Free Resource · Updated 2026
The Ellis River flows through the village of Jackson in the White Mountains and is a classic New England brook trout stream. It joins the Saco River below Jackson Falls and is known for its wild fish, accessible water, and beautiful mountain setting. Local fly fishers have fished the Ellis for generations.
Ellis River Hatch Calendar — Quick Reference
The Ellis is a small to medium freestone stream with clear water over a rocky bottom. Wild brook trout are the main draw. The river flows past farms, forests, and the historic village of Jackson, making for a scenic day on the water.
Hatches on the Ellis follow mountain freestone timing. BWOs and Quill Gordons arrive in late April. Hendricksons and Sulphurs come on in May and June. Light Cahills carry into early summer before the river slows and warms.
The Ellis does not have the volume or diversity of larger rivers nearby but offers intimate fishing for wild fish in a quieter setting. Evening caddis and spinner falls in summer can produce surprising activity from larger fish.
See the full New Hampshire Fly Hatch Chart for hatch timing across all of New Hampshire's top trout streams.
Check Conditions Near Ellis RiverWhat to Fish
Ephemerella subvaria
The Hendrickson is the best hatch on the Ellis for consistent dry fly fishing. Overcast afternoons in May bring fish up across the whole river.
Recommended: Hendrickson #14
Baetis spp.
Spring and fall BWO hatches are reliable on the Ellis. The brook trout respond eagerly to these small flies on cool cloudy days.
Recommended: BWO Parachute #18-20
Ephemerella dorothea
Evening Sulphur hatches on the Ellis can produce excellent action in early summer before the heat arrives. Fish the slower runs and pool tails.
Recommended: Sulphur Parachute #16
Neophylax spp.
Fall caddis bring brookies to the surface in September and October on the Ellis. A great way to end the season in Jackson.
Recommended: Elk Hair Caddis #14
Common Questions
Wild brook trout are the primary species, particularly in the upper reaches. Some stocked brown trout are also present on certain sections. The native brookies are the main attraction.
There are several access points along routes near Jackson. Some water runs through private land. The Jackson area has been well-known as fly fishing water for decades and there are traditional access areas.
Summer can be slow on the lower sections as water warms. Focus on the upper river, shade, and early morning or evening fishing. Terrestrials like beetles and ants work well in summer when hatches are light.
FlyFishFinder combines hatch knowledge with live gauge alerts, Prime condition indicators, and real angler intel so you show up on the right day, not the wrong one.
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