There is a lot of Fishing Knowledge Here. It’s a great place to research what is going on throughout the season.
Our store has been closed for some time. We no longer post current fishing reports. But if you have a thirst for knowledge you should scroll down this page anyway. There are YEARS of comprehensive fishing reports. Iceout and spring fishing techniques. Mayfly hatches, what to use and how to fish mayfly hatches. You’ll learn … Continue reading There is a lot of Fishing Knowledge Here. It’s a great place to research what is going on throughout the season.
Open Water Season gets 18″ of Fresh Snow
The 2020 Open Water Fishing Season hasn’t really begun just yet in the Moosehead Lake Region. Thoughts of an historically early iceout have faded for the time being. With over 18″ inches of fresh snow dumped yesterday it will likely take a week or more just to get back to where we were before … Continue reading Open Water Season gets 18″ of Fresh Snow
Fall Conditions at Their Best
Decreasing water temperature, now in the low 60’s, along with scheduled increases in water flows has done its job very nicely. The East Outlet, Moose, and Roach have all seen nice runs of fall fish. Anglers are all smiles with lots of tales of big, beautiful salmon. These are 18 – 22” adult spawning age … Continue reading Fall Conditions at Their Best
The Stars have all lined up nicely
As we say every fall, the key ingredients for a good fall river fishing is falling water temperatures and rising water levels. In the last ten days river water temperatures have gone from their peak at 72 degrees to the current temperature of 64 degrees. Nights have been in the low 50’s with daytime temps … Continue reading The Stars have all lined up nicely
Fall fishing is now on everyone’s mind
MFO Season is winding down, the kiddos will be back in school soon and the last long weekend of summer is right around the corner. So for now fishing opportunities remain the same as before except water temps are slowly falling and fish are beginning to perk up a bit. The East Outlet has seen … Continue reading Fall fishing is now on everyone’s mind
MFO Season
We are smack dab in the middle of the heat of summer. Waters are the warmest they will be all season. It’s a great time to take care of those family obligations. We call it MFO (Mandatory Family Outing) season. Many of our customers are here for a wedding or family reunion or summer vacation. … Continue reading MFO Season
14th Annual Project Healing Waters Outing
July 17-20, 2019 – Seven vets and two counselors from Massachusetts and Vermont attended this years fishing trip. They arrived the afternoon of July 17th and stayed at Kokadjo Sporting Camps on First Roach Pond. Dinner the first evening was provided by the Rod & Reel Café. Everyone meet at the Maine Guide Fly Shop the … Continue reading 14th Annual Project Healing Waters Outing
Better Late than Never
The highly anticipated Drakes (Hexes) are finally beginning to show. The West Branch ponds and Big Lyford are perennial favorites. There’s easy access, lots of eager brookies and liberal laws so folks can take a few for the frying pan. Some of the more remote higher elevation ponds should also begin any day. Most have … Continue reading Better Late than Never
The Cycle of Caddis Continues
Aquatic insect hatches are like a garden growing. Once all the seeds are planted things begin to grow over time and eventually harvest season arrives. Radishes are likely you’re first crop. You can hardly wait until you have the first bunch for your salad. But after you’ve eaten radishes everyday for a week you are … Continue reading The Cycle of Caddis Continues
Dries all day!!!
June 20, 2019 We have been talking caddis for some time now. Maybe tomorrow, then tomorrow will be the day, then todays the day. This went on for a while. Then the day came and that day was yesterday June 19th when bright green-bodied caddis hit the scene as well as dark brown and tan … Continue reading Dries all day!!!
The caddis are coming, the caddis are coming
Caddis hatches haven’t kicked in just yet so it takes a mixed bag of tricks to fool fish. Mayfly hatches are about over but they convinced fish to begin looking up which is a good thing. At this point in time we say “They’re in transition”. There are always a few transition days every season, … Continue reading The caddis are coming, the caddis are coming
Everyone’s Lookin’ Up
June 6, 2019 – Everybody is looking up. Water flows in all the rivers are finally down to manageable levels. Hallelujah!! And the Hendrickson hatches are in full swing. What could be better! Once mayfly season kicks in, fish begin looking up. Translation… sinking lines become far less important in the quest for catching fish. … Continue reading Everyone’s Lookin’ Up
Full Steam Ahead
May 31, 2019 We haven’t had a 70 degree days in two weeks but the worm has finally turned thanks to the sun. Trees are showing leaf production, combined with a couple dry days equals run-off has been reduced to a crawl. Flows have been coming down in the East Outlet and Moose River. Both … Continue reading Full Steam Ahead
Water, water, Everywhere
May 24, 2019 – We hate to say it but the rainy season in Maine doesn’t officially end until mid-June. This seasons weather patterns have confirmed that many times. As a result our rivers have remained swollen due to a severe weather pattern that bombed through Maine a couple days ago. They (the water people) are … Continue reading Water, water, Everywhere
Let the games begin!!!
May 17, 2019 No two seasons are ever the same, but high water in the early season is most always a common theme. It is the official rainy season after all. Some years are a bit more rainy than others and this season is no exception so the faucet has remained open longer than … Continue reading Let the games begin!!!
It’s go time!!!
May 10, 2019 Moosehead Lake was officially called out on Thursday , May 9th. Smelt runs are on everywhere including the Moose River which saw smelt in the river last night. The Moose River is a favorite destination for early season trollers. Smelt, salmon, brookies and lake trout will be throughout the river in the … Continue reading It’s go time!!!
The Bubble is about to Burst.
Ice won’t be out this weekend but there is open water about so there are fish to be caught if you know where to look. Most of the snow is gone from the woods which means stream water is beginning in warm to that magical 40 degree mark when smelt begin they spawning runs. It’s … Continue reading The Bubble is about to Burst.
Run-off has kicked into high gear.
April 22, 2019 Winter has finally loosened its grip on the Moosehead Region. Run-off water is flowing from every corner and crevice. If you’re following our water flow page you’ll see the headwaters of both the Penobscot and Moosehead drainages are pumping big flows into Chescuncook and Moosehead but outflows are low conpared to inflow … Continue reading Run-off has kicked into high gear.
