Are you looking for your next great adventure in the outdoors?
Known widely as the birthplace of fly fishing, Livingston Manor, NY, has plenty to offer by way of outdoor fun for fishing and water lovers.
In this article, we provide you with all the information you need to plan a fantastic fly-fishing trip in Livingston Manor. From where to stay to the best spots for fly fishing in Livingston Manor, we cover everything you need to know to get the most out of your next adventure.
Keep reading to learn all about the birthplace of fly fishing!
Where is Livingston Manor, NY?
Livingston Manor is a hamlet in the town of Rockland, tucked away in the southeast corner of New York.
With a population of less than 1,000 people, Livingston Manor is a quaint destination with plenty to offer to anyone looking for a weekend away in nature. Livingston Manor is located roughly 115 miles (or around two hours) to the north of New York City, making it the ideal getaway for those living in the city.
For flyfishermen, Livingston Manor is of great historic importance.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Theodore Gordon — known today as the “Father of American Dry Fly Fishing” — left NYC for his health and took up a hermit lifestyle in the Catskills region of the state. During this time, Theodore received several dry flies from Frederic Halford, a wealthy British angler who majorly influenced the fly fishing industry with his writings on the sport.
Using the flies from Frederic, Theodore went on to become one of the most influential figures in the history of American fly fishing, exploring far and wide in the state of New York to discover the best fly fishing spots and techniques — including Livingston Manor.
What is Fly Fishing?
Fly fishing is a specialized form of angling that involves a lightweight fishing line and an artificial “fly” intended to mimic the appearance of an insect floating on top of the water.
In conventional fishing methods, a weighted lure or live bait is attached to the end of the line, helping fishermen to cast the line further and sending the line below water to attract its prey. By contrast, fly fishing relies on the weight of the fly line for casting.
A fly can be made from a variety of synthetic materials that mimic insects and aquatic organisms. In addition to the fly, a flyfisherman also uses a specialized fly rod that is longer and more flexible than a traditional rod. Using a fly rod effectively requires a specific casting technique.
The overall objective of fly fishing is to actively imitate the movements of insects and other organisms that fish prey on. Fly fishing is popular in both freshwater and saltwater environments, though it is most commonly seen in rivers and streams.
Though the sport of fly fishing is certainly a popular method for catching fish, its rise to popularity is also rooted in the skill and concentration needed for effective casting and fishing using a fly rod. As a result, fly fishing has become a widely loved pastime that can be both a leisurely activity to enjoy during the warm months and a competitive sport where talented fishermen can show off their technique.
Want to know more about the specialized techniques of fly fishermen? Check out this video on How to Cast a Fly Rod for Beginners!
The Best Fly Fishing Spot in Livingston Manor
If you’re looking for the best fly fishing spots in and around Livingston Manor, we’re here to help.
For a truly unforgettable fly fishing and camping experience, consider staying at Covered Bridge Campsite, located right in the heart of Livingston Manor, NY.
This campground has everything you could want for an outdoor getaway, set in 26 acres of natural beauty and surrounded by more than 500 acres of the Catskill Forest Preserve. Plus, the campground has creekfront campsites so you can stay right on the water for the entirety of your trip.
In addition to creekfront campsites, Covered Bridge Campsite also offers:
- Secluded pines and island sites
- Glamping sites in remodeled vintage-style campers
- RV camping sites
For amenities, Covered Bridge Campsite provides:
- On-site fly fishing
- Hiking trails and waterfalls
- Clean bathrooms and hot showers
When it comes to camping and fly fishing in Livingston Manor, it simply doesn’t get better than at this scenic campground. Book your camping, glamping, or RV site today, or get in touch with Covered Bridge Campsite to learn more about all this campground has to offer.
Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club
As the birthplace of American fly fishing, it’s no surprise that Livingston Manor has its own dedicated fly fishing club. The Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club — or LMFFC for short — is a multi-acre wooded retreat that includes a clubhouse, cottages, and private riverfront for members.
In the LMFFC guesthouse, up to 10 total lodging guests can stay, with the house split into two separate units. This guesthouse provides all the home-away-from-home amenities you could need, including a full kitchen and beautifully furnished living areas.
The LMFFC is also a popular destination for events in Livingston Manor, such as family reunions and weddings. The club can host events for up to 150 guests and provides catering from Audrey’s Farmhouse.
Visit the Audrey’s Farmhouse website today to learn more about the LMFFC.
Final Thoughts
For an exceptional fly fishing experience right in the heart of the birthplace of American fly fishing, start planning your trip to Livingston Manor today.
If you plan on staying at Covered Bridge Campsite, make sure to check out the rules and campground policies ahead of your visit. Check-in for this campground is from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and check-out is at 11 p.m. The campground observes quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Additionally, seasonal RV sites are available at Covered Bridge Campsite for RV owners who wish to spend extended time on the waterfront.
Reserve your spot at Covered Bridge Campsite today to discover all that Livingston Manor has to offer, both for fly fishing and for outdoor exploration.
