West Branch Angler & Resort

Zack Schneider

2023-12

West Branch Angler & Resort, located in Hancock, New York, offers a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those interested in fly fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains.Location and Setting: The resort is situated at the wooded base of the Catskills, along the banks of the west branch of the Delaware River. This location provides guests with direct access to some of the best wild trout fishing in the Eastern United States​​.Accommodations: West Branch Angler Resort features upscale log cabin accommodations. These cabins are set in a sprawling 300-acre park-like environment along a 2-mile private section of the West Branch of the Delaware River. The resort is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Catskills,” offering guests breathtaking mountain scenery and grounds. There are 30 private cabin rentals available, each rich in amenities and designed for comfort​​​​​​.Fishing and Outdoor Activities: As a fly fishing resort and shooting preserve, the West Branch Angler offers 26 luxury cabins on 200 acres of beautiful mountain scenery. Guests have access to 3 miles of private catch and release water on the West Branch of the Delaware River. Options for fishing include fishing the river at the resort, going on a guided river trip with professional guides, or trying fly fishing at their facilities​​.As an avid fly fisherman, I have had the pleasure of visiting West Branch Angler & Resort at least dozens of times, each visit etching a unique and cherished memory in my mind. My experiences at the resort span different times of the year, and what stands out is how each visit, irrespective of the season, has been nothing short of incredible.Even on the most challenging fishing days, when the river seemed more like a puzzle than a peaceful retreat, the resort has always offered an unmatched experience. In my opinion, it is the nicest resort on the Delaware River. One aspect that significantly enhances the fishing experience here is the fully-equipped fly shop. The guides, knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, have always been ready to lead the way, sharing tips and techniques that have enriched my fly fishing journey.The convenience of renting a drift boat at the resort is another feature I greatly appreciate. It allows for an immersive fishing experience, letting me explore different parts of the river at my own pace. After a long day of fishing, the pull-out at the resort is a welcome facility, making the end of the day as smooth and hassle-free as its start.The West Branch of the Delaware River has become one of my favorite rivers in the world to fish. Its serene beauty, coupled with the abundant opportunities it offers for fly fishing, draws me back year after year. Each visit to the West Branch Angler & Resort has become a part of a cherished ritual, eagerly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyed.The resort has become more than just a destination for me; it is a sacred place that holds some of my fondest fishing memories. Whether it's the tranquility of the river, the thrill of the catch, or the comfort and hospitality of the resort, every visit has been a unique and fulfilling adventure. It's a place where I not only connect with nature but also reconnect with myself, finding peace and excitement in equal measure. The West Branch Angler & Resort isn't just a spot on the map; it's a significant part of my life's journey, woven into the fabric of my passion for fly fishing.

Steven Baumgartner

2023-05

This place does a great job. The fly shop is top of the line and they are always eager to answer questions and talk fishing. We've gone mid April two years in a row and while the fishing can still be hit or miss that early, the guides are incredibly knowledgable about the river, they work their tails off, and know the right amount of coaching to make it a great day no matter what. As for facilities, the cabins are warm and clean. Only constructive feedback is that while the restaurant has good food and drinks (and you can't beat the location after a day on the river) they need to tighten up their processes a little and it's a tad pricey. However, I will go back again and again. The whole package is worth it!