Don’t hold you’re breath
April 15, 2019 As you can see from the photo above, taken today, spring is taking its sweet old time showing up in the Moosehead Lake Region. It’s going to take more than a few warm, bright sunshiny days to beat down the snowpack and desolve 4 feet of ice. Spring run-off hasn’t really started yet … Continue reading Don’t hold you’re breath
New Waterflow Website
Brookfield Renewable introduced a new water flow website, SafeWaters.com It’s lot more than just a chart with today’s flow As we kick off 2019, Brookfield Renewable would like to introduce their new waterflow tool – Safe Waters. SafeWaters.com has replaced the former h2oline.com website. Flow information can also be accessed by calling 1-844-430-FLOW Users will no longer need to … Continue reading New Waterflow Website
The Year in Review – 2018
Last winter hung in there longer than anyone wanted or expected. Mother Nature didn’t loosen her grip until well into April. At the time ice-out predictions implied mid-May at the earliest. But warmer weather finally arrived and conditions changed quickly. A perfect storm for run-off developed and within a ten day stretch snow was quickly dissapearing … Continue reading The Year in Review – 2018
Late season rewards
October 22, 2018 – There is only a week remaining in the extended season for the East Outlet of the Kennebec. Come November 1st the only stretch of river that remains open is from the Dam on Moosehead to the yellow posts located at the Beach Pool. Until then the entire river remains open and … Continue reading Late season rewards
Last Harrah
October 5, 2018 – Spawning runs are in full swing in all of our rivers. The water temperature is now the low 60’s and some of the biggest fish, which spend their summer in the depth of the lakes chowing on smelt, now are in our rivers have their mind on other duties. When landlocked … Continue reading Last Harrah
It’s all about water flow and water temperature
September 21, 2018 – We say it every time someone asks, “How’s the fall fishing?” The answer is always the same, “Fall can be Feast or Famine.” In order for landlocked salmon and brook trout to get the urge to begin their fall spawning runs in earnest two factors have to fall into place, a sudden … Continue reading It’s all about water flow and water temperature
The Stars are lining up nicely
September 9, 2018 – River flows have increased on the Moose, East Outlet, Roach, and Upper West Branch at Seboomook Dam. Even through water temperature was warmer than we would like some new fish have moved into the river and are being caught on all the rivers. Its not fast and furious but folks who … Continue reading The Stars are lining up nicely
Right from HQ
August 24, 2018 – We have been in summer mode for a while now. Nothing has really changed in the last couple weeks. Fishing is always good but catching has been slow compared to a month ago. Some nice fish are still being caught at the East Outlet. The flow was at 2200 cfs for … Continue reading Right from HQ
Soft Hackle Season
August 5, 2018 – We see the same thing about this time every year. As summer sunshine warms the waters of Moosehead Lake and its tributaries trout and salmon begin retreating to the lakes seeking cooler waters in the deeper areas where smelt hangout. Many of the E.O. residents either drop back into Indian Pond … Continue reading Soft Hackle Season
13th Annual Project Healing Waters Outing
July 25, 2018 – Seven vets and two counselors from Maine and Vermont attended this years fishing trip. They arrived the afternoon of July 18th and stayed at Kokadjo Sporting Camps on First Roach Pond. Dinner, the first evening, was provided by the Rod & Reel Café. Everyone meet at the Maine Guide Fly Shop the … Continue reading 13th Annual Project Healing Waters Outing
Summertime conditions are settling in.
July 18, 2018 – It’s that time of season when a lot of the hatches have come and gone. The Green Drakes (Hex) hatches are just about over. They are the last big banquet fish see on our lakes and small trout ponds. And with summer settling in trout in the small ponds retreat into spring … Continue reading Summertime conditions are settling in.
July 4th Fishing Report
If this heat keeps up it will be having an effect on fishing overall. For now there are still plenty of fish in the East Outlet. Caddis hatches are now spotty throughout the day. You find a few hatching or laying eggs here and there. Good hatches come first thing in the morning and late … Continue reading July 4th Fishing Report
Coming Soon to a Pond Near Here
Green Drake season (Hex Hatches) June 28, 2018 – It’s the end of June and the time of season when canoes left upside down along shores of remote trout ponds are flipped over, cleared of debris and made ready for drake season. Pond fishermen come out of the woodwork anticipating the main event of the … Continue reading Coming Soon to a Pond Near Here
Dries all Day
We have entered our summer caddis pattern when you’ll find sporadic caddis hatches here and there throughout the day. Fish can be found casually feeding in most pools. Often there will be a substantial hatch early in the morning and late in the evening. Nowadays there are multiple species of caddis hatching. A shake of … Continue reading Dries all Day
Where does the signal come from?
In the last few days major caddis hatches began on all our rivers. Yesterday one species of green-bodied caddis hatched the entire length of the East Outlet. Where does that signal come from? We know water temperature plays a role while other factors still remain a mystery. It’s quite a spectacle to witness. Waves of … Continue reading Where does the signal come from?
When Lupine Bloom
Lupine are just now beginning to bloom in the Moosehead Lake Region which is our best indicator that caddis hatches are about to begin. Unlike mayflies which can be sparse at times and not wide spread, caddis hatches arrive as a blizzard of bugs. Who knows where the signal comes from but when in happens … Continue reading When Lupine Bloom
They’re Lookin’ Up
June 1, 2018 – Fish have started looking up. Mayfly hatches have been spotty so far with only a few here and there, mostly in the afternoon. The good news is there have been just enough to get the interest of fish. We began fooling both trout and salmon on soft hackle wets. Hendrickson and … Continue reading They’re Lookin’ Up
We are closing in on dry fly season
May 24, 2018 – Memorial Weekend Fishing Report Conditions could not be any better. Water flows are just about perfect and fish have been very co-operative. Smelt runs have run their course but because major hatches haven’t kicked in yet fish are still willing to chase streamers. It’s not as crucial these days to just … Continue reading We are closing in on dry fly season
The Sucker Spawn in ON!!
May 17, 2018 – With the exception of the Moose River, smelt runs are about over. Streamers are still doing the job and will for awhile. Fish have’t forgotten what a smelt looks like. Once the adult spawned out smelt return to deeper water fish begin feeding on younger needle smelt. Consider making the switch … Continue reading The Sucker Spawn in ON!!
The stars are lining up.
May 11, 2018 – Ice has only been out for a few days and already fish are cooperating. Smelt runs are in full swing at all the streams and it’s been said folks are seeing gulls diving on smelt in the Moose River. Water level has come down to fishable levels everywhere except the Moose … Continue reading The stars are lining up.
Iceout could be just around the corner
May 1, 2018 – Things change fast this time of season. Ten days ago the Moosehead Lake Region was frozen solid and you needed your snowmobile to get around the backcountry. During those ten days we’ve had a nice shift in the weather pattern. Things warmed up, stayed mild and we had a couple of … Continue reading Iceout could be just around the corner
A slow start
April 20, 2018 – We’ll begin the 2018 Fishing Report Season with a reality check. We have been receiving emails from regular customer inquiring when drift boat trips are scheduled to begin. The photo above says it all. It could be a shot of a wintery February day in Downtown Greenville but the reality is … Continue reading A slow start
2017 – The Year in Review
Our productive season kicks in around the beginning of May when smelt runs are in full swing. The Moose River in Rockwood is always the early season indicator. Trollers flocked to the Moose in pursuit of salmon, brook trout, and lake trout that accompany smelt when they enter the river on their spawning run. The … Continue reading 2017 – The Year in Review
Late season angling on the East Outlet
It was a wonderful October on the East Outlet. The weather was stunning and the salmon were in the best shape ever. We can’t remember when it was better size wise. We boated a few fat female salmon that were just shy of 4 lbs. You still have until the 31st to fish the entire … Continue reading Late season angling on the East Outlet
It Ain’t Over Yet
October 1, 2017 We’ve been flat out with trips so I apologize for not being at the keyboard more. It’s that time of season. It too bad September isn’t four months long instead of four weeks. It’s been an interesting September to say the least. Every river saw great early September runs of salmon and … Continue reading It Ain’t Over Yet
Like Magic
September 12, 2017 It didn’t take long for fish to respond to increases in water flows. The Roach has trout and salmon throughout as does the East Outlet. Last week we caught salmon in all the runs from the Beach Pool, where we launched, right down to the lake. Sixteen salmon came to our net. … Continue reading Like Magic
