Fishing Season: Year round. Nov. 1 to Friday before 2nd Sat. in April, catch and release only

Black River - VT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

50

Woodstock Inn's Tip of the Week

The Black River is currently at 782 CFS and rising as of 5/23. Water temps are ranging from low to mid 50s and usually spiking in the afternoon. With the increased bug activity recently, nymphs of all sizes have been producing (mayflies, caddis flies, and stoneflies). Steamers (large and small) of all sizes and colors have been consitently producing larger trout, espeally in these higher flows. Pick your days when streamer fishing, overcast days when the water is off color is going to be your best bet. With low and clear water situations your approach needs to be slow and stealthy. Quality drifts are always better than quantity drifts when presenting your fly. Taking time to observe before stepping into the water is crucial. Midweek and Weekend updates can be found on Instagram/Facebook at @woodstockfishingguides. THE FLY SHOP @ THE WOODSTOCK INN & RESORT is open Monday-Saturday 9-5pm, we are located behind the Woodstock Inn & Resort on Cross Street. Call 802-457-5530 or email fish@woodstockinn.com to book a trip or get more info on our program.

Directions open in app

Map of Black River

Water Flow Data

5-Day Outlook as of 5/23/25

Flows are somewhat high and coming up and water temps will remain pretty consistent through the weekend. Weather does look warmer next week which will provide for some great fishing opportunies.

Techniques & Tips as of 5/23/25

Local Species Available Year round. Nov. 1 to Friday before 2nd Sat. in April, catch and release only

  • Fish Icon

    Trout

Woodstock Inn's Recommended Gear

Description: About Black River

One of Vermont’s “Trophy Trout” stocking program rivers. Fish the Black River along Route 131 in Weathersfield and Cavendish, from Downers covered bridge upstream (approximately 4 miles) to the next bridge across the river, the Howard Hill bridge. Brook, Brown, and Rainbow Trout: length limit, none; daily limit, 2 trout aggregate Open year-round from Howard Hill bridge downstream to CT River. Nov. 1 to Friday before the second Saturday in April, open ONLY TO TROUT FISHING (Catch and Release Only) using artificial flies and lures.

Nearest Airport:

Lebanon, NH, Rutland, VT, Boston, MA, Burlington, VT

Best Time to Fish:

10-Dark

Best Stretch:

Route 131 in Weathersfield and Cavendish, from covered bridge near Downer's Corners, upstream to Howard Hill Rd. bridge.

Best Access:

Trophy Section