Weekend Logistics
Thank you for registering for New York Fish and Hang Weekend. This is an inclusive event where like-minded individuals can connect, empower each other, and have fun. The registration fee is instrumental in offsetting the costs associated with travel logistics, online platforms, the extensive hours dedicated to research, meticulous preparation, and the ongoing correspondence behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Participants fish during the day and hang out in the evenings, with various accommodation options available. The event takes place in Wilmington, New York, from October 4th to 6th, 2024. ** This webpage is a dynamic document, and we’ll continue to update it with additional useful links and information in the coming months. **
All Are Welcomed
Welcome to the first New York Fish and Hang Weekend, a gathering of like-minded individuals seeking connection, empowerment, and fun! Proudly brought to you by iFishiBelong, we warmly invite everyone to be part of this experience. This event is all-inclusive, and we welcome people of all skill levels to join.
Our Fish and Hang format, inspired by United Women on the Fly, allows participants to venture out to fish on their own each day and then hang out and share fishing tales together in the evenings. Whether you lean towards camping, reserving a cabin or hotel, DIY fishing, or hiring a guide, we share resources for all budgets. This event occurs in the beautiful setting of the Adirondacks, near Wilmington New York, from October 4th to October 6th, 2024.
For any questions or if you’d like to borrow equipment, reach out to us at [email protected]. We look forward to sharing this fishing adventure with you!
Event Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the NY Fish and Hang Facebook Group as most of your questions will answered. Otherwise email [email protected].
Facebook Group
Join the Facebook Group to network with fellow attendees, seek advice, and exchange travel and event photos/videos. Co-hosts will share further event details there. Join the Facebook Group HERE.
Live Q&A Session
- Watch the Recorded Q&A HERE
Dates
October 4th – 6th, 2024
Location
This event will be held in Wilmington, New York.
- Wilmington, New York
- Hungry Trout Resort
What's Included
Thank you once again for registering for the 2024 New york Fish and Hang event. Below is a breakdown of what the registration fee covers.
- This exclusive webpage was established specifically for registered New York participants. It includes event logistics, packing tips, fishing details, etc.
- Choice Between a Hat or Tee Shirt ($25 US Value)
- Interactive Live Q&A Session on 8/19/24
- Online Access to the “FallTrout Fishing Techniques” Pre-Recorded Online Course
- Nightly Social Events
- Saturday Private Water Fishing Opportunity (Filled)
- Location & Fishing Research Compiled for Easy Participant Reference
- Dedicated Co-Hosts Focusing on Education, Community, Fun
- Commitment to Support Local Businesses and Highlight Women and Underrepresented Owners and Guides in the Region
- Community Initiatives & Contributions
- 20% Off TroutRoutes Pro Accoun
What's Not Included
- Transportation to and from Wilmington, New York
- Accommodation/Camping
- Meal Arrangements
- Fishing Gear – Equipment Available to Borrow if Needed, Click HERE
- New York Fishing License
- 4hr “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop on Friday 10/4/24 – (Filled)
- Guided Fishing Opportunities and Private Water Access
Tentative Weekend Schedule
Each day is centered on fishing adventures, concluding with social hangouts in the evenings. We urge individuals to engage with each other in the Facebook Group to form fishing friendships and coordinate weekend adventures. The Friday workshop and Saturday guided fishing is sold out, please email [email protected] to be placed on the waitlist.
- Thursday 10/3/24
- Some Arrive and DIY Fish
- Friday 10/4/24
- 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm – “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop (SOLD OUT)
- 6:00pm – 8:00pm – Evening Hang at the HT Tavern
- Saturday 10/5/24 – Social Fishing and Exploring
- Guided Bush Country (SOLD OUT)
- Evening Hang – Tentatively Hungry Trout Resort
- Sunday 10/6/24 – Fish and Depart
- DIY Fishing
"Fishing New York North Country" Workshop Available
The “Fishing New York North Country” workshop offers participants an in-depth exploration of techniques and tactics specifically tailored for the iconic Ausable River and its surrounding areas in the New York North Country region. This workshop is designed for advanced beginner and intermediate anglers. Participants are encouraged to have basic foundational knowledge of fly fishing. Before the workshop, attendees will have access to pre-recorded online classes, ‘Intro to Fly Fishing’ and ‘Reading Trout Water’, to prepare for the hands-on session. No equipment is required for the workshop.