The stars are all lined up
September 6, 2017 Everything has come together nicely for wonderful fall fishing conditions. First the water temperature has gone from a high of 72 degrees in late August to the low 60’s in the last ten days, and it’s currently raining 59 degree water. Remember, in the fall, fish love falling water temperatures and rising … Continue reading The stars are all lined up
From HQ
August 25, 2017 We never want to wish away summer but this is the time of season when our thoughts go to fast forward and we begin wondering just how the fall fishing is going to shape up. There are two key ingredients to good fall fishing, water flow and water temperature. In the spring … Continue reading From HQ
A First
August 19, 2017 Things are just about the same as they were during our last report. Caddis are hatching mornings and evenings with a few stones thrown in. We are still tickling fish to the surface for an orange, tan or black body caddis. Soft hackle wets are doing all the real damage. They are … Continue reading A First
Game changer
August 14, 2017 We see the same thing about this time every year. As summer sunshine warms the waters of Moosehead Lake and its tributaries trout and salmon begin retreating to the lakes seeking cooler waters in the depths. Many of the E.O. residents either drop back into Indian Pond or pass through the fish … Continue reading Game changer
We’re in full summer mode
July 28, 2017 – Summer weather finally made it to the Moosehead Region a week or so ago. August is our windless, bright sky time of the season. We like to refer to August as MFO season (Mandatory Family Outing), when families get together for barbeques, weddings and reunions. Hardcore anglers take a break from … Continue reading We’re in full summer mode
12th Annual Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing Outing
July 19-21, 2017 Six vets and two counselors attended this years fishing trip. They arrived the afternoon of July 19 and stayed at Moosetracts Cottages on Prong Pond and the Chalet Moosehead on Moosehead Lake. Dinner ,the first evening, was provided by Leisure Life Resort. Everyone meet at the Maine Guide Fly shop the morning … Continue reading 12th Annual Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing Outing
Wild Ride
July 15, 2017 Both the Moose River and Penobscot Drainages saw over 3 inches of rain last week that came from the back to back to back thunder storms their torrential rain which quickly filled Moosehead & Chesuncook to capacity and caused flood gates to be opened. The origin of the Moose River Drainage begins … Continue reading Wild Ride
The Hexes are Hatching
July 7, 2017 It’s just after the 4th and the monster mayflies of summer are now the main event on our trout ponds. This is what every still water fly fisherman has been waiting for all season. The cool nights and rainy days have kept pond water temperatures ideal for the Green Drake (Hex) hatches. Just in … Continue reading The Hexes are Hatching
And the Hits Just Keep on Coming
July 1, 2017 River fishing remains very good. Caddis are hatching and cycling between different species. In the last few days we have been teasing fish to the surface with elk wing caddis with olive bodies, orange bodies and brown bodies. Tan Goddard caddis even started showing yesterday afternoon. One suggestion during this period of … Continue reading And the Hits Just Keep on Coming
Dries all day long
June 24, 2017 One of our favorite times of the year has arrived. Caddis hatches are now in full swing and feeding fish are eager to grab a caddis bouncing about on the surface. And yesterday was the best day of dry fly fishing we have seen yet. All the guides reported great dry fly … Continue reading Dries all day long
Dry Fly Time
June 16, 2017 Caddis are hatching everywhere and you don’t have to look very hard to find fish chasing caddis bouncing about on the surface of a river near here. Caddis have been popping on the Moose and the West Branch for nearly a week but yesterday was the first day the East Outlet saw … Continue reading Dry Fly Time
Join Us on the Dark Side
June 13, 2017 Many believe BASS is a 4 letter word, especially in trout and salmon country. They weren’t here to begin with, an invasive species, not noble enough to be included with cold water gamefish. Take your choice but it’s not the fishes fault they thrive in a few suitable areas in the north … Continue reading Join Us on the Dark Side
A Good Drift
June 9, 1982 A good drift Conditions couldn’t be much better. Water flows on all the rivers are perfect for waders and should remain there throughout the weekend. The West Branch has come alive with mayfly hatches reported all the way up river to Big Eddy. They’re mid-day hatches that bring big fish out of … Continue reading A Good Drift
They’re Looking up
June 2, 2017 Now that Hendricksons have started to show fish are beginning to look to the surface for a meal. They’ll chase a streamers fished on a dry line. They’ll pick a soft hackle just under the surface and in the afternoon when mayflies begin showing its dry fly time. This time of … Continue reading They’re Looking up
We’re kicking it into high gear.
2017 – Memorial Day Weekend Fishing Report – A lot has happened during May. Smelt runs have come and gone. There was way to much wet, cold weather and two major high water events that left rivers unfishable. Water temps remained in the low 40’s making fishing difficult to say the least. Through it all … Continue reading We’re kicking it into high gear.
The Sucker Spawn is ON!!
May 20, 2017 The smelt runs might be over but streamers are still doing the job. Once the adult spawned out smelt return to deeper water fish begin feeding on younger needle smelt. Consider making the switch from the biggest streamer you have to a smaller version of the same thing and you won’t miss … Continue reading The Sucker Spawn is ON!!
Conditions in Limbo
May 13, 2017 A week ago our red maples began to show signs of life and decided to bud. The tiniest tips of green leaves on trees indicated it’s time to move spring forward. Then every morning began just a few degrees above freezing and ended a few degrees below 50 so nature put the … Continue reading Conditions in Limbo
Water, Water Everywhere
May 5, 2017 It’s looking like a more normal start to the season than the last couple. Snow pack was good and during the rainy season it actually rained measureable amounts and its water, water everywhere. The East Outlet peaked at 10,000 cfs, the West Branch even higher, peaking at 17,000 cfs and the much … Continue reading Water, Water Everywhere
The Stars are Lining-up
April 29, 2017 We are not ice free just yet but we are gaining everyday. The Greenville end of Moosehead is still iced in but from the East Outlet to Rockwood appears to be ice free. A stiff wind will likely finish the job. The mild weather and rain has done away with most of … Continue reading The Stars are Lining-up
Winter Loosens it’s Grip
April 16, 2017 Fishing Report The snow is going but the ice is still hanging tight. We always say if the ice goes out before the beginning of May it’s early, if it goes out after May 10th it’s late. It doesn’t look right now like it’s going to be early this spring. The snow … Continue reading Winter Loosens it’s Grip
Big Streamers
April 12, 2017 It will be awhile until ice-out. The snow pack is dropping and run-off is in full swing but there is no real open water to be found on the lakes and ponds (except for the mouth of the Moose River). Back roads are still snow covered so you won’t get far if … Continue reading Big Streamers
Ice Fishing Season Extended
April 2, 2017 Opening day of the 2017 Open Water Fishing Season in the Moosehead Lake Region is April 1st. The issue this year is the open water part of the equation is missing. Winter has a hard time loosing its grip and northern Maine remains frozen solid with lots of ice and snow hanging … Continue reading Ice Fishing Season Extended
Water flows and wading the East Outlet
It’s not time to begin posting 2017 Fishing Reports. There is nothing to report. There is still lots of snow and ice and they are currently running 3000 cfs of excess run-off to keep Moosehead down so there is room to handle the major snow pack still in the drainage. One question we are asked … Continue reading Water flows and wading the East Outlet
We’re Peaking
October 15, 2016 We are half way through our extended October season on the East Outlet of the Kennebec and things couldn’t be much better. The fall colors are as brilliant as we’re ever seen and salmon are throughout the entire river. The quality of the salmon is superb. Male are all colored with big … Continue reading We’re Peaking
October on the East Outlet
October 2, 2016 The regular fishing season ended with a bang. The Roach River lit right up and produced some fantastic trout and salmon. The small trout ponds also lit up. Talk of 30 fish days left pond fishermen wishing the season wasn’t ending. The problem with September is it should be 3 months long. … Continue reading October on the East Outlet
Fall Fishing in Full Swing
September 19, 2016 Small ponds are at their best. Fish coming out of the spring holes and are on a pre-spawn feeding binge. Use traditional dries like a Royal Wulff or Royal Coachman wet and cast around. Fish are circling the pond searching for something to eat. Concentrate on areas around an inlet where trout … Continue reading Fall Fishing in Full Swing
Fall water increases key ingredient