Chris W

2023-10

The resort:The accommodations are absolutely stunning. With many cabins being located steps from the West Branch of the Delaware River, and others with amazing landscape views, you can’t go wrong. The cabins have everything you need and nothing you don’t. If you aren’t a fisherman (and have no desire to become one) I still highly recommend staying here. Every morning we were joined by herds of deer, Bald Eagles, trout jumping in the river and so much more. The cabins are clean and up to date.The restaurant/Bar:This is where you start to feel the personal touch, the attention to detail. After the first night the extremely attentive waitstaff (that word is too official as they quickly become friends) tend to your every want/need. They pay attention to what you like and capitalize on that. They suggest options that always seem to be a home run. At a lodge type setting you expect the food to be “good”. The Chef and staff in the kitchen far exceed good. The food is absolutely amazing. This is not your usual high-volume food. Each dish is cooked to perfection. I would recommend one or two meals, however, I can’t narrow it down, it’s all amazing. If you drink Bourbon, there is no other place to go, but to the West Branch Bar (more to come on this in a few). The bar downstairs has an amazing friendly and inviting vibe that is further enhanced, once again, by the staff.This Fishing:This is what it is all about. Fishing the West Branch isn’t easy. The staff at the shop will tell you that, the guides will tell you that….yet, seemingly they still get you on the fish. Many, many years ago I was a self-taught fly-fisherman, which translates into many bad habits and pretty much an inability to catch fish with a fly rod. With the help of the guides (I had the opportunity to fish with 3 of them), I was able to net several amazing trout in the span of a few hours. The guides, don’t treat you like an idiot who doesn’t know how to fish. They take the time to explain everything. They tell you the how, and more importantly the why, you do things. They patiently dodge your flies and fly line all while smiling and ensuring you that you are doing great. These guides are top notch and spend hundreds of days on these technical fishing waters. If anyone can get a fish on the end of your line, it’s this crew. If you are a real pro, they can just as happily guide the boat to the hot spots. They cater to what you need/want.I haven’t named any of the star employees for 2 reasons. The first being is that they are ALL amazing. I truly mean that. There isn’t one person that we came across that we didn’t enjoy talking with. There wasn’t one staff member that acted in an unprofessional manner. Everyone is there to help ensure that your stay is the best that it can be. The second reason is I wouldn’t want to leave anyone out. As a general rule, I am horrible with remembering names. After staying here for a few days, there are very few names of the staff I don’t know. How is it possible that ALL the employees are truly amazing top notch, non-disgruntled, genuine people? I think the simple answer is one of the owners, Matt. Matt is the type of guy who you just want to hang out with. Take away the fishing, the bourbon, the resort, if you saw Matt walking down the street, he would probably strike up a conversation with you about some fascinating aspect of the surrounding area. He is a genuinely good person. He treats his staff like family. Not like the usual “workplace family”, like real family. He extends that same treatment to his guests. My wife and I made a friend during our stay. As busy as he is, he takes the time to talk to people, and more importantly, listen as well. Matt’s knowledge of Bourbon is extraordinary. I thought I knew a little about bourbon, however, listening to Matt talk about bourbon for a few minutes made me realize I know nothing. If bourbon is your thing, Matt is the guy you need to talk to.5 stars across the board. I cannot recommend this place enough. This has become my family’s go to spot going forward.

Caitlin Manion

2023-05

We got married here August 2022. We were looking for a mini weekend getaway, surrounded by nature, good food and drinks and quality service. West Branch delivered! The grounds are gorgeous and it's so nice that guests can stay on site. We opted for a Friday night rehearsal dinner bbq, bonfire and Saturday wedding. The food was delicious and Matt and Nicole truly took care of everything. I highly recommend etting married here, staying here for the weekend or stopping by for dinner. I will mention that there was some miscommunication between booking the venue and the wedding weekend, which had me very worried (as a type A perfectionist) but everything worked out beautifully. I will always treasure this weekend. Thank you Matt!Rooms: Keeping in mind this is a rustic venue, the rooms were clean and comfortable. 5 stars if you look at them as cabins. If you are expecting top notch hotel, might be closer to a 4.Food & drinks: Food for our wedding was delicious and plentiful. We had the chicken marsala, salmon, pinot noir short ribs, grilled asparagus and mashed potatoes.Noteworthy details: Keep in mind the rooms increase in price as more people are added. This is to cover the cost of breakfast (included) but can make it more expensive than first look.

Ed

2023-08

First guided fly fishing drift ever for me, went with a buddy who was brand new to fly fishing. Huge props to our guide, Kevin, who got my buddy onto an 18-in brown, and throughout the trip embodied patience, humor, and professionalism, while dealing with the odd tangle, tackle changes, and rowing simultaneously. Can't overstate what a difference it makes being with the right guy. Well done Kevin, and well done West Branch Anglers. I'll be back!

John Rod

2023-12

Wow - Great time and plenty of fish and even some trophy browns on our three day adventure halloween Weekend 2021. Our river front cabin was rustic on the outside and inside. It was clean and had a modern kitchen, bathroom, 2 bedrooms (4 beds) and a living/dining room. All cabins are a little different and each has a special view…We enjoyed the wood burning fireplace (you can bring wood, buy wood at the resort or rumage for wood). We brought our own food to prepare our meals in the kitchen inside the cabin for our three day stay. The River level was high and but the fellas in the fly shop (on site) gave us tips, local knowlegde and plenty of fly selections to ensure our success. We also hopped in the car and drove to the gamelands and enjoyed on afternoon there. We took plenty of photos and GoPro footage of the trophy rainbow and brown trout we caught. Loved the place, the surrounding scenic beauty displayed full fall colors. We will be back!UPDATE! —- we have been back each year since and just booked our 2024 stay today. The more times we stay, the more we learn and this place has some magic mojo to it!Nearby activities: Other than more honey hole nearby fishing spots, not a lot of entertainment or food places in the nearby towns. Best to prepare food in your cabin - and enjoy the scenery on site.

