Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge Returns to the Adirondacks in 2026

Fly fishing on the Ausable River in the Adirondacks. — Fly fishing in Wilmington Notch on the Ausable River. All photos courtesy whitefaceregion.com (ROOST) Credit: Cody Updike

Each May, the Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge brings anglers to the heart of the Adirondacks along the Ausable River in the Whiteface Region near Wilmington and Lake Placid—for one of the region’s most distinctive fly fishing competitions.

This catch-and-release tournament, paired with a weekend of events, gatherings, and river culture, runs May 14–16, 2026, blending sport, community, and a deep respect for one of the Adirondacks’ most celebrated waterways.

Now in its 26th year, the Two-Fly Challenge has evolved into more than a competition. It’s a ritual for anglers, a social weekend for outdoor enthusiasts, and a showcase of Adirondack fly fishing heritage.

After all, if there’s a place where fly fishing feels less like a pastime and more like a language, it’s here.

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Woman fly fishing the flume on the Ausable river near Whiteface in the Adirondacks. — Fishing the flume on the Ausable.

A fly fishing competition rooted in Adirondack tradition.

The premise is deceptively simple—and famously unforgiving.

Each angler selects just two flies per day. That’s it. No backups. No substitutions. Lose both, and the day is done.

Fishing in teams of two, competitors tally their success not by quantity alone, but by cumulative inches caught and released. Every fish must be handled, measured, and returned to the water to count. The winner? The team with the greatest total length across their catch.

It’s a format that rewards skill, strategy, and a bit of restraint—qualities that feel perfectly aligned with the rhythm of the Ausable itself.

Lake Placid and Wilmington set the stage for a full weekend of events.

While the fishing stretches across the river’s storied runs, the energy of the event centers around Wilmington, just outside Lake Placid, where the Whiteface Region provides a fitting backdrop of rugged peaks and fast-moving water.

The weekend begins Thursday, May 14, with a welcome reception and competitor meeting—an easygoing kickoff that sets the tone for what’s to come.

Friday, May 15, marks the first full day of fishing, from 6:30 am – 6:30 pm. Midday, anglers and spectators alike typically gather at the Hungry Trout Fly Shop porch party (11 am – 2 pm), where music, beer, and riverside camaraderie take center stage.

That evening, the Fly Tying Tour arrives at Hungry Trout Tavern (7:30 pm), blending demonstration, competition, and storytelling in equal measure.

Saturday, May 16, follows with another early start on the water (6:30 am – 5 pm), plus a lively midday gathering at High Falls Gorge (11 am – 2 pm), featuring food specials, live music, and a rare chance to fish this scenic stretch of the river.

The weekend wraps with a cocktail hour, awards ceremony, raffles, and live music beginning at 5 pm—an Adirondack-style finale where stories flow almost as freely as the river itself.

Ausable river two-fly challenge fly fishing competitor tying flies at the hungry trout fly shop in Wilmington. — Tying flies at the Hungry Trout Tavern.

More than a competition: a celebration of Adirondack fly fishing culture.

What sets the Two-Fly Challenge apart is its atmosphere.

Yes, there’s competition. But there are also fly-tying demonstrations, skills clinics, guest speakers, and a steady undercurrent of shared knowledge and appreciation for the craft. The presence of industry figures like rod-and-fly designer Joe Goodspeed underscores the event’s credibility while keeping it grounded in the community.

Even those who don’t fish will find plenty to enjoy—from live music and local food vendors to the simple pleasure of spending a spring weekend along one of the Adirondacks’ most iconic rivers.

ADK Taste pick.

The midday gatherings—particularly the Hungry Trout porch party and the High Falls Gorge hang—offer a rare window into the social side of Adirondack fly fishing. Even for non-anglers, these are the moments where the culture comes alive.

ADK Taste recommendation.

Arrive early and plan your parking in Wilmington, especially on Friday and Saturday mornings. If you’re not competing, time your visit around the midday gatherings (11 am – 2 pm) for the best mix of access, atmosphere, and activity without needing to navigate river access points.

Experience the West Branch Ausable River.

Discover one of the Adirondacks’ premier fly fishing waters.

This short video highlights the West Branch of the Ausable River, one of the most renowned fly-fishing destinations in the Adirondacks, known for its freestone structure and dynamic pocket water.

From steep runs to quiet pockets, this stretch of the Ausable showcases the kind of terrain that has drawn anglers to the Adirondacks for generations.

Located near Wilmington and Lake Placid, the West Branch Ausable River remains a defining destination for fly fishing in the Adirondacks.

Plan your visit.

Registration for the 2026 Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge is now open, with full details and updates available through the event’s official Eventbrite page.

Whether competing or simply observing, this is one of the most authentic ways to experience spring in the Adirondacks—where cold water, early light, and the quiet focus of casting define the season.

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Fly fishing on the Adirondack's famous Ausable river. — Celebrating the joy of fishing on the Ausable River.

FAQ: Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge

What is the Ausable River Two-Fly Challenge?
A catch-and-release fly fishing tournament where anglers are limited to two flies per day, competing based on total fish length.

Where is the event held?
Along the West Branch of the Ausable River in Wilmington, NY, near Lake Placid in the Adirondacks.

When is the 2026 event?
May 14–16, 2026, with fishing days on Friday and Saturday.

Can non-anglers attend?
Yes. Many events, including porch parties, live music, and the awards ceremony, are open to the public.

How do you register?
Through the official Eventbrite page (linked in the article).

Is there anything happening after the competition?
Yes. A Sunday skills clinic with fly fishing expert Joe Goodspeed is available with separate registration.