September 6, 2106 Totally different water conditions apply for good fishing in the spring than do in the fall. In the spring we want falling water levels and rising water temperatures. After high spring run-off becomes more stable and water temperatures begin to rise, hatches start and fishing gets better and better. In the fall … Continue reading Fall water increases key ingredient
Tailwaters
August 19, 2016 As summer sunshine warms the waters of Moosehead Lake and its tributaries trout and salmon begin retreating to the lakes seeking cooler waters in the depths of the lake. Many of the E.O. residents either drop back into Indian Pond or pass through the fish ladder into Moosehead Lake. Although fish still … Continue reading Tailwaters
Summer Heat
August 2, 2016 The heat of the summer is upon us and MFO season (Mandatory Family Outing) is now in full swing. It’s been great weather for reunions, family picnics and outing. Water temperature in the ponds has climbed. Trout have retreated to spring holes where 55 degree ground water enters. A spring hole may … Continue reading Summer Heat
Eleventh Annual Healing Waters Outing
July 25-28 Founder, Ed Nicholson believed that teaching wounded vets fly fishing skills could very be good therapy during their recovery while at Walter Reed Hospital. Ten years ago we had the good fortune of offering the very first destination, fishing trip for the newly formed Healing Waters Organization. It was such a huge success … Continue reading Eleventh Annual Healing Waters Outing
It’s Cheeseburger Season Again
July 8, 2016 There are a lot of memorable times throughout the open water fishing season. We all have our favorite outings like the first Hendrickson hatch or when caddis season kicks in or when monster mayfly hatches begin on our remote ponds inspiring big trout to make pigs of themselves. The memorable mid-summer golden … Continue reading It’s Cheeseburger Season Again
Dries all Day
June 24, 2016 All day caddis hatches are about over which is not a bad thing. When there are caddis all over all day long fish can get very picky. They have been through the buffet line and not that larger to go back for seconds. As they say “Fish are fat and happy.” When … Continue reading Dries all Day
Coming soon to a pond near you
June 19th, 2016 Hatches have been frequent and heavy and fish are getting very fussy about what they want to eat. With the banquet hall full of food fish can become quite choosy. Fish begin refusing the very flies they couldn’t get enough of a day ago. They get fat and happy and a bit … Continue reading Coming soon to a pond near you
It’s that time of Season for Caddis, Caddis, Caddis
June 8th, 2016 It’s a magical time of season when caddis hatches begin. Every fish in the river will be after’em. Yesterday we caught salmon and trout from 4 to 20 inches. It the biggest banquet of the year and every fish young and old are taking advantage of the abundance of food. This is … Continue reading It’s that time of Season for Caddis, Caddis, Caddis
They are looking up
June 3, 2016 The season is chugging along nicely. We are still catching’em with sinking lines and streamers but it’s about time to pack that line away. Fish are more and more apt to chase a streamer bounced around with your floating line. A lot of different streamers are working. It’s more about covering a … Continue reading They are looking up
Memorial Day Weekend Report
May 26, 2016 Water flows couldn’t be any better. Water temperature as well. Mayflies are just beginning to show which translates into fish are now looking up. Dust off your mayfly collection and keep it handy ‘cause you’re probably going to need it. Blue wing olives have been around for a few days so fish … Continue reading Memorial Day Weekend Report
Change is in the air
May 18, 2016 Although streamer fishing is still in season you’ll have to start shopping around in your streamer box for different ones to try. Now that smelt have dispensed traditional smelt patterns aren’t as effective as they were. What worked yesterday may not work today. What worked in the morning may not work in … Continue reading Change is in the air
Better Everyday!!
May 12, 2016 Things are perking along nicely. Smelt runs are over and fish are scattering about which is not a bad thing. Fish are no longer just at the mouth of streams and rivers. In the big lake trollers are finding fish all along shorelines in the vicinity of streams. Spencer Bay for instance … Continue reading Better Everyday!!
Getting better everyday
May 6, 2016 We haven’t seen much sunshine for a week or more and air temperatures have struggled to get to the 50’s. Almost everyday since our last report we have had a hard frost. It’s been differcult finding 40 degree water. I am happy to report smelt are running in the Moose River. Fish … Continue reading Getting better everyday
Let the Games Begin!!
April 29, 2016 Let the games begin. Ice covered lakes and ponds are a thing of the past. Now we are just looking at record cold with morning temperatures in the 20’s every day this week, a chilly start to the season. Thoughts of earlier that normal hatches were just a dream. Unless it gets … Continue reading Let the Games Begin!!
Things are shaping up nicely
April 15, 2016 The Fly Shop will reopen for the season on Saturday, April 30th. We’re adding new fly fishing stuff, tying materials, and an exciting new line of flies. We looking forward to seeing old customers and meeting new one. We’ll be ready to help you in any way we can. It won’t be … Continue reading Things are shaping up nicely
Late season beauties!!
October 18, 2015 The leaves are now coming down, native brookies are insuring another generation is on it’s way, as salmon prepare for their chance to lay down reds before another moon phase comes and goes. Fall spawning runs may have gotten off to a slow start but there’s going to be a very strong … Continue reading Late season beauties!!
Change is in the air
September 22, 2015 Finally we are getting colder nights that will bring water temperatures down enough to entice more fish into the rivers. Water temps have now fallen below the 70 degree mark. All of our rivers have seen good increases in flows. The Moose went to 1000cfs, the Roach got another bump to 250 … Continue reading Change is in the air
Fall fishing. Feast or Famine.
September 14, 2015 Totally different water conditions apply for good fishing in the spring than do in the fall. In the spring we want falling water levels and rising water temperatures. After high spring run-off becomes more stable and water temperatures start to rise, hatches begin and fishing gets better and better. In the fall … Continue reading Fall fishing. Feast or Famine.
Fall flows scheduled to start soon
September 4, 2015 We hate to wish away summer but cooler weather can come any time. Key ingredients to good fall river fishing is rising water levels and falling water temperatures. Here’s the word about the Roach River straight from the fisheries guys. “We typically get a lot of calls this time of year asking … Continue reading Fall flows scheduled to start soon
Just a subtle reminder of what is to come
August 21, 2015 As summer sunshine warms the waters of Moosehead Lake and its tributaries trout and salmon begin retreating to the lakes seeking cooler waters in the depths of the lake. Many of the E.O. residents either drop back into Indian Pond or pass through the fish ladder into Moosehead Lake. Although fish still … Continue reading Just a subtle reminder of what is to come
MFO Season is here
August 2, 2015 MFO (Manditory Family Outing) season is upon us. Family vacations, wedding, and reunions are in full swing. SUV’s packed to the max towing a pop-up camping with three bikes lashed on top are everywhere. Outdoor living is easy and fun times are in high gear. The heat of summer in the north … Continue reading MFO Season is here
July 15-18, 2015 Our 10th Annual Project Healing Waters Outing was enjoyed by everyone involved. 9 Vets attended including Jim Bellow, Herb Macomber, Steve Rothert, Dave Nevedomsky, Mike Christensen, Jim Baker, Dwaine LaChance, Lyndon Babkirk, and Terri Perry. John Wood, Ian Cameron, Wayne Plummer, Chad Cray & Dan Legere were the participating guides for two … Continue reading
Cheeseburger Season
July 10, 2015 It’s cheeseburger season on all our rivers. There is no other time quite like it. Golden stonesflies have begun to show. They are nighttime hatches so you won’t see many around during the day. The best indicator that golden stone are around is fish start trying to eat your strike indicator when … Continue reading Cheeseburger Season
Dries all day long
July 4, 2015 July is already upon us and the monster mayflies that hatch on all the lakes and ponds are about ready to made an appearance. The great weather predicted for the coming week should get the ball rolling. Now is the time you need to baby sit your favorite haunts. The first night … Continue reading Dries all day long
Caddis, Caddis, Caddis
June 22, 2015 Caddis hatches have started on all the rivers beginning with the bright green body elk wing. They will be replaced with olive body elk wing. Caddis hatches will now continue for the rest of the summer. How fish feed on caddis can be the most difficult to figure out. Caddis become adults … Continue reading Caddis, Caddis, Caddis
The hits keep on coming
June 10, 2015 Mayflies have now been hatching for over a week on the rivers dominated by Hendrickson and Red Quill hatches. They have just about run their course though. Afternoon hatches are producing fewer bugs with less prolific lighter color mayflies now showing. There will still be some Light Cahill and March Browns around … Continue reading The hits keep on coming
It’s as good as it gets!!!
