The Best Fly Fishing Dogs And What Makes A Good One
- The Fly Box LLC
- 10 hours ago
- 5 min read
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Nothing compares to a day on the water with your four-legged friend. Fly fishing with a dog is about companionship and enjoying the moment, not productivity. For many anglers, a fishing dog becomes part of the day's rhythm, enhancing the experience without complicating it.
Not every dog is suited for fly fishing. Some are too curious or love water too much, while others struggle with stillness. Temperament and training are more important than breed alone.
A good fly fishing dog is calm in new environments, responds to basic commands, waits patiently, and trusts their handler.
Below are breeds that often excel as fly fishing companions, based on observed patterns over many seasons.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most common outdoor companions in North America for good reason. Labs are intelligent, adaptable, and eager to please. They handle new environments well and tend to stay emotionally steady even when conditions change.
On the river, a well trained Lab can settle into long stretches of inactivity without becoming restless. Their natural comfort around water makes them confident in shallow crossings or when stepping into a boat, though that same enthusiasm can become a distraction if not properly managed.
Why they often work well:
Labs are highly trainable and respond quickly to repetition and structure. They form strong bonds with their owners and usually prefer staying close rather than wandering. Their temperament makes them forgiving of mistakes during training and patient during long days outside.
Potential challenges:
Labs can become overly excited around water, especially when young. Without clear boundaries, they may enter the river at the wrong moment and disturb fish. Shedding and wet fur are also realities of life with a Lab on the water.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers share many traits with Labradors but often bring a slightly calmer and more patient demeanor. They tend to be content simply being present and are less likely to demand constant interaction once trained.
Goldens adapt well to group outings and are often excellent companions on shared fishing days. Their friendly nature makes them approachable around other anglers and dogs, which can be an advantage on popular waters.
Why they often work well:
Golden Retrievers are emotionally intuitive and strongly bonded to their handlers. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are usually willing to wait quietly while their owner fishes. Their steady nature makes them ideal for anglers who value a relaxed pace.
Potential challenges:
Their long coats require maintenance and tend to hold water. Goldens can also become distracted by birds, wildlife, or movement along the bank if not consistently trained.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds thrive in environments that demand awareness and engagement. They are highly intelligent dogs that enjoy having a job, even if that job is simply staying close and observing.
On rugged water or long walk in trips, Australian Shepherds often excel. They are agile, alert, and comfortable navigating uneven terrain. With proper training, they can learn to remain calm despite their natural energy.
Why they often work well:
Their intelligence allows them to pick up patterns and routines quickly. Many Australian Shepherds naturally watch their handler and mirror behavior, which translates well to fishing scenarios.
Potential challenges:
High energy levels mean they require regular exercise outside of fishing days. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they may struggle with extended inactivity.
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers were bred for endurance and long days outdoors. That heritage shows on the water. They are comfortable moving between activity and rest and tend to handle changing conditions with ease.
Their short coat dries quickly, which is a practical benefit during wet days or variable weather. Many GSPs also show a natural discipline once trained, making them reliable companions during long sessions.
Why they often work well:
They are athletic, resilient, and comfortable covering ground. Their trainability and physical durability make them well suited for anglers who fish hard and often.
Potential challenges:
They require consistent training and regular exercise. Without structure, they can become stubborn or overly energetic.
Alaskan Malamute
While not commonly associated with fishing, Alaskan Malamutes can make excellent companions in colder climates. They are strong, calm, and deeply loyal to their owners once trust is established.
Malamutes are generally content to sit and observe, especially in cool conditions. They may not be natural swimmers, but they are well suited for bank fishing and long days in harsh environments.
Why they often work well:
They handle cold weather exceptionally well and are patient when properly trained. Their steady presence can be grounding during long days on the water.
Potential challenges:
Their thick coats can lead to overheating in warm weather. They also require consistent leadership to manage their independent nature.
Boykin Spaniel
Boykin Spaniels are one of the most naturally suited fly fishing dogs despite being less widely known. Medium sized, water oriented, and even tempered, they strike a balance that many anglers appreciate.
They are capable swimmers without being frantic and tend to stay engaged without demanding attention. Their size makes them easier to travel with, whether by vehicle or small boat.
Why they often work well:
Boykin Spaniels are adaptable, loyal, and naturally inclined toward water work. They often settle into fishing routines quickly.
Potential challenges:
They require regular grooming and benefit from early training to establish boundaries.
Honorable Mentions
Newfoundland (Great swimmers but a little too big for most boats)
Chesapeake Bay Retriever (Tough, outdoorsy, but needs a strong hand for training)
Springer Spaniel (Water-loving and energetic, but prone to getting distracted)
Training Matters More Than Breed
No dog is born knowing how to behave on a river. A successful fishing companion is developed through repetition, structure, and patience. Regardless of breed, a dog must be comfortable waiting quietly, responding to commands, and understanding boundaries around water.
Basic skills that matter on the water include a reliable sit and stay, recall under distraction, and comfort around moving current. Introducing water gradually and setting clear expectations early makes a significant difference.
Safety should always be a priority. A properly fitted dog life vest, basic first aid supplies, and awareness of hooks and sharp objects are essential parts of fishing with a dog.
Final Thoughts
While certain breeds tend to excel as fly fishing companions, the truth is that any dog can become a great fishing dog. What matters most is temperament, trust, and the time invested in training together.
Some of the best fishing dogs are not purebred, highly trained, or particularly athletic. They are simply dogs that understand their person, enjoy being outside, and are content sharing quiet moments by the water.
A good fishing dog does not care if you catch anything. They are there for the walk in, the sound of the river, and the simple fact that you went together. That alone makes them a perfect companion on the water.