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Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide minutes from Bradley International Airport and downtown Hartford
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Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide
Richie Mendez is a combat veteran, educator, and passionate angler who enjoys helping others experience the diverse fishing opportunities found throughout central Connecticut. Based in Windsor, just minutes from Hartford and Bradley International Airport, Richie specializes in drift-boat fly fishing trips on the Connecticut and Farmington rivers. Throughout the season, anglers have opportunities to target trophy smallmouth bass, river-run striped bass chasing shad, northern pike, carp, and trout, depending on conditions and river flows. Trips are tailored to each guest's goals, experience level, and the seasonal patterns that make Connecticut’s fisheries so unique.
Fishing from a ClackaCraft drift boat allows anglers to comfortably cover water while learning new techniques, reading water, and gaining a deeper understanding of fish behavior. Whether you’re picking up a fly rod for the first time or pursuing a personal-best fish, every trip is designed to be enjoyable, educational, and memorable.
Orvis is pleased to offer our travel customers access to two valuable services: Global Rescue travel membership and IMG Signature Travel Insurance℠.
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April–mid-May: Trout, northern pike & river-run striped bass Mid-May–June: Striped bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike & carp June–October: Trophy smallmouth bass, northern pike & carp November–December: Trout, smallmouth bass & northern pike
The Connecticut and Farmington rivers provide some of the most diverse fly fishing opportunities in New England. The Connecticut River features expansive flats, current seams, islands, backwaters, and seasonal shad runs that attract a variety of game fish throughout the year. The Farmington River offers both renowned tailwater trout fishing on its upper reaches and productive warmwater opportunities on its lower reaches.
Note: Upper Farmington River float trips require adequate river flows, which are more common in the spring, late fall, and winter.
Half day — $350 Full day — $500
For more information, please visit flippinflies.net.
You’re welcome to bring the gear you’re most comfortable using. A 6-, 7-, or 8-weight rod is recommended for warm water species, while a 4- or 5-weight rod is recommended for trout.
Not required when fishing from the drift boat but recommended during the cooler months to stay warm.