The 2025 season is officially underway. Opening weekend on the Vermont section of the Battenkill has come and gone, and with it, the first signs of spring are beginning to take hold. Winter held on this year—and we’re glad it did. We saw a true Vermont winter: steady snowfall, cold temps, and a landscape that kept its white coat deep into March. It made for some beautiful moments on the river.

*One of my favorites moments was a bluebird day after a heavy snow, the Battenkill draped in white and glowing in that low, bright winter light. It reminded me just how lucky we are to live here.*

Life in Vermont moves with the seasons. You feel them coming—sometimes subtly, sometimes all at once—and right when you’re ready for the next, there it is. That shift brings excitement, anticipation, and a fresh start. This time, it’s spring.

Last season brought hot days and low water. Now, after a proper winter, we’re all watching to see how the river responds. Will it be a strong year for bugs? Will the trout be feeding hard? There’s plenty of speculation, and that’s part of the fun. The truth is, no one really knows. And that’s what keeps it interesting.

*Red Quill - Male Hendrickson Imitation*

First up: the Hendricksons.
The Hendrickson hatch is one of the most anticipated events of our season—a true marker of spring on the Battenkill. They typically begin to emerge in late April and run into early May depending on water temps, and they’re one of the first major hatches to bring big fish consistently to the surface. As one of the largest mayflies we see all year, they bring big browns to the surface in a way that makes every cast count. It's arguably the best time to target these rising fish, and for many of us, it's the hatch that sets the tone for the rest of the year.

Living on the river, we’re keeping a close eye on the water every day. Watching, waiting. It's a funny thing—after months of dormancy, both fish and angler are shaking off the rust. The real challenge with fishing the Hendrickson hatch isn't just technical. It's emotional. You've been watching a fish feed for days, waiting for the timing, the angle, the right fly... and now you’re finally in position. But you're buzzing with excitement just to be back in your waders. The stakes are high, the bugs are coming off, and you’ve got one shot to make it happen.

When it all comes together—when your cast lands just right, the drift is true, and that brown rises—it’s pure magic. And when it doesn’t, or when you blow it entirely, well… that’s part of the magic too. It keeps you honest. It keeps you coming back.

No matter how the season unfolds, we’re grateful to be here. Grateful to guide folks into the outdoors, away from the noise and into the moment. Fishing or not, there’s a lot to learn from time spent on the river. We're excited to share it with you.

See you out there.

— Andrew
Battenkill Outfitters

Season Opener On the Battekill