May 6, 2015 Water flows in all the river are just about perfect. Run-off from our last rain event has subsided. Hendrickson hatches are in full swing along with all the others. Blanket hatches have been happening everywhere. During one afternoon this week three different mayflies hatched and we caught trout and salmon on Hendrickson, … Continue reading It’s as good as it gets!!!
The Hay Days are here.
May 29, 2015 As a result of the summer like weather we have been experiencing water temperature in our rivers is now mayfly friendly (50 F) and Hendricksons are starting to show. Even though blanket hatches haven’t started as of yesterday enough are around to have trout and salmon looking up. Hendrickson must be like … Continue reading The Hay Days are here.
May is going fast
May 20, 2015 Fishing is well underway and plenty of fish are coming to the nets. If you’re a trout pond person you’re in for a good time. Even though major mayfly hatches haven’t kicked in just yet they are not far off. My guess is by the weekend trout will be lapping up the … Continue reading May is going fast
When the leaves on the alders ?
May 13, 2015 Conditions are improving everyday. When the leaves on the alders are the size of a mouse’s ear things begin to happen. Up to now moving water fishing hasn’t been much. The water is too dare cold. But when the buds start popping water temps rise about 40 degrees and fish perk-up and … Continue reading When the leaves on the alders ?
Let the games begin !!
May 6, 2015 The beautiful 70-80 degree weather over the last couple days destroyed what was left of the ice just about everywhere. Smelt are running all over the place so the mouth of streams and rivers are the places to be. Folks taking advantage of this window of opportunity are boating their share of … Continue reading Let the games begin !!
It won’t be long
May 1, 2015 The snow is finally gone in the woods and run-off will be coming to an end soon but that doesn’t mean it’s over just yet. With good weather predicted for the weekend smelt runs in the smaller streams will begin in earnest. A few have already begun. The issue regarding getting to … Continue reading It won’t be long
Things are coming around
April 15, 2015 Warming temperatures, rainy weather and foggy conditions are quickly changing the complexion of things in the Moosehead Lake Region. Run-off has begun in earnest and our lakes are beginning to fill with the remaining snow pack. We’re posting daily water flows for our major watersheds on our “Water Flows” page.. There is … Continue reading Things are coming around
Two more miles of Moosehead Lake shoreline protected
January 2015 In mid-December the people who have come to love the Moosehead Lake Region got an early Christmas gift of conservation. Here is what Karin Tilberg of the Forest Society of Maine had to say about this wonderful gift of conservation. Greetings ~ I am writing to share some wonderful news: the Moosehead-Seboomook Inholding … Continue reading Two more miles of Moosehead Lake shoreline protected
East Outlet Dam Operating License
November 2014 Now that the dust has settled and we have some time on our hands we thought we should post a few very informational pieces you might find interesting. To begin with we constantly explain to customers why the water flows on he East Outlet are where they are. It’s always the topic of … Continue reading East Outlet Dam Operating License
Some of the biggest fish of the season.
October 2, 2014 It’s true. The biggest fish that have spent most of there time in a lake dining on smelt and getting fat are now in a river somewhere with the urge to spawn. Magnificent hard fighting, high jumping, bronze plated salmon are now in all the pools and runs with more entering the … Continue reading Some of the biggest fish of the season.
Catch me if you can !!
September 21, 2014 The spawning runs are finally in full swing. Rivers are now full of the biggest fish of the season. Beautiful fish like the one in the photo are getting fooled by anglers everyday. It may take every trick in the book to intice one but any pool or run could hold the … Continue reading Catch me if you can !!
The stars have lined-up.
September 14, 2014 The water flows are down to very wade-able levels on the East Outlet and the Moose and have been bumped up again at the Roach. Fall conditions couldn’t be any better. Cold nights and cool days are bringing new fish into the rivers right on schedule. It’s spawning run time and new … Continue reading The stars have lined-up.
September outlook
September 4, 2014 Fall flows are starting earlier this year. Do to all the water we have left over from a summer of measurable rainfall flows are already being increased on many of the rivers. Of particular interest to many is the Roach River. First Roach Pond is essentially full so our fisheries biologist decided … Continue reading September outlook
Just a reminder
August 24, 2014 Nothing has really changed in the last week except a few maple leaves. It’s just a reminder that even though we probably still have a few summer days left the change to fall weather isn’t far away. There’s a branch here and there boasting bright foliage but the main event won’t be … Continue reading Just a reminder
Still fish to be caught
August 13, 2014 As summer sunshine warms the waters of Moosehead Lake and its tributaries trout and salmon begin retreating to the lakes seeking cooler waters in the depths of the lake. Many of the E.O. residents either drop back into Indian Pond or pass through the fish ladder into Moosehead Lake. Although fish still … Continue reading Still fish to be caught
We are in full summer mode
July 26, 2014 The heat of summer is upon us. Drake season is about over in this neighborhood and trout have retreated to their air conditioned summer homes. Somewhere in every small trout pond their is spring water entering the pond from the bottom. Because of this 55 degree spring water trout manage to survive … Continue reading We are in full summer mode
It doesn’t get much better.
July 18, 2014 The drake hatches may be winding down on the trout ponds but the river angling is still RED HOT. River water temperature continue to be in the low to mid-60’s and caddis hatches continue day after day. Big Alder flies (Zebra caddis) just keep on coming. A couple I passed on the … Continue reading It doesn’t get much better.
It’s Cheeseburger Season!!!
July 12, 2014 There are a lot of memorable times throughout the open water fishing season. We all have our favorite outings like the first Hendrickson hatch or when caddis season kicks in on the rivers and when the monster mayflies begin on our remote ponds inspiring big trout to make pigs of themselves right … Continue reading It’s Cheeseburger Season!!!
It’s Hex (Drake) Season
July 3, 2014 The Green Drakes are just beginning on many of the low elevation ponds. If you have ever had the good fortune of being on a wild brook trout pond during the beginning of Hex season you are still talking about it. Hexagenia limbata or Green Drake as we call them in Maine’ … Continue reading It’s Hex (Drake) Season
The hits just keep on coming
June 27, 2014 Our update on current fishing conditions is more of the same. It just doesn’t get any better than right now. Caddis are still hatching but mid-day hatches are beginning to fade and fewer fish found rising but every fish in the rivers is still looking up. Some days its dries all day … Continue reading The hits just keep on coming
It doesn’t get much better
June 22, 2014 The picture above says it all. This is a photo of a cove full of caddis shucks that washed down the East Outlet on a day that caddis hatched on the entire river. It is a sight to see. Unfortunately when this sort of thing happens fishermen become more of an observer … Continue reading It doesn’t get much better
Caddis, Caddis Everywhere
June 16, 2014 Caddis started hatching in earnest on the East Outlet last week. Bright green body caddis hatched the entire length of the river. It was a beautiful thing and fish responded everywhere. The same happened on the West Branch just two days ago. The olive caddis have since joined all those apple green … Continue reading Caddis, Caddis Everywhere
The stars are all lined-up. Think CADDIS!!