Workshop Topics –
- Ausable River Access Points
- Intermediate Fly Fishing Knots and Leader Set-Ups for Each Technique
- Match the Seasonal Ausable River Hatches
- ABCs of Fly Fishing
- How to Approach the Water for Each Technique
- Searching vs Targeting
- Mending Demonstrations
- Casting Drills for Each Technique
The workshop curriculum is being provided by Fly Fish Instruct.
Social Fishing Day
Experience an incredible opportunity to fish a legendary and remote section of the Ausable River, home to the largest and wildest fish in the watershed. We’ve hired four expert guides, including Rachel Finn, to help you navigate the river, choose the best flies and leader setups, and successfully land your catch. This exclusive opportunity is limited to 12 anglers, with each guide assisting you on 800 acres of private land. We have created two guided options based on your fishing experience and budget. SOLD OUT – email [email protected] to be added to a waitlist.
- For newcomers to fly fishing seeking hands-on experience. Guided day with a 2-to-1 angler-to-guide ratio.
- For those needing guidance on local river knowledge and assistance with landing catches. Guided day with a 4-to-1 angler-to-guide ratio.
Included –
- Cost of Guide, Taxes and Credit Card Processing Fee
- Private Water Access to the Bush Country
Not Included –
- Guide Tip (25% Cash Recommended)
- Travel to and from Wilmington, NY. We can all carpool from the Hungry Trout Resort early morning.
- New York Fishing License.
- Fly Fishing Equipment and Flies (Equipment Available to Borrow)
- Food and Snacks
Travel
Wilmington, New York, is a small town situated in the Adirondack Mountains, approximately 12 miles north of Lake Placid and near Whiteface Mountain.
Airports –
- Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) – 45 minutes
- Plattsburgh International (PBG) – 45 minutes
- Burlington (BTV) – 2 hours
- Albany (ALB) – 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Montréal (YUL) – 2 hours
- John F Kennedy (JFK) – 5 hours
Lodging & Food
In an effort to make this weekend affordable to all, we have arranged a discounted lodging rate with Hungry Trout Resort. Call and ask for Matt to reserve your room today. You’re on your own for food.
Camping
There are several campgrounds near Wilmington, New York, that offer a range of camping experiences:
- Free Camping Near Wilmington NY
- KOA Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain – Located near Wilmington in the town of Wilmington, this KOA offers tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, along with amenities like a pool, mini-golf, and fishing.
- Wilmington Notch Campground – Just 3 miles south of Wilmington, this state-run campground features tent and trailer sites, fishing access, and proximity to hiking trails.
- Draper’s Acres Campground – Situated a few miles from Wilmington, it provides tent and RV camping with amenities such as a swimming pool and playground.
Education Opportunites
- Recorded Q&A Session:
- Watch recorded Q&A session HERE.
- Engage on Facebook:
- Join the New York Fish and Hang Facebook Group.
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer the questions.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity:
- Participate in the “Fishing New York North Country” Workshop.
- Led by Rachel Finn, Heather Hodson and Joanne Hessney.
- Duration: 4 hours.
- Learn More HERE.
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Area Resources
iFishiBelong has initiated research on your behalf and compiled various area resource links pertaining to Wilmington, New York, for you to explore prior to your trip.
- Ausable River
- Lake Placid
- Welcome to Wilmington New York
- Attractions in the Whiteface Region
- Adirondacks Fall Show
- Fall in the Whiteface Region
- 46 Things to Do in the Adirondacks in the Fall
- The Adirondacks Most Breathtaking 30 Minute Walk
- New York Fall Foliage Report
- Keene Valley: Home Of The Adirondack High Peaks
Fishing
Fishing in Wilmington, New York, offers an exceptional experience for anglers of all skill levels. Nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Wilmington is renowned for its pristine waterways, including the Ausable River, which is celebrated for its abundant trout population.
