Mornings here start early, with waders slick from the grass and the smell of coffee lingering by the fly bins. The counter fills up quick with talk of hatches, guide trips, and the latest from the Delaware or Willowemoc.
What to Expect:
🎣 Guided wade and float trips on East & West Branch Delaware, Beaverkill, Willowemoc
🪰 Big selection of Catskill-style dries, nymphs, and seasonal patterns
🧢 Staffed by seasoned, straight-talking guides—no attitude
👢 Essential gear, hand-tied leaders, tips on flows, and riverside advice
👨👩👧👦 Family lessons and patient beginner support on request
Important Information:
✔ Walk-ins welcome but call ahead before driving in—guides may be out on the river
✔ Open mornings only, hours shift with trout season and river conditions
✔ Wheelchair-accessible parking lot; low front threshold
✔ Local numbers and online contact for guides and trip details
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
Local Insights
🐟 Classic Hatches: Hendricksons and March Browns hit the East Branch in late April—prime dry fly windows around 4:30 PM after warmups.
⏰ Guide Timing: Best to walk in for trip info before 9:00 AM; shop may close early if all guides are booked or on the river.
📏 Flow Tips: West Branch fishes best from 475–800 cfs at Hale Eddy; check USGS before heading out after rain.
🎣 Beginner Lessons: Ask about half-day starter sessions—patience for first-timers and kids is a Baxter specialty.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Most anglers praise Baxter House for honest advice, a stacked fly selection, and experienced guides who share real river knowledge. Staff are welcoming to beginners and seasoned fishers alike, and the pricing is seen as fair for trips and gear. Some mention shop hours as unpredictable, especially mid-season when guides are on the water—calling ahead is wise. A few reviewers have reported booking or communication snafus, but stories from the water and hands-on patience with kids get high marks.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