June 11, 2014 Mayfly hatches have started to wind down and it was a great annual event. When they first show every fish in the river wants them. Ten days later, fish begin refusing your best imitation and presentation. Talk to any other fisherman and the story’s the same. “ We can bring’em up for … Continue reading The stars are all lined-up. Think CADDIS!!
The Hendricksons are here
June 5, 2014 Water level on the East Outlet remains at excellent wading levels. The Hendrickson hatches have started in earnest and fish are eating any lookalike. Every fish in the river is looking up. The days are coming when it’ll be dries all day long. Daily hatches start around mid-day and continue until the … Continue reading The Hendricksons are here
The Hendricksons are coming
May 29, 2014 Fishing during the Memorial Day Weekend was nothing less than fabulous. Pond fishermen have been raving about the surface activity. It appears all you have to do is lay about anything on the surface, twitch it a bit and a trout will find it. Mayfly hatches have begun so a #12 Blue … Continue reading The Hendricksons are coming
Memorial Weekend Report
May 23, 2014 Everything is finally coming together nicely for the long weekend. Water flows on all the rivers are down to excellent fishing levels. The East Outlet should be around 1900 all weekend and Brassua at 650. The Roach River just saw a bump in flow to 250 cfs. That will liven up the … Continue reading Memorial Weekend Report
Water, water, everywhere
May 18, 2014 One thing we can all count on in the spring is more water than anyone needs or wants. The Kennebec River is seeing lots of water because its origin begins in the Upper Moose River drainage north of Jackman. It’s a tremendous watershed than drains a massive area beginning just south of … Continue reading Water, water, everywhere
What a difference a couple days make
May 9, 2014 It’s over, only a little ice remains. The smelt are running, the fishing is getting better everyday,and a window of opportunity just opened up. If you are a troller and want a chance at a big brookie the next two weeks will be your best chance. Try troll any smelt pattern along … Continue reading What a difference a couple days make
It won’t be long
May 6, 2014 May 6 Ice is beginning to depart from the Moosehead Region. Reports of no ice are coming in. With nice weather predicted for the next few days the winter of 2014 will soon be just a memory. The photo above is of Moosehead early this morning from the web cam on Blair … Continue reading It won’t be long
A picture is worth a thousand words
April 27, 2014 It is currently snowing in Greenville. It won’t amount to much but melting is on hold. Unfortunately we haven’t gained much on winter’s grip here in the north country. The ice has hardly budged in a week and although the snow pack has dropped considerably it is far from gone if you … Continue reading A picture is worth a thousand words
Openning day in the Moosehead Lake Region
April 6, 2014 Open water fishing season is in full swing, if you can find any. Moosehead Lake always had a May 1st opening day until this season. Because of earlier iceouts the last few years opening day was moved back to April 1st in an attempt to provide move fishing opportunity and be in … Continue reading Openning day in the Moosehead Lake Region
The year in Review – 2013
The 2013 fresh water fishing season has now come and gone and it was anything but a normal year. What appeared to be an average ice out sometime in early May was disrupted in April by a week of 70 degree weather vaporizing two feet for ice in only a few days. Ice was again … Continue reading The year in Review – 2013
October on the East Outlet
October 10, 2013 The fall draw down of Moosehead Lake is finally at the level needed for lake trout spawning activity. Yesterday waters level went from 3800 to 2000 cfs moving fish back into traditional lies. The water level is scheduled to drop even further which is welcome news for waders. The name of the … Continue reading October on the East Outlet
Only 3 days left!!
September 28, 2013 Time is getting very short for most of the waters in the Moosehead Region. But there’s still time for some fine fall fishing. Small ponds are at their best. Fish have been out of the spring holes for some time now and are on a pre-spawn feeding binge. Use traditional dries like … Continue reading Only 3 days left!!
The results are in !!
September 6, 2013 Totally different water conditions apply for good fishing in the spring than do in the fall. In the spring we want falling water levels and rising water temperatures. After high spring run-off becomes more stable and water temperatures start to rise, hatches begin and fishing gets better and better. In the fall … Continue reading The results are in !!
Fall flows starting after Labor Day
August 29, 2013 As the fall spawning season approaches and water temps begin to drop flows on most rivers are increased to attract good numbers of salmon and brookies into the rivers. Some of the biggest fish of the season will be caught from now to the end of the season. The water people make … Continue reading Fall flows starting after Labor Day
East Outlet or West Branch
August 15, 2013 If you watched the video mentioned, in our last report, of the fish ladder study at the East Outlet and how fish leave the river in search of cooler water and smelts but, we didn’t talk about what happens at the West Branch of the Penobscot. These are two very different water … Continue reading East Outlet or West Branch
Fishing holds up and water levels remain stable
August 3, 2013 Unseasonably cool weather has kept the water temperature in the river in the low to mid-60’s which is very favorable for river fishing. Combine that with good water levels on both the East Outlet and the West Branch and summer fishing is holding up well. Normally at this time of season most … Continue reading Fishing holds up and water levels remain stable
Our annual Healing Waters Fly Fishing Outing is always a great time.
July 31 Our annual Healing Waters Fly Fishing Outing was held this year on July 24-27. Eight vets from the Maine Chapter at the Togus Veterans Hospital in August attended this years outing. Maine’s Trout Unlimited member and Healing Waters representative Dave Herick headed up the program with fly tying, rod building, and casting events … Continue reading Our annual Healing Waters Fly Fishing Outing is always a great time.
MFO Season
July 25, 2013 All that HOT weather we have had in the last two week has had it’s effects on the fishing both in the ponds and on most rivers. As the drake hatches fade away and water temperatures climb into the 70’s trout make their way to their summer spring hole retreats. Somewhere in … Continue reading MFO Season
River levels are just right & the Drakes keep coming
July 12, 2013 River levels have finally become favorable for waders. Soon after the 4th water levels began to drop to where they are now. The East Outlet has been flowing at 1700 cfs for a week now and with nice weather predicted for the future great wading conditions should continue. The river is full … Continue reading River levels are just right & the Drakes keep coming
It’s Monster Mayflies Season!!
July 3, 2013 NEWS FLASH!!! The East Outlet will be dropping to 2200 cfs at noon on the 4th. It’s time to haul out the big mayflies. The Green Drake (Hex) hatches are officially underway. Shallow, lower elevation ponds are the first to pop. Deeper, higher elevation ponds will be the last to bloom often … Continue reading It’s Monster Mayflies Season!!
It’s big bug season!!
June 26, 2013 Water, water everywhere. Will it ever stop raining? Yesterday’s predicted wild weather managed to miss this area so not much rain fell around here. As a result water once again began to go down on the Moose and East Outlet as well as the West Branch of the Penobscot. We have been … Continue reading It’s big bug season!!
Better Everyday
June 17, 2013 Last week the East Outlet came down to driftable levels and we saw some fantastic spring fishing. Just as we suspected the high water brought in tons of fish, and really big ones as well! We did have a deluge of rain towards weeks end which brought water flows in the Penobscot … Continue reading Better Everyday
Caddis Caddis Caddis….River is on Fire!
June 9, 2013 Earlier in the week it was business as usual on the West Branch; streamers and nymphs, it seemed we were in the midst of the dreaded “T” word..transition. This usually happens in early June when fish haven’t quite figured out that food is on the surface. By Thursday things had changed. Caddis … Continue reading Caddis Caddis Caddis….River is on Fire!
