Governor Aiken

The Governor Aiken is the official fly fishing pattern of Vermont and a time-tested choice for targeting trout and landlocked salmon. With its classic streamer design, this fly effectively mimics small baitfish, a key food source for predatory fish in Vermont’s lakes and rivers. Originally tied to honor Vermont’s former governor, this pattern has become a favorite among anglers pursuing trophy fish in the Northeast.

Tied with durable, high-quality materials, the Governor Aiken has a sleek, natural profile that excels in clear water conditions where fish rely on visual cues to strike. Whether fished in moving water or still lakes, its combination of color and movement makes it an excellent searching pattern when fish are actively feeding on baitfish.

To fish the Governor Aiken effectively, swing it through deep runs, retrieve it in short, darting strips to imitate an injured baitfish, or dead-drift it through likely holding water. This fly is particularly effective during the fall, when landlocked salmon move into rivers, but it remains a productive pattern throughout the year.