MitangoT

2023-08

I am rating the fishing experience only as that's all we did. As a first time fly fisherman I was nervous about my lack of skill. Kevin, our guide explained and demonstrated it so well that I quickly learned the basics and actually caught my first fish on a fly rod!

3 Sticks Outdoors

2023-11

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Bri Elizabeth

2023-05

Thank you guys for being so understanding about my mom's and my cars problem this past weekend!! The place was beyond gorgeous and it was like i was in Heaven from it being so beautiful. My son, 4, hopes the cleaning lady liked the flowers he left her in cabin 17. My son also put acorns on a whole bunch of rocks (the rocks were "plates") for the cute little chipmunks that were running around under the deck. My mom, family and I are thankful and blessed beyond words for your spectacular accomodations and for letting us stay an extra night without any problems 💜😭 🙏🏽 God bless and stay safe and healthy💜🙏🏽

Greg Marchand

2023-06

These folks do an outstanding job. Not much else like them in the East. Cabins are comfortable, flyshop is extremely well equipped, and the fish are fussy! We make a pilgrimage here any chance we get. Staff are all fantastic and you'll likely meet some interesting people. Great fishing on the Beaverkill and Willowemoc is less than an hour away.

Jodie

2022-05

We stay here quite a bit and each stay has been absolutely amazing! We have stayed in the regular sized one bedroom cabins as well as the larger two bedroom (pictured), and all of them are always very clean and just gorgeous. We may be just a few hours from home, but we feel a million miles away from the everyday stressors of life. The scenery is breathtaking no matter what location on the property you are in. Absolutely worth every penny, every time.

Benjamin Gauthier

2023-05

Ran into this place by accident.Thankfully I did.The rooms are extremely impressive, included breakfast was actually really good and the staff was friendly.Late check in was a breeze.For dinner, the restaurant on the property was amazing. Competitive to expensive restaurants with plenty of outdoor seating.I will definetely come back again.

Jim Panzenhagen

2022-05

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Garret Savoie

2023-07

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Wayne Nadwodny

2022-05

The resort was beautiful. My cabin was really nice. Fireplace, I mean it was a beautiful looking log cabin. My only problem was it was supposed to be handicap accessible. It had a great ramp. I think if they put a grab bar in the shower. It would be perfect. Alsobar near the toilet and a toilet not near the floor.a

Kristy H

2021-05

Excellent resort! Cabin was very clean, had everything we needed and the onsite restaurant was fine dining without breaking the bank! Excellent dishes & quality ingredients. The grounds were immaculate and the guys at the Fly shop were super helpful & super friendly. A BIG thanks to Ben for helping us out with our NY fishing license!! Would highly recommend. And free breakfasts with your stay!

Melissa DiPaola

2022-05

I absolutely loved this cabin! We stayed in the hideaway. It was beautiful and huge, plenty of room for 2 families. Very clean. I will def come back here again. We stayed here in August to go to the Delaware county fair.

Mario Perez

2023-05

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J Yacc

2023-07

Great place to find out what’s happening all over the Delaware. They have the secrets and are willing to share. If you want to launch from here just pay a small fee and they will Let you even if you’re not staying here.

Chazz Lynch

2022-05

The restraunt was fantastic!! I walked across the Delaware. Was already ice cold in late August. But, absolutely amazing view.I'm taking away one star for the beds. They were not very comfortable. Everything else was clean and very well set up.

Amma

2023-05

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Tara Nolan

2016-05

I've stayed here with different family members 5 times now. I think it is a very nice place, kept clean and neat inside cabins and outside cabins. the pool is clean and nice. Nobody bothers us. we feel free and peaceful there. Not crowded the times I went. (which I prefer). scenery is beautiful. What I love most about it is that there are not a big lists of DO NOT''S.. NO SIGNS SAYING DON'T DO THIS, DON'T DO THAT. It's a lay back atmosphere. They just let you be. I love it!!! going this summer with more family and friends!! can't wait.