Its June!!
Well we got what we were asking for! Rain…and a lot of it. We will hopefully begin to see water levels lower this week as long as we stay clear of measurable rain. The East Outlet, currently running at 5800cfs, is really big water! We have had some very nice fishing on the drift boats. … Continue reading Its June!!
Memorial Weekend Report – 2013
We have great, good, and a bit of bad news to report. The bad news is we have been fishing in the rain all week and probably will be for a couple more days. The good news is the fishing has been very good for fishermen willing to tough it out. Mayflies have been hatching … Continue reading Memorial Weekend Report – 2013
Fish On!
May 17, 2013 The warm weather of two weeks ago is certainly gone and temperatures have returned to standard issue in the northwoods ie…cold! Water temperatures have also returned to normal so there is no need to worry about the water warming to quickly. Water levels are still low, but the good news is the … Continue reading Fish On!
Things are off and running
May 10, 2013 Smelt have been spawning hard in all the major rivers in the Moosehead Lake Region. Despite the lower water flow on the East Outlet there are fish everywhere. I ran it for the first time Wednesday with two customers, Gary & Elizabeth Herbert from Tennessee. In the first half hour they caught … Continue reading Things are off and running
Life begins again!!!
April 29 The weather took a turn for the better last week with daytime temperatures in the high 60’s that vaporized a lot of snow and ice. Moosehead Lake was called out yesterday the 28th. Word is coming in lakes well north of here are ice free as well. With a forecast for more of … Continue reading Life begins again!!!
A slow start to the 2013 Season
April 15, 2013 It’s a very slow start to the 2013 open water fishing season in the Moosehead Lake Region. Winter doesn’t want to give it up with additional snowfall just a couple days ago. Daytime temperatures haven’t warmed enough to begin any significant run-off. The lakes and ponds are still buttoned up tight with … Continue reading A slow start to the 2013 Season
2012 – Year in Review
November 1 2012 was an extraordinary year in the Moosehead Lake Region in many ways. Before the open water fishing season got underway the Maine Supreme Court upheld LURC’s decision to approve the Plum Creek Plan. Although their development plans will take years to engineer the historic conservation component that protected nearly 400,000 acres from … Continue reading 2012 – Year in Review
Our Calendar Girl
October 5 Lauri Boucher is our star fisherman of this fall. She has been reeking havoc on the East Outlet salmon. Laurie and her husband Rich are official members of the Hoover Vacuum Team. The photo above is just one of many she hauled in the other day on the East Outlet. Ask Laurie and … Continue reading Our Calendar Girl
All smiles on the East Outlet
September 9 The proof is in the net. Rich and Laurie Boucher had a fine day of fall fishing conditions on the East Outlet of the Kennebec this September 6th, just a couple of days after the river got a shot of water. The 19″ salmon in the photo is just one of many salmon … Continue reading All smiles on the East Outlet
Fall is Here!!!
September 5 Well, we have finally got what we have been looking for over the past few weeks….water!! The fall flows have begun at most of the dams so this should mean plenty of fresh fish entering the rivers as we speak! Overnight we also saw well over 2 inches of rain fall, and this … Continue reading Fall is Here!!!
Fall is Near!!
August 29 We are so close to escaping the dog days of summer, this morning it was a whopping 45 degrees out, perfect weather to start bringing down those water temperatures. While most of the water in the area is fairly low this week, everything will change with the approach of Labor Day. Water levels … Continue reading Fall is Near!!
East Outlet vs. West Branch
August 1 In last weeks fishing report we discussed the fish ladder in the East Outlet and how fish leave the river in search of cooler water and smelts but, we didn’t talk about what happens at the West Branch of the Penobscot. These are two very different water systems. While the East Outlet has … Continue reading East Outlet vs. West Branch
East Outlet Fish Ladder Study conducted by Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Department
July 22 You may recall I mentioned in an earlier “Fishing Report” that our local fisheries biologists would be conducting a study of the fish using the fish ladder at the East Outlet dam. The study has been going on for a long time and every few years our biologists monitor the passage of fish … Continue reading East Outlet Fish Ladder Study conducted by Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Department
Wounded Warriors spend a week on Moosehead Lake
July 21 Earlier in July we had the great honor of guiding a group of 5 active duty soldiers from Walter Reed Military Hospital. We got to spend three days with the guys fishing the West Branch of the Penobscot, Indian Pond and the East Outlet. The week long trip was sponsored by the Wounded … Continue reading Wounded Warriors spend a week on Moosehead Lake
Summer Fishing!!
July 13 The hot and humid days of summer have finally reached us here up at Moosehead. Although the temperatures aren’t quite as warm as further south, we are still seeing temps in the upper 80’s!!! The water at the east outlet has remained relatively high and this is definately a blessing as the bigger … Continue reading Summer Fishing!!
Stones and Caddis!
June 29 While the “blanket” caddis hatches of early June have subsided we have begun to transition quite nicely to our summer stonefly hatches. Stonefly nymphs and stonefly adults are prolific this time of year, however what is even more exciting is that “anything goes” season is here. That means the biggest, weirdest, ugliest looking … Continue reading Stones and Caddis!
Everything is Where it Should Be
June 14 The photo above of John Paul, age 10, with one of the beautiful salmon he caught while fishing with his dad on a guided trip with Josh. Nothing but smiles, rumor has it he boated eight fish on their Fly Fishing 101 trip on the East Outlet. Surprise surprise! It is June 14th … Continue reading Everything is Where it Should Be
The Caddis are Coming!
May 31 Well the first chapter of our fishing season is about to end and a very exciting chapter is ahead…dry flies!! Right now we are in a little bit of a transition time, the fish aren’t quite sure if they’re ready to look up for food, or to keep their heads down. Just when … Continue reading The Caddis are Coming!
Hendricksons, Red Quills & Fish, Fish, Fish!!!
May 25 The results are in. The survey says the mayfly hatches are in full swing. It doesn’t really matter where you are, all the fish are now looking up. Ponds are in full bloom. Show-up on any remote trout pond with a hand full of Adams, Blue Dunns, and Black Gnats and you’re “In … Continue reading Hendricksons, Red Quills & Fish, Fish, Fish!!!
Fish On!!
May 19 If May is any indication, we are looking to have a fantastic fishing season! The water levels have come down across the area, all the rivers are at wadable levels and the fishing is great. This is definately one of our favorite times of year the to fish. With smelt runs over but … Continue reading Fish On!!
All the stars are lining up.
May 3 After the false start that had everyone excited about some very early season fishing a week or so ago April managed to returned with rainy days and typical daytime temperatures in the low 40’s. We saw snow flurries a couple of times. What the return of traditional April weather did was stall the … Continue reading All the stars are lining up.
Ever have a peek into a fish’s mouth?
April 23, 2012 The ice has officially left the region, the smelts are running all over the place, and life as we love it is slowly returning to the north country. There is no doubt this season has started earlier than most but we are not all that far ahead in this region. Smelt runs … Continue reading Ever have a peek into a fish’s mouth?
NEWS FLASH!! The East Outlet has finally come down to 1800 cfs!!!
The East Outlet finally was dropped to 1800 cfs yesterday and is predicted to stay there at least through the weekend. I need say no more than the river is full of salmon from end to the other. We’ve been fishing it through the high water and I must say I can’t remember when I … Continue reading NEWS FLASH!! The East Outlet has finally come down to 1800 cfs!!!
