If you’re chasing trout in some of the most scenic spots in the country, national parks are where it’s at. Whether you prefer fly fishing on a quiet stream or casting spinners into a deep lake, these parks have something for everyone. Some spots are easy to access, while others require a bit of a hike, but all of them hold the potential for incredible fishing. Here’s a look at the best national parks to visit in 2025 if you’re after trout.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Yellowstone is the gold standard for trout fishing. With rivers like the Yellowstone, Madison, and Firehole, plus countless streams and lakes, it’s a paradise for anglers. Expect to find native cutthroat, rainbows, browns, and even some brook trout in certain waters. Regulations can be strict, so check the rules before heading out, but the fishing here is top-notch, and the scenery is hard to beat.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
If you like the idea of fishing in quiet, forested streams, this is the park for you. The Smokies have over 800 miles of fishable water, and wild brook trout thrive in the higher elevations. Rainbows and browns are common, too. The park’s streams are perfect for fly fishing, but light spinning tackle works well in deeper runs. Just be ready for some hiking to reach the best spots.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
High-altitude lakes and cold, clear streams make this park a dream for trout anglers. The Big Thompson River and Glacier Creek are great for fly fishing, while Dream Lake and Mills Lake offer fantastic stillwater opportunities. Cutthroat trout are the highlight here, with some brook and rainbow trout mixed in. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially if you’re heading into the backcountry.
Glacier National Park, Montana
The name says it all—cold, pristine waters and wild trout. Many of Glacier’s rivers and lakes are full of native cutthroat trout, and you can even find bull trout in some areas (catch-and-release only). The Flathead River system offers plenty of fishing options, whether you prefer wading in a river or floating a fly on an alpine lake.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah’s small mountain streams hold some of the best native brook trout fishing in the eastern U.S. The park’s remote feel makes it a great place to escape the crowds while enjoying fantastic fishing. Brook trout dominate the streams, but some waters also hold wild rainbows. Bring a lightweight fly rod and be ready to hike, because the best spots require a bit of effort to reach.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
If you don’t mind hiking into the backcountry, North Cascades offers incredible alpine lake fishing for wild trout. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are common, and some lakes even have brook trout. The remoteness of the park means less fishing pressure, and the crystal-clear water makes for a stunning backdrop.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia might not be the first place that comes to mind for trout fishing, but it’s got some hidden gems. The park’s lakes and streams hold brook trout, and there are even some landlocked salmon in nearby waters. Fishing here is best in the spring and fall when the water is cooler, and the scenery—especially in autumn—is unbeatable.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton is another fantastic trout fishing destination. The Snake River is famous for its native cutthroat trout, and the lakes within the park—like Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake—hold a mix of trout species. Whether you prefer wading in a river or fishing from a boat, there’s plenty to explore.
Olympic National Park, Washington
From mountain lakes to coastal rivers, Olympic National Park has it all. The Hoh and Quinault Rivers are known for their trout and steelhead, while the park’s alpine lakes hold wild rainbows and brook trout. If you like variety and the chance to fish in a temperate rainforest, this park should be on your list.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California
These parks are home to some incredible high-altitude trout fishing. Golden trout—California’s state fish—can be found in remote mountain streams and lakes. Brook and rainbow trout are also common. Be prepared for some hiking, but the reward is pristine fishing in one of the most scenic places in the country.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
