"A River Runs Through It"

Maybe One Of the Most Interesting Sports Museums in New York State

Photo by Greysen Johnson on Unsplash

I am not a fisherman. At all. But I admit, there are parts of the sport that do appeal to me. Early mornings on the river, communing with the fish all around you, casting about for the big one, the trophy. No crowds, only noise is the water. Surrounded by God’s artistry. Fly fishing. Yes, it definitely has some appeal to it.

When I was writing my best-selling book “The Unknown Museums of Upstate New York",” there was a fishing museum I’d heard of that really caught my attention. So, knowing not a single thing abut the museum or the sport, I went for a visit.

It was awesome.

Located in an area that has been called the "richest trout fishing region in the East," the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum tells the story of this ancient sport. There are hundreds of hand-dyed ties to examine, each with an interesting back story to it. And don't forget to walk around the exterior of the museum and inspect the Fly Fishing Hall Of Fame plaques. You might not know many of the names, but one, a top Hollywood star, is on the wall, and a special tribute here was paid to a U.S. president. Think” The Man From Plains,” and the hit movie “A River Runs Through It.

There is much to learn about this sport when touring this museum. It is chock-a-block with vintage fly fishing artifacts, photos, and gear. The docents are all experienced fly fishermen and women. They really make the sport come alive to the uninitiated.

Even if, like me, you have no clue about fly fishing, there are many that do. I would strongly urge everyone to put this museum on your summer bucket travel list. You will enjoy it. And, if you still can’t quite get “Into it,” you have to admit. This museum is located in one of the most beautiful natural settings you can find in Upstate New York. So come and sit for a spell where “the river runs through it.”

The museum is only 5 miles from Roscoe, New York, “Trout Town U.S.A.”

Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum

1031 Old Rt. 17

Livingston Manor, NY

See more, including a video tour of this unique museum, by clicking below.