West Branch Angler & Resort

"West Branch Angler & Resort, located in Hancock, New York, offers a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those interested in fly fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains. Location and Setting: The resort is situated at the wooded base of the Catskills, along the banks of the west branch of the Delaware River. This location provides guests with direct access to some of the best wild trout fishing in the Eastern United States​​. Accommodations: West Branch Angler Resort features upscale log cabin accommodations. These cabins are set in a sprawling 300-acre park-like environment along a 2-mile private section of the West Branch of the Delaware River. The resort is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Catskills,” offering guests breathtaking mountain scenery and grounds. There are 30 private cabin rentals available, each rich in amenities and designed for comfort​​​​​​. Fishing and Outdoor Activities: As a fly fishing resort and shooting preserve, the West Branch Angler offers 26 luxury cabins on 200 acres of beautiful mountain scenery. Guests have access to 3 miles of private catch and release water on the West Branch of the Delaware River. Options for fishing include fishing the river at the resort, going on a guided river trip with professional guides, or trying fly fishing at their facilities​​. As an avid fly fisherman, I have had the pleasure of visiting West Branch Angler & Resort at least dozens of times, each visit etching a unique and cherished memory in my mind. My experiences at the resort span different times of the year, and what stands out is how each visit, irrespective of the season, has been nothing short of incredible. Even on the most challenging fishing days, when the river seemed more like a puzzle than a peaceful retreat, the resort has always offered an unmatched experience. In my opinion, it is the nicest resort on the Delaware River. One aspect that significantly enhances the fishing experience here is the fully-equipped fly shop. The guides, knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, have always been ready to lead the way, sharing tips and techniques that have enriched my fly fishing journey. The convenience of renting a drift boat at the resort is another feature I greatly appreciate. It allows for an immersive fishing experience, letting me explore different parts of the river at my own pace. After a long day of fishing, the pull-out at the resort is a welcome facility, making the end of the day as smooth and hassle-free as its start. The West Branch of the Delaware River has become one of my favorite rivers in the world to fish. Its serene beauty, coupled with the abundant opportunities it offers for fly fishing, draws me back year after year. Each visit to the West Branch Angler & Resort has become a part of a cherished ritual, eagerly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyed. The resort has become more than just a destination for me; it is a sacred place that holds some of my fondest fishing memories. Whether it's the tranquility of the river, the thrill of the catch, or the comfort and hospitality of the resort, every visit has been a unique and fulfilling adventure. It's a place where I not only connect with nature but also reconnect with myself, finding peace and excitement in equal measure. The West Branch Angler & Resort isn't just a spot on the map; it's a significant part of my life's journey, woven into the fabric of my passion for fly fishing."

"The resort: The accommodations are absolutely stunning. With many cabins being located steps from the West Branch of the Delaware River, and others with amazing landscape views, you can’t go wrong. The cabins have everything you need and nothing you don’t. If you aren’t a fisherman (and have no desire to become one) I still highly recommend staying here. Every morning we were joined by herds of deer, Bald Eagles, trout jumping in the river and so much more. The cabins are clean and up to date. The restaurant/Bar: This is where you start to feel the personal touch, the attention to detail. After the first night the extremely attentive waitstaff (that word is too official as they quickly become friends) tend to your every want/need. They pay attention to what you like and capitalize on that. They suggest options that always seem to be a home run. At a lodge type setting you expect the food to be “good”. The Chef and staff in the kitchen far exceed good. The food is absolutely amazing. This is not your usual high-volume food. Each dish is cooked to perfection. I would recommend one or two meals, however, I can’t narrow it down, it’s all amazing. If you drink Bourbon, there is no other place to go, but to the West Branch Bar (more to come on this in a few). The bar downstairs has an amazing friendly and inviting vibe that is further enhanced, once again, by the staff. This Fishing: This is what it is all about. Fishing the West Branch isn’t easy. The staff at the shop will tell you that, the guides will tell you that….yet, seemingly they still get you on the fish. Many, many years ago I was a self-taught fly-fisherman, which translates into many bad habits and pretty much an inability to catch fish with a fly rod. With the help of the guides (I had the opportunity to fish with 3 of them), I was able to net several amazing trout in the span of a few hours. The guides, don’t treat you like an idiot who doesn’t know how to fish. They take the time to explain everything. They tell you the how, and more importantly the why, you do things. They patiently dodge your flies and fly line all while smiling and ensuring you that you are doing great. These guides are top notch and spend hundreds of days on these technical fishing waters. If anyone can get a fish on the end of your line, it’s this crew. If you are a real pro, they can just as happily guide the boat to the hot spots. They cater to what you need/want. I haven’t named any of the star employees for 2 reasons. The first being is that they are ALL amazing. I truly mean that. There isn’t one person that we came across that we didn’t enjoy talking with. There wasn’t one staff member that acted in an unprofessional manner. Everyone is there to help ensure that your stay is the best that it can be. The second reason is I wouldn’t want to leave anyone out. As a general rule, I am horrible with remembering names. After staying here for a few days, there are very few names of the staff I don’t know. How is it possible that ALL the employees are truly amazing top notch, non-disgruntled, genuine people? I think the simple answer is one of the owners, Matt. Matt is the type of guy who you just want to hang out with. Take away the fishing, the bourbon, the resort, if you saw Matt walking down the street, he would probably strike up a conversation with you about some fascinating aspect of the surrounding area. He is a genuinely good person. He treats his staff like family. Not like the usual “workplace family”, like real family. He extends that same treatment to his guests. My wife and I made a friend during our stay. As busy as he is, he takes the time to talk to people, and more importantly, listen as well. Matt’s knowledge of Bourbon is extraordinary. I thought I knew a little about bourbon, however, listening to Matt talk about bourbon for a few minutes made me realize I know nothing. If bourbon is your thing, Matt is the guy you need to talk to. 5 stars across the board. I cannot recommend this place enough. This has become my family’s go to spot going forward."

"I am rating the fishing experience only as that's all we did. As a first time fly fisherman I was nervous about my lack of skill. Kevin, our guide explained and demonstrated it so well that I quickly learned the basics and actually caught my first fish on a fly rod!"

"First guided fly fishing drift ever for me, went with a buddy who was brand new to fly fishing. Huge props to our guide, Kevin, who got my buddy onto an 18-in brown, and throughout the trip embodied patience, humor, and professionalism, while dealing with the odd tangle, tackle changes, and rowing simultaneously. Can't overstate what a difference it makes being with the right guy. Well done Kevin, and well done West Branch Anglers. I'll be back!"

"This place does a great job. The fly shop is top of the line and they are always eager to answer questions and talk fishing. We've gone mid April two years in a row and while the fishing can still be hit or miss that early, the guides are incredibly knowledgable about the river, they work their tails off, and know the right amount of coaching to make it a great day no matter what. As for facilities, the cabins are warm and clean. Only constructive feedback is that while the restaurant has good food and drinks (and you can't beat the location after a day on the river) they need to tighten up their processes a little and it's a tad pricey. However, I will go back again and again. The whole package is worth it!"