the feed bag on before the cold of winter, making for aggressive trout. There can be excellent dry fly fishing with baetis and Mahogany hatches, as well as lingering terrestrial action. There is often some of the best streamer fishing of the year during this month, with chances at true trophy trout. Or if you prefer, you can find steady action with nymphs.

The setting around many Western rivers is spectacular in September. Aspen trees are turning colors. You might hear elk bugling. The crescendo of summer seemingly culminates in September with a concentration of natural beauty before winter. And depending on your point of departure and ultimate destination, all of this can be experienced with a drive or easy flight itinerary into accessible airports like Bozeman and Denver.

Fall Tarpon Made Easy in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico – October

​October is an excellent time for fly fishing in Puerto Rico, offering favorable conditions for targeting species like tarpon. The island’s tropical climate ensures warm temperatures, making it an attractive destination for anglers seeking productive fishing experiences during this month.​

Traveling to Puerto Rico is straightforward for U.S. citizens, as no passport is required for entry. Major airlines offer frequent flights to San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, making the island easily accessible. Once on the island, anglers can explore various fishing scenarios, from open lagoons to intricate mangrove systems, each offering its own set of challenges and rewards.​

For accommodations, No Name Lodge caters to anglers seeking quality fly fishing experiences in Puerto Rico. The lodge provides access to experienced guides and well-equipped facilities, ensuring a comfortable and successful fishing trip.

Bull Reds and Easy Travel in the Fall

Louisiana – November

You already know that we love Louisiana during the fall and winter months for both quantity and quality of redfish. There are also typically opportunities for big bull reds during these months, as well as other species like jacks, sheepshead, and black drum, if you find variety appealing.

For a unique experience, the Eleven Experience Outpost Mothership Louisiana provides tailored trips for up to four guests from October 1 to December 20 annually. This floating lodge offers guided fishing with one or two anglers per guide, allowing for personalized attention and access to remote fishing locations.

Pro Tip – booking in anticipation of the Bull Reds is best done one year in advance to secure space and guides, so planning ahead is key in the bayous of Louisiana. For anglers interested in the Outpost Mothership, buying the vessel out for 4 or 6 anglers is best. The program is ideal for a group of familiar friends or family.

Big Bonefish, Simple Travel in the Bahamas

Bahamas – December

December offers unique fly-fishing opportunities in the Bahamas, distinct from the spring season. Cooler temperatures on the flats bring larger bonefish into shallower water, making them more accessible to anglers. With stable conditions and less fishing pressure compared to peak spring months, the Fall months can be a productive and rewarding time to fish.

Several lodges provide great fishing in the last quarter of the year. H2O Bonefishing on Grand Bahama Island is easily accessible from the U.S. and offers expert guides familiar with winter conditions. The Delphi Club on Abaco is another strong option, known for quality bonefishing and well-managed flats. New to our portfolio, Soul Fly Lodge, in the Berry Islands, is also an easily accessible property, either directly from the States or routing through Nassau. Additionally, the Mangrove Cay Club on central Andros provides anglers with access to vast, unpressured waters that fish well in cooler months.

With large bonefish on the move and favorable fishing conditions, the final three months of the year in the Bahamas are an excellent time for anglers looking for a productive saltwater experience before the busy spring season.

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