Backcountry Fishing: The Angler's Guide

Suppose you need to become more familiar with the term backcountry fishing. In that case, the term might evoke images of rugged, untouched landscapes in your mind, and indeed, that's the main scenery of this type of fishing: postcard places with smiling anglers holding big game fish.

So, yes, the focus of backcountry fishing is to be away from the crowds and to fish a bit secluded. This type of fishing has the significant advantage of being surrounded by natural beauty and the many challenges that it can bring. These challenges, when overcome, bring a profound sense of angel joy and fulfillment, a feeling of accomplishment and connection with nature that is hard to replicate elsewhere. 

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to embark on a backcountry fishing adventure in the wild. From choosing the right gear to understanding different techniques, all the way to selecting the best locations! So, let's get started!

Understanding Backcountry Fishing

Backcountry fishing is an impressive angling adventure where you can combine fishing with different outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, kayaking, boating with friends or family, or just going alone.

If you are well prepared, the sky is the limit through various forms of experimentation with techniques and locations. In addition to being far away from the city, noise, and any kind of urban pollution, this is the next significant advantage of this technique.

However, you will indeed need high-quality fishing gear supported with safety gear as a priority, especially if you go alone and in distant locations. It is also essential to always respect the rules for nature protection, i.e., practicing catch and release and respecting the "Leave No Trace" principle, which helps preserve these beautiful areas and ensures a responsible and respectful fishing experience.

By understanding and composing all these elements, your backcountry fishing experience will be calmer but more exciting from the fishing point of view.

Why Choose Backcountry Fishing

Backcountry is a type of fishing for a specific angler's personality: the one who truly and spiritually loves nature and enjoys it. Of course, it doesn't have to be lonely, or you have to be alone, although that is often highlighted as the main advantage. Backcountry fishing encourages curiosity and exploration of nature because it primarily takes place in remote, untouched areas.

Traveling to these fishing spots often involves hiking through forests, paddling on secluded lakes, or navigating remote rivers. Usually, you will fish in very sheltered water areas without such pressure on the fishery, resulting in healthier fish populations and the potential for larger catches. 

Next, you should choose this technique because physical activity improves health, primarily the cardiovascular system, while a peaceful environment reduces stress and promotes mental well-being. 

Fishing in the wild also encourages a deep connection, reverence for nature, and the joy of exploring new territories. It's not just about catching fish; it's about accepting the environment, yourself, and the whole experience, fostering a profound connection with the natural world.

When to Go Backcountry Fishing

With good gear that follows the weather and season, you can go on backcountry fishing expeditions whenever you want. If you prefer fly fishing, spring is a good option because many fish are in the spawning season and are less cautious. 

The benefits of summer seasons are good weather and more accessible travel, while fall is a favorite due to lower temperatures, aggressive fish feeding patterns, and beautiful, colorful scenery.

Winter is risky and challenging but can also open up opportunities for ice fishing and interesting adventures with dangerous allure.

Whenever you decide to go, be aware that cloudy weather and light rain often contribute to fishing success, while extreme weather can cause changes in fish behavior patterns. Each season has pros and cons, and ultimately, it comes down to what you like.

Fish Species Commonly Caught by Backcountry Fishing

Backcountry fishing techniques are related to colder freshwater areas located in remote and untouched environments, and the targeted species are primarily ones that also like fresher waters. Here's an overview of the most commonly targeted species: 

• Trout: Trout are tasty and lively fish, and anglers using fly fishing, spinning, and tenkara techniques usually target them. Species such as Rainbow Trout are known for their keen sense of sight and alertness, which makes them challenging and attractive catches.

• Bass: In most backcountry waters, both Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are popular lake targets sought after for their aggressive strikes and fighting abilities.

• Northern Pike: Species that are predatory fish known for their voracious appetites and sharp teeth, making them an exciting target for anglers. Also, they are often hidden around underwater structures, which makes it more difficult. 

