Delaware River, West Branch - NY

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

48

West Branch Angler's Tip of the Week

5/15, Flows are currently at 1340 and dropping. This can be a tricky flow for wade anglers, but a great flow for boat anglers. If you are looking to wade, chose your spots wisely. The river is clear and looking good. This weekend we resume the somewhat normal mid spring forecast with air temps varying from the 60s-80s. A good mix of rain is forecasted for the next several days which should only help the fishing. We have been seeing some good hatches in the right places on the right days. Here on the west the bugs will continue to become more prolific as we move towards June.

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Map of Delaware River, West Branch

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

West Branch Angler
Cross Current Guide Service

5-Day Outlook as of 5/16/26

Buggy weather ahead!

Techniques & Tips as of 5/16/26

The bugs have been getting better as they days go on here on the mighty west branch. Been seeing solid bugs throughout the system. Hendrickson's have been the dominant hatch, as well as a good number of blue quills, olives, and caddis on the right days. If you're not finding fish with their heads up it's a safe bet that they're eating nymphs. Tightline/indicator/dry dropper are all effective ways to nymph right now.

Local Species Available

  • Fish Icon

    Trout

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    Browns and Rainbows

West Branch Angler's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Clousers BLK/WHT/OLV 4-6
Deceivers BLK/WHT/OLV 4-6
Buggers BLK/WHT/OLV 4-6

Clousers

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West Branch Angler's Recommended Gear

Description: About Delaware River, West Branch

The West Branch of the Delaware is widely considered the best wild trout fishery in the East Coast. Cold water released for the Cannonsville Reservoir keeps the water temperatures cold all season. If technical dry-fly fishing is your passion, this is the river for you.

Nearest Airport:

Binghamton Airport (BGM), Binghamton, New York

Hatches:

Hendrickson's, Blue Quill, BWO, Apple Caddis

Best Time to Fish:

Day

Best Stretch:

West Branch

Best Access:

Stilesville, Norboard, Gentlemen's Club, Indian Country, Gamelands, Balls Eddy, Shehawken