White River - VT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

52

Woodstock Inn's Tip of the Week

The White is currently at 3140 CFS as of 5/23 and rising due to the rain received over the last few days. This is a fishable flow for wade anglers in the upper river (above Bethel). Water temps at the start of the day are ranging from low to mid 50's and spiking in the afternoon, particuarly on warmer/sunny days. Rainbow trout spawning is in full force so be mindful of spawning areas redds (oval shaped lighter areas in shallow gravel riffles). These are where the trout deposit their eggs. Sometimes the spawn will continue into June so please leave the spawning trout alone, it’s unsporting to target them and only adds to spawning stress. If you do see a redd you are going to want to avoid walking anywhere near it. Those deposited eggs will drift around as flows increase and decrease until they hatch (typically in June). If you walk on the eggs you are killing future generations of wild trout. With the increase of 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, espically 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 coming soon 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 White River

Water Flow Data

5-Day Outlook as of 5/23/25

Flows are somewhat high and coming up. Keep an eye on the gage! Water temps will remain pretty consistent through the weekend. Weather does look warmer next week which will provide for some great fishing opportunies. Midweek and Weekend updates can be found on Instagram/Facebook at @woodstockfishingguides. THE FLY SHOP @ THE WOODSTOCK INN & RESORT is open daily from 9am-5pm. We are located in our Spring/Summer/Fall location in the Activity Center (located behind the Woodstock Inn & Resort on Cross Street).

Techniques & Tips as of 5/23/25

Local Species Available

  • Fish Icon

    Smallmouth Bass

  • Fish Icon

    Rainbow

  • Fish Icon

    Brown

  • Fish Icon

    and Brook Trout

Woodstock Inn's Recommended Gear

  • Best Fly Fishing Rod:

    3-Weight 10' Fly Rod

  • Best Floating Fly Line:

    Freshwater Bass WF Fly Line

  • Best Sinking Fly Line:

    Bank Shot Sink Tip Fly Line

Description: About White River

The White River is open year-round for trout fishing for Catch & Release with only artificial bait, lures and flies. Important tributaries are closed for the month of May. Check state fishing regulations for more info. White River: From the Connecticut River boundary upstream to the bridge on Route 107 in Bethel. The sections of streams listed below are open to trout fishing year round according to the following rules: Only artificial flies or lures are permitted outside of the open season for trout (2nd Sat. in April – Oct. 31). Catch and release only (trout must be immediately released where caught), except during the open season for trout. During open season for trout, follow normal size restrictions, daily limits and possession limits. The White River is a free-flowing, undammed, 60mile long tributary of the Connecticut River. It begins near the crest of the Green Mountains, flows east through the towns of Granville and turns south along Route 100 through the towns of Hancock and Rochester. The river follows Vermont Route 107 through the town of Stockbridge downstream to the town of Bethel, where the Third Branch enters the White River. The main stem of the river will continue past the Second Branch in Royalton and the First Branch in South Royalton. Brooks will feed the White from South Royalton to the confluence with the Connecticut River in White River Junction, VT.

Nearest Airport:

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

Best Time to Fish:

All day