kim deritis

2020-05

Last month our son and daughter in-law(Filandro &Julie) got married at this venue and everything was absolutely perfect! First let me start by thanking Matt whom was absolutely wonderful. He provided us with everything we needed and helped guide us through the entire weekend. And he did it with a huge smile the whole time☺️This venue was like having a destination wedding right here in our own back yard!! By having the whole weekend experience made it seem like we were all on a great big vacation together. We got to spend so much quality time with our friends and family, And we truly enjoyed every minute!! Oh and don’t let the word cabin make you think your sleeping in a old run down place😳 The cabins are 5 ⭐️ they have everything you need. Nicer than any hotel room I’ve seen!!We had our rehearsal dinner at the pavilion which we had mostly catered and it was perfect! We got to eat, drink, play yard games,and have a bonfire by the river and just relax the night before the wedding.The morning of the wedding we all enjoyed breakfast which was provided for us!! Then it was on to the big day festivity’s!! The ceremony was beautiful from the weather to the details that were so tastefully beautiful! The food was by far the best food we have ever had at a wedding. Our guest all agreed the food was amazing!! People went back for seconds and thirds! There was more than enough food and it was prepared to perfection!The staff was professional and so kind and accommodating! I have been a waitress for over 30 years so I appreciate the quality of work that the entire team did to provide such a wonderful experience for our families and friends! It was all beyond amazing!!So to anyone looking at this venue for your wedding or other special occasion it truly is an amazing venue and you will NOT be disappointed!!So......thank you to Matt and your entire team for a job well done🙌 We will definitely be back to see you guys!!SincerelyFilandro and Kim

Michael Brewster

2022-05

Nice cabins and on a river for easy access to fishing. Many areas around the resort have better fishing but, the resort has the ability to walk out of troublethe cabin and into the river. It is a bit away from amenities such as groceries and restaurants. Resort does have a restaurant on site (we didn't use it because we were out fishing each day). Am definitely considering going back.

Chris A

2017-05

We did a weekend stay at the resort and loved it! Our cabin was great and looking at the river in the morning with a coffee was perfect. The guys at the fly shop and our guide was great and helped us with everything we needed. Will defiantly be back for another relaxing fishing weekend.

Mark Erlebacher

2022-05

Terrific & different R&R experience, and you can try out fly fishing with one of many experienced guides if you like.This destination is a real gem. I brought my family, my wife, and 2 adult sons in September 2021.This is our first trip to the southern tier of NY State and our purpose was to rest, relax, and recharge ourselves from very stressful busy and demanding jobs. Yes all all of us work full time and then some.The focus of the resort is off course the avid fly fisherman, and there is little else to do, but that, is the gem part. If you bring no activity and no agenda then that is a true getaway. We sat and read books, gathered as a family and ate at their marvelously good River Run restaurant on site. Particularly unique to relaxing near water is the added experience of the stream, The West Branch as it is named flows slowly by as you gaze out and many times a day you see fly fisherman, 3 in a drift boat (flat bottomed boat with oars) drift by at the slow speed of the current.The cabins have a log cabin exterior and floor to ceiling walls and ceiling made with knotty pine, plentiful windows and the interior is well appointed with comfy furniture, mostly mission style oak as were the kitchen cabinets. the cabins are clean and everything was in working order with ceiling fans in the main room and bedrooms.The registration desk and Fly shop has an Orvis collection of fly fishing products with staff are extremely helpful and knowledgeable as well. We had good cell service and internet (good enough) and satellite TV as well.

amy white

2020-05

Had my daughters wedding here! Excellent location, fun to have manny of their guests stay the weekend. Cottages are awesome, a little pricey but it does come with a nice full breakfast each morning. Staff was great.

Timothy Ames

2019-05

We attended a wedding here in September. I was very impressed. Beautiful grounds, nice cabins, and the main restaurant (reception was held in this building) was very nice. The food was good, the bar was good, and the establishment provides a cozy and welcoming environment. I will likely look into this place for future family getaways, dining...and if your a fisherman, I dont know if there is a nicer place in the southern tier of New York. I would recommend this place for liesure, dining, and outdoor activities.

Bill Zobrist

2022-05

The folks here are first rate. Every single person we interacted with were very accommodating and helpful. The fly shop is very well stocked, the grounds are well kept. Clearly, they cater to primarily a male clientele who generally care less about the small touches. Stayed in a cabin as well as the Eagleview cabin directly on the WB. Neither would I consider spotless clean, again, remember who they target. Once you strip the bed of sheets you’ll see what I mean. Nonetheless, the cabin has what you need, though I’d be hard pressed to sleep in a small room with two other guys if that’s their intention with the bed arrangement. Very basic with a kitchen and AC… Eagleview is a different level of privacy and comfort. Just delightful spot. The water pressure stinks… I mean really bad, but the cabin is comfortable. The mattress could use a regular vacuum. Being able to walk out your door and fish is a huge bonus.Overall, I like the location and accommodations. With some small attention to detail, they would be five stars for what they offer.

Jaime New

2019-05

Just spent the weekend for a wedding and everything was wonderful. The grounds were beautiful, the cabins were very clean and modern. They were very accommodating to all the weekend festivities. Overall it was a great and relaxing time and would recommend this place to anyone.