The West Branch of the Ausable River, is famous for its fly-fishing opportunities, with a variety of species such as brook, brown, and rainbow trout thriving in its clear, cold waters. The river’s diverse landscape, featuring pools, riffles, and runs, provides an engaging challenge for fly fishers.
Wilmington also boasts numerous lakes and ponds, where anglers can fish from the shore or a boat.
Water Safety
Wading boots with studs and a wading staff is recommended.
Fishing License
A New York fishing license is required. You can purchase one HERE.
Fish Species
These are the fish species tha you might encounter while fishing the Deschutes River.
Brown Trout
Brook Trout
Rainbow Trout
Hire a Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. If you need last-minute gear and professional guidance for the weekend, check out these two local fly shops where you can find everything you need and hire a knowledgeable fishing guide.
The Fish and Hang events require some preparation and proactive involvement. This website was created to assist you in organizing and planning your trip effectively.
River maps
- Fly Rods – 4wt – 6wt.
- Rod Length – Average 9’.
- Fly Lines – Typical Floating Fly Lines
- Leader – 9’ 4x – 6x
- Tippet Spools – 4x – 7X
Borrow Equipment
Each angler is expected to bring their own equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by September 28th if you wish to borrow equipment.
The Ausable River is a freestone system known for its high gradient, which can cause conditions to change quickly. Therefore, always be mindful of the weather. Wading in the Ausable can be particularly challenging due to its uneven and slippery riverbed. For the best traction, felt soles are generally recommended, especially studded felt soles. Rubber soles are just okay, but rubber soles with studs are much better. Additionally, using a wading staff is essential for maintaining balance and safety while navigating the river.
Clothing and Equipment
- Waders are recommended for safety.
- Studded felt or studded rubber boots are best as rocks can be very slippery and uneven.
- Everyone should have a pair of polarized sunglasses for eye protection and to see fish and your obstacles under water.
- It’s always recommended to bring a rain jacket.
Suggested Flies
- Dry Flies
- Attractor Patterns
- Adams – #14-18
- Ausable Wulff/Bomber #12
- Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) – #16-22
- Chubby Chernobyl – (Gold, Purple, Black) #8-12
- Elk Hair Caddis (Grey, Green and Orange) – #12-16
- Isonychia Patterns (Slate Drakes) – #10-12
- Mahogany Dun – #14-16
- October Caddis – #8-12
- Rusty Spinner – #12-16
- Emergers
- Ant Patterns – #14-18
- Beetle Patterns – #12-16
- CDC Comparadun – #14-18
- RS2 – #18-22
- Soft Hackles
- Nymphs
- Ausable Ugly Fly
- Girdle Bugs
- Hare’s Ear Nymph – #12-16
- Perdigon Nymphs
- Pheasant Tail Nymph – #14-18
- Prince Nymph – #10-16
- Zebra Midge – #18-22
- Streamers
- Clouser Minnow – #4-8
- Grey Ghost – #6-10
- Sparkle Minnow – #4-8
- Woolly Bugger – #4-10
Ausable River Hatch Chart
Leader Examples
Local Fisheries
Safety Policy
For the safety of all, if you show any signs of illness or have a positive covid test result, kindly remain at home. Stay informed about the weather, dress for the occasion, and stay alert to any shifts in water conditions.
Weekend Disclaimer
We aim for a memorable weekend, emphasizing community for everyone present. Educational resources will be available, and connections among anglers encouraged. We expect a drama-free setting and clarify that while co-hosts will be around, the weekend is self-guided. Attendees can coordinate fishing plans with other participants via the Facebook Group. This is not an exclusive women’s weekend. Partners, friends, and family are encouraged to join.
Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the NY Fish and Hang Facebook Group as most of your questions will answered. Otherwise email [email protected].
