Planning and going fishing in the backcountry is a rewarding experience...but only if you stay safe and return home. Backcountry can mean a lot of things and depending on where you live, there may be places to fish in the backcountry near you. Backcountry doesn't have to be in the wilds of Yellowstone National Park or deep in the mountains of Colorado, backcountry fishing near you can be as simple as hiking a few miles from the nearest fishing access near you. Here are some top tips for planning a backcountry fishing trip and fishing once you are in the backcountry.

Plan your trip. Using onWater Fish is a no-brainer for planning the best fishing trip. You can go beyond mapping out your trip with our tools, but also plan out what species you want to chase, just how far you will be from a road, the topography of the hike and area, and so much more. Always check fishing regulations, current weather conditions, and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.

Pack appropriately. When venturing into the backcountry be sure to take only the essentials. You want to spend your energy fishing and not hauling gear. So whether you are going fishing for a few hours, all day, or a longer, pair down your essentials. Choose lightweight and versatile gear, and try to take as small a fly boxes possible.

Leave it better than you found it. Pack out any waste, pick up any litter, and just be aware that the backcountry can be a special place to go fishing so help to keep it that way for other anglers. The Leave No Trace principles are essential for backcountry fishing trips.

Think like a predator and use stealth. Backcountry trout are wild and creatures of their surroundings...which means predators from above are common. When approaching the stream to make a cast or scout a section, walk slowly, don't make any sudden movements, and be careful of making too many sounds with your feet while you walk. Trout have very sensitive lateral lines and don't spoil a backcountry fishing trip near you by being clumsy.

Keep a fishing journal. onWater Fish has a great tool for taking notes. Record information about your catches, the flies you use, and the conditions in which you caught fish or didn't. This will you have more success on the next fishing trip near you.

Practice catch and release. This is a simple way to ensure backcountry fishing places remain fishy and others can enjoy it...or you can return and have similar success. By adhering to a solid catch-and-release foundation there will always be places to fish near you.

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We go fishing for a lot of reasons. One of which is to get a break from the hustle-and-bustle of every day life. Time spent fishing in the backcountry is never wasted even if finding and catching a fish is difficult. With proper planning with onWater Fish and some helpful advice, you can enjoy a backcountry fishing experience whether far from home or in your neck of the woods.

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