• Panfish: This species includes Bluegill, Crappie, and Perch and is abundant in many natural waters. It is affordable and provides great action for anglers of all skill levels, and there are enough of them in most rivers and lakes that you will never return empty-handed.

• Catfish: Species such as Channel Catfish and Flathead Catfish live in deeper pools and slower sections of rivers and lakes. They live on the bottom and are often targeted using live bait or drifting techniques.

• Walleye: Walleye are prized for being highly palatable. Their specialty is that they tend to be more active in low-light conditions such as dawn and dusk, making them prime targets for anglers willing to fish during those times.

• Salmon: This fish is a favorite of many and is especially prized in distant rivers and streams connected to larger bodies of water. Salmon species such as Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye are sought after and are often caught by fly fishing, especially during their spawning season. 

• Brown Trout: Brown Trout are the pearl of cool, clear streams and high-elevation lakes in the backcountry. They are small, lively, and beautiful fish, which makes them a favorite among fly fishermen and tenkara enthusiasts. They are primarily caught on dry flies, nymphs, and small spinners, requiring a delicate presentation.

Most of these fish symbolize healthy and well-groomed nature, which implies tasty meat and turns backcountry fishing into a perfect nature story.

Essential Gear for Backcountry Fishing

For this type of fishing, you must be protected and safe in addition to the fishing equipment that will support your adventures. Read below about the essential equipment for backcountry fishing.

Rods 

Fishing in nature requires versatile rods that can withstand the rigors of all the situations reached by fishing in remote environments. The following types of rods are most often chosen for such fisheries.

• Ultra Light Rods: These rods have very light construction and range from 4 to 5.5 feet long. They are used for fishing freshwater species such as Panfish, Crappie, and small Trout. They are sensitive enough for presentations in narrow streams and confined spaces and quickly detect the slightest bite.

• Light Rods are a shade longer than ultralight rods, usually in the range of They are versatile and suitable for targeting different freshwater species in the area. They have more casting control than ultralightweight models, making them ideal for open-water fishing. 

• Medium Light Rods: These rods range from 6 to 7 feet long and have a good balance of sensitivity and power. They are suitable for targeting larger freshwater fish such as Sea Bass, Walleye, and Trout. They also feature delicate presentations but slightly more challenging applications, making them desirable for anglers looking for flexibility and performance in various conditions.

• Medium Rods: This is probably the most widely used rod type in backcountry fishing. Typically ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 feet, they are suitable for targeting various species, including Bass, Pike, and Catfish in different natural environments. 

• Heavy Rods: Anglers appreciate them for their adaptability and reliability in different fishing conditions. They will support you in a rugged environment, and with some luck, you will catch the big game fish.

Always consider where and how far you are from civilization or a fishing tackle shop when fishing. Making a wise and thoughtful choice will ensure a more successful catch.

Reels

Of course, you can't use just any reel for backcountry fishing. On the contrary, it has to support the overall construction and rod selection. So, pay attention to the following.

• Spinning Reels: Those reels excel at casting light baits, making them a good option for targeting various freshwater fish. Casting is smooth and precise, and the rotary blinds have reliable pulling systems that can accept different fishing lines. 

• Baitcasting Reels: Baitcasting reels are known for their casting accuracy and robustness and are suitable for targeting larger freshwater species such as Bass, Pike, and Muskies. They are great for fishing around structure and cover as they easily carry heavier lines and lures. Baitcasting reels have adjustable braking systems and strong pulling capabilities and are very effective in rough fishing action. 

• Fly Reels: These reels are designed to hold and manage specialized flies and fly fishing techniques that allow anglers to cast light flies precisely. They feature a large rack design for fast-line retrieval and smooth drag systems for exhausting and landing fish in the fast-moving waters typical of the environment. 

Depending on your outdoor fishing expedition, each reel type offers different benefits tailored to enhance your fishing experience and maximize your success.

Lines

Remember that backcountry fishing conditions are quite challenging even when the weather is nice. That's why it's important to choose strong lines that can handle the challenges of water and surrounding structures.

