Summary of Top Fishing Resorts
Is your or your partner’s idea of heaven standing hip-deep in water? Then tell him or her to fix the plumbing! (Just kidding.) Near and far, these are the USA’s top resorts for fishing vacations where those who love the sport can indulge their piscine passion:
Montana: Resort at Paws Up
An unconventional resort in the Montana wilderness that popularized the “glamping” trend, the Resort at Paws Up is an angler’s retreat located within the golden triangle of western trout fishing. The Cliffside and Pinnacle Camps both have honeymoon tents; even unmarried guests who bunk in one of them will revel in the mix of nature, luxury, and romance.
New York: Emerson Resort & Spa
Situated in the Northern Catskills, two hours from New York City and across from the stocked Esopus Creek trout stream, the Emerson is an upstate New York gem and an oasis of tranquility. In the nearby town of Phoenicia, you can gather all the gear you need, and the Phoenicia Library’s Jerry Bartlett Memorial Angling Collection offers valuable resources celebrating Catskill trout fishing heritage. Non-anglers can enjoy the resort’s spa or explore nearby Woodstock, renowned for its arts and shopping scene.
New York: Lake Placid Lodge
Recognized as one of only two properties in New York state endorsed by Orvis, Lake Placid Lodge is a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux group, offering superior accommodations and exceptional cuisine. Guests can enjoy a lakeside one-bedroom suite, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and deep soaking tub, ensuring a relaxing fishing getaway.
Florida: Cheeca Lodge
In the Florida Keys, the sportfishing capital of the world, eco-friendly Cheeca Lodge boasts 1,200 feet of picturesque palm-fringed beach. The resort arranges fishing and diving trips for guests, whether they wish to pursue big game fish in blue water or stalk snook in the backcountry. Those desiring a leisurely fishing vacation can simply cast a line from the resort’s 525-foot fishing pier. Cheeca also hosts the annual Presidential Sailfish Tournament every January.
Idaho: Wapiti Meadow Ranch
Comfortable and budget-friendly, Wapiti Meadow Ranch is conveniently situated near a tributary of the South Fork of the Salmon River, a major spawning ground for Chinook salmon. Beyond offering fly fishing instruction, this log-cabin resort ensures guests experience other delightful vacation pleasures, including horseback riding, wildlife tours, photography, nature walks, and more.
Georgia: The Cloister at Sea Island
This Forbes Five-Star complex includes the mansion-like Cloister, the manor-like Lodge, the casual Inn, the privacy of the Cottages, and the seclusion of Broadfield. A legendary retreat known for its Southern hospitality, The Cloister provides access to some of the best fishing experiences on the East Coast. You can fish and crab right off the dock or try Hobie kayak fishing on the salt marsh. Additionally, charter boats are available for offshore adventures, allowing you to catch tuna, marlin, mackerel, cobia, barracuda, or sailfish.
Tennessee: Blackberry Farm
Are you ready to plan an upscale fishing vacation? Absolutely! Blackberry Farm, located within a 4,200-acre estate just fifteen minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains, is part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux group. Its Orvis-endorsed program caters to all skills, providing casting lessons and opportunities for wade and float trips for fly fishing in the state’s most scenic rivers during spring, summer, and fall. Further, Blackberry is a working farm that offers tasting tours of its fields and gardens—showcasing its commitment to sophisticated Foothills Cuisine.