Big Water…Big Fish
Well, we are still experiencing higher than average flows on the East Outlet, it is currently at 5900cfs. This is big time water. We have been running the river with the drift boats and managing to do quite well. The river is full of fish and with bigger water they are pushed into tighter spots. … Continue reading Big Water…Big Fish
Its Go Time !!!!
Fall has begun on the Roach River! While the area didn’t see a deluge of rain as was predicted, we still got in the neighborhood of three inches. While most of the area river flows stayed stable the Roach River got pounded with a heavy release and lots of fresh fish in the river. Two … Continue reading Its Go Time !!!!
The worm is turning……
August 16 Our story this week begins with water temperatures…they’re finally started down! For the past 4 weeks or so we have been dealing with water that has been well over 70 degrees. We are finally starting the turn around and seeing water in the 60’s. If you look back at our fishing reports from … Continue reading The worm is turning……
NREC Annual Outing
August 7 All the smiling faces above are the result of NREC’s (Natural Resource Education Center) Annual Indian Pond Outing. This year over 20 kids, ranging in age from 6-14 signed up for a day of fishing with Dan, our regional fisheries biologists, and local volunteers. The day started with a fly casting demonstration and … Continue reading NREC Annual Outing
Project Healing Waters 2011
August 2 Last week the Maine Guide Fly Shop took part in the annual Project Healing Waters outing! Project Healing Waters is a nationwide program, paired with Trout Unlimited, that provides fly fishing instruction for disabled veterans. This is a wonderful program that allows patients of Togus Veterans Hospital to spend a couple of days … Continue reading Project Healing Waters 2011
Stonelflies, Caddis and Dries…Oh My!!
July 12 Topwater fishing season is in full swing with the arrival of stoneflies this week. Water levels and water temps are perfect considering that we are well into the second week of July. The river has been running consistently between 1500- 1900 cfs, this is ideal for both wading as well as holding fish. … Continue reading Stonelflies, Caddis and Dries…Oh My!!
Tarantulas & Drakes
July 5 As expected fishing has remained excellent at the East Outlet of the Kennebec through the first week in July. Water levels have remained steady and water temps are still cool (62 degrees). This is quite a departure from this time last year when the water was tetering at the 70 degree mark. Caddis … Continue reading Tarantulas & Drakes
Fish On !!
June 22 Caddis season is in full swing right now and this is the time we have been waiting all year for. Hatches have been steady on all the rivers and almost anytime of day, morning and evening of course being prime feeding times. We are seeing a large variety of caddis species and size … Continue reading Fish On !!
Summer has arrived!
June 8 Our rainy days of May have finally passed and this past week we have been experiencing some phenomenal weather! Abundant sunshine and temps in the 70’s ,feels really nice after our cold and rainy spring. Water levels on the rivers have also subsided. The east outlet is currently running at 3700 cfs which … Continue reading Summer has arrived!
Finding Fishing Opprotunities During High Water
May 21 Rain has definately been the story of May, and we are hoping that story will end with the beginning of June tomorrow! Unfortunately rain dominated the forecast over the Memorial Day weekend and has left us some extremely high rivers, the east outlet topped out at a little over 13,000 cfs yesterday, I … Continue reading Finding Fishing Opprotunities During High Water
Early Season Fishing!
May 11 The snow has finally released its grip on the Moosehead area! Smelt runs are in full gear, and water temps are hovering near the 45 degree mark in most lakes, ponds , and rivers. Everything is falling into place, now we are just waiting for those water levels to start to decrease a … Continue reading Early Season Fishing!
Ice is officially out !!!
May 6, 2011 Ice has left the north country for another season. It was officially called out @ Moosehead on Wednesday and quickly disappeared everywhere else in the last few days although there are still plenty of snow drifts left in areas where the sun does reach. With the measurable rain we had this week … Continue reading Ice is officially out !!!
Brook Trout Study Continues on the Roach River
October 20 – The Moosehead Lake Brook trout study continued last fall with an intense study of the Roach River spawning run. In late August our local fisheries biologists relocated the weir from Socatean Stream, on the western side of the lake, to the Roach River. The intentions of this study is to observe, close hand, … Continue reading Brook Trout Study Continues on the Roach River
What a strong finish !!
October 1 – The last week of the regular season ended with a bang. Even though rain tried to dampen some spirits it came mainly at night and the increased waters flow just brought in more fish. As usual the rivers were all full of beautiful fall salmon and trout. The fisheries biologists are conducting a … Continue reading What a strong finish !!
Two Weeks Left!!!!( And We Now Have Water!!!)
September 15 – The Roach River has finally seen its annual charge of water, as expected it has been raised to 150cfs, not a lot of water but certainly enough to pull a charge of fish into the river. Combined with some real cold temperatures and rain this should be a great combo for fall … Continue reading Two Weeks Left!!!!( And We Now Have Water!!!)
Lets Talk Fall
September 7 – Leaves are starting to turn and a lot of out of state plates are headed south…must be September! So far the fall started off with a bang, 5 days of 80 almost 90 degree weather capped off with the remnants of a hurricane that brought some much needed rain. As discussed in previous … Continue reading Lets Talk Fall
Fall is around the corner
August 11 – It looks as if our water temps have finally peaked a couple of weeks ago and we are beginning to finally see the temperatures on the decline. Our area has seen some very cool nights and rain in the past week or so which is a good thing. Some of the trees in … Continue reading Fall is around the corner
Our Annual Project Healing Waters Fishing Trip
July 28-31 We held our annual Healing Waters Fishing Trip on July 28-31. Seven disabled veterans; Everett Butler (Sonny), Alan Johnston, John Rogers, Wes Cumming, Stan Munson, Jerry Gilbert and Pete Sargent attended this years outing. Teri Olson, recreation director at Togus Veteran’s Hospital organized the group and Bruce Bowman with Trout Unlimited was also … Continue reading Our Annual Project Healing Waters Fishing Trip
The East Outlet gets a new run of fish
July 3 – The heavy rains that fell last week put the lake level on Moosehead over the top. As a result water had to be dumped and flows went to 3400 cfs, making it almost nearly impossible to wade. This amount of water does have its positive effects though. In general salmon love big water … Continue reading The East Outlet gets a new run of fish
Green Drakes
June 29 – The Green Drakes (Hex) have finally started in a few spots. Now is the time you had better be baby sitting your favorite haunts. The first night of the hatch can be magical. The biggest trout in the pond are on top and making pigs of themselves. Lay out anything that resembles those … Continue reading Green Drakes
Nothing but net!!
May 7 – Fishing traffic was light this week but most fishermen I talked to had nothing but good things to say. It appear the smelt run was earlier than normal on the Moose River. No surprise. Fish are already throughout the river and all the way to the dam. Someone called here the other … Continue reading Nothing but net!!
The regions trout ponds are true jewels
May 3 – Now that the ice has made an early retreat and the river are a bit too high and cold to fish give one of our many wild brook trout pond a try. In the Moosehead Lake region we have an inventory of wild brook trout ponds that, for the most part go … Continue reading The regions trout ponds are true jewels
A dedicated guides first outing
April 4, 2010 Ian Cameron has been guiding for us forever and is drawn to the rivers as soon as spring shows. Here is the account of his first outing of the new season. Ian and Bamboo Bob’s Excellent Fishing Adventure Friday, April 2 was a gorgeous blue bird day in Greenville. With temperatures close … Continue reading A dedicated guides first outing
Winter reports
During the winter months, while the region is in a deep freeze and there isn’t any reporting to be done, our “Fishing Report” page remains very idle. This off season we will be posting articles of interest about what’s going on behind the scenes that often goes unnoticed. There is always