• Monofilament Line: Made from a single layer of nylon, it is easy to carry, handle, and bond and stretches well. The material is very buoyant, making it suitable for water fishing. It is available in different strengths and colors. However, it is not resistant to wear and UV.

• Fluorocarbon Line: Almost invisible underwater, making it an excellent choice for clear streams and lakes where fish can be easily spooked. It is resistant to wear, sinks faster, and is an excellent choice for deep-water and bottom fishing. Although it is more expensive, its durability and concealment make it a frequent choice.

• Braided Line: Made from multiple strands of synthetic fibers woven together, it is very strong and durable with minimal stretch. Its smaller diameter than other types allows for longer casting. Its disadvantages are visibility and stiffness.

• Copolymer Line: This type is a mixture of various kinds of nylon, thus offering greater strength and less stretch than monofilament. It is sufficiently resistant, sensitive, and easily controlled, enabling excellent performance.

• Lead Core Line: Lead core is almost always used for deep trolling in lakes and reservoirs. It sinks quickly and reaches deeper water where fish can be found. Also, it is segmented into color-coded parts, which facilitates accurate depth measurement.

• Fly Line: These lines are designed to be heavier and narrower to allow light flies to be cast. There are several subspecies and different types of flies, floating, sinking, and intermediate lines, each suitable for different fishing situations.

Each line offers specific advantages and can be selected based on factors such as water clarity, depth, fishing technique, or your experience, which allows you to improvise.

Standard Bait Selection Used for Backcountry Fishing

Since backcountry fishing implies various techniques, the choice of bait is also quite rich. However, it should be remembered that it is essential to use natural baits as much as possible and not to leave them in the water or the environment because the areas where this fishing is practiced are spotless and safe from pollution. Here are some typical live and artificial baits and their uses:

Live Baits

Live baits can be sensitive to everything from insects to more spicy and stronger food, but the advantage is that you can always find them close to home, in river or lakeshore areas. 

• Night Crawlers and Worms: These are classic and safe choices that consistently perform well when targeting a variety of freshwater Trout, Bass, and Panfish in streams and lakes.

• Minnows and Shiners: Minnows are the primary choice for attracting more dangerous predators to lakes and rivers, such as Pike, Walleye, and Muskies.

• Crickets and Grasshoppers: An absolute must-have if you target Bass and Trout during the insect hatch.

Those are usually everyday food for most fish in rivers and streams. Also, you can cut worms, so the smell and the blood can easily be spread through the water, attracting fish that swim in the depths. 

Artificial Baits 

Some anglers use artificial bait as a prime option and never buy or collect live ones, and that is true. Artificial baits are created to emphasize and mimic the best of live ones.

• Spinnerbaits: Designed to imitate small fish or insects and, with good presentation, will do the job for Bass, Pike, and Musky in covered and structured waters.

• Spoons: These metallic, shiny lures imitate injured fish and, with their metallic sheen, will lure Trout, Pike, and Salmon.

• Soft Plastic Lures: They make a variety of natural baits, from worms, grubs, and creatures that mimic natural prey, to be used for Bass, Walleye, and fish in various environments.

• Topwater Lures: Surface lures like poppers, and frogs create a stir, attracting aggressive fish like bass and pike in natural lakes and ponds.

• Dry Flies: They imitate flying insects that land on the water's surface and are primarily used for fly fishing.

Each type of bait is selected for the fish you want to catch, and it is always an excellent option to have as many choices as possible.

Where to Go Backcountry Fishing

Some old advocates of this technique would say that the further away from civilization, the cleaner the water and the healthier the fish. And indeed, there is some truth in that. Although, you don't have to go far to enjoy nature's landscape scenes. Here are the most frequently chosen places:

Rivers

Rivers are quite complex and vary significantly; some sus pore, some faster with different depths, currents, and structures, and of course, fish, which attract a wide range of fish species. In rural areas, rivers often flow through remote, picturesque landscapes where you can primarily catch species such as Trout, Bass, and Salmon.

