New England’s Best Kept Fly Fishing Secret? The Upper Connecticut River
Episode 162 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – January 15, 2026
Our destination is the Upper Connecticut River with veteran guide Bill Bernhardt, a 20-year Orvis-endorsed guide and co-owner of Points North Outfitters in Pittsburg, NH.
Episode 162 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – January 15, 2026
Our destination is the Upper Connecticut River—a remote tailwater in far northern New Hampshire that delivers outstanding fly fishing with remarkably light pressure.
In this episode, I’m joined by veteran guide Bill Bernhardt, a 20-year Orvis-endorsed guide and co-owner of Points North Outfitters in Pittsburg, NH. Bill explains why this system fishes more like a Western tailwater than classic New England water—and why it remains one of the region’s true sleepers.
We talk trout and landlocked salmon, seasonal strategies, favorite fly patterns, remote ponds, and the miles of public access that make solitude easy to find for anglers willing to explore. Plus, tales of huge Atlantic Salmon, landlocks pushing 30”, guiding a blind man, and mistakenly trespassing on Ted Turner’s Patagonia paradise.
🎣 Is the Upper Connecticut River New England’s best-kept fly fishing secret? You decide.
With host Steve Haigh
Bill's fly boxes:
And more flies:
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Contact Bill Bernhardt:
- · Points North Outfitters
- · Facebook | Instagram @pointsnorthnh
- · YouTube
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Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Recorded Nov 13, 2025
Takeaways
- Pittsburgh, New Hampshire is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts.
- Bill Bernhardt has over 30 years of guiding experience.
- The Connecticut River offers some of the best trout and salmon fishing.
- Wildlife in the area includes moose and various bird species.
- Fishing techniques vary by season and fish species.
- Pike fishing presents unique challenges compared to trout fishing.
- Dams play a crucial role in the ecology and fishing opportunities.
- Seasonal changes greatly affect fishing patterns and techniques.
- Landlocked salmon can be targeted during specific runs in spring and fall.
- The Connecticut River's geography influences fishing strategies. Spey casting is enjoyable, even if not mastered.
- Fishing techniques vary with seasons and conditions.
- The Connecticut River offers excellent public access.
- Hidden fishing gems exist in New England.
- Fishing success can vary based on angler skill.
- Hatch patterns change throughout the fishing season.
- Confidence fly patterns are essential for success.
- Guiding new anglers requires understanding their needs.
- Sharing meals enhances the fishing experience.
- Personal connections enrich the fishing journey.