Streams

These bodies of water are often smaller and more secluded than rivers and are primarily locations for fly fishing and spinning. They have clear, cold water, which is ideal for Trout. It is essential to move slowly to avoid spooking the fish.

Lakes

Remote lakes, often located in remote mountainous or wooded regions, are primarily stocked with Bass, Pike, and Panfish. You can fish from the shore or a boat; the calm waters contribute to safety. If you like camping, the shores of the lake are an excellent choice.

Ponds

These small bodies of water, often secluded, provide an intimate and productive fishing experience. They are usually very rich in species such as Bass, Bluegill, and other Panfish. Because of their smaller size, they warm up faster in the spring and can offer great early-season fishing. You can get to a catch very quickly.

High Lakes and Streams

High-altitude lakes and streams in mountainous regions are top-notch choices for anglers seeking solitude. They are home to Indigenous Trout species that thrive in icy, oxygen-rich conditions. Getting to these lakes is difficult, but it benefits those who enjoy hiking.

Wetlands and Swamps

For a truly unique fishing experience in nature, the marshes offer a mystical and diverse array of fish species and challenging fishing conditions. You can find Bass, Catfish and various fish. You must be prepared to navigate the dense vegetation and shallow waters, which can be difficult, but the abundance of fish makes it worthwhile.

Backcountry Fishing Techniques

The choice of fishing technique you can apply to the backcountry is varied, which is one reason this type of fishing is so tempting.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is an extremely popular technique for targeting Trout in streams and rivers. Delicate and calm, fly fishing requires casting light artificial flies that imitate insects. A specialized fly fishing rod and supportive reels and lines are a must.

It uses rhythmic casting to present the fly on the water's surface delicately. Fly fishing is considered one technique that provides an almost perfect alignment with nature but also requires many years of practice to reach perfection.

Spinning

Spinning technique involves using a reel and rod to cast various baits or lures. It is versatile, suitable for targeting many lake species, and effective for small and large fish. It focuses on long casting and the possibility of reaching fish in deeper or more distant locations. It is important to use spinning rods and reels so the technique is done best.

Tenkara

Tenkara is an old Japanese fly-fishing technique. It relies on a telescopic rod without a reel, making it suitable for fishing on small streams in remote areas. The telescopic rod is exceptionally long, enabling accurate casting in tight spaces and under overhanging vegetation.

The advantage is the simplicity, making the gear accessible to transport and set up. Simple, with a bit of a samurai approach, the tenkara is perfect for backpacking and hiking in remote places.

Baitcasting

Baitcasting relies heavily on using a baitcasting reel and rod, which provide precise control and power to target larger fish in shallow waters. Brakes in the reel system provide better cast control, allowing accurate bait placement near structures or cover where fish are likely to hide.

Live Bait Fishing

As the name suggests, a common technique involves using baits such as worms, minnows, and insects, which can be found or brought to remote areas. The bait is usually placed on hooks with or without weights. The live bait technique is relatively simple and very effective, especially for species that are more difficult to catch with artificial baits.

Drifting

Another visually lazy and relaxing technique is allowing the current to carry the bait or the bait downstream, thus presenting the bait to the fish relatively naturally. Boats generally position themselves upstream and cast the bait, letting it float naturally with the current.

This technique is effective for covering large areas of water and reaching feeding fish along the drift path. Drifting effectively moves waters and can cover more ground than stationary fishing. 

Almost all backcountry fishing techniques rely on fishing as naturally as possible without taking away the passion for fishing and all the gadgets that modern techniques bring, highlighting their unique methods, advantages, and suitability for different fishing environments.

Final Thoughts

Backcountry fishing is creative and easily customizable; for those who like it, it simply cannot be boring! It can indeed be tiring, for some, even exhausting, possibly even dangerous, but with good preparation, everything can be predicted, and every challenge can be answered smartly! 

If you are a fan of this type of fishing and practice it often, we would love to hear your experiences, ideas, and feedback! If you have first-hand knowledge, please tell us everything in the comments! We look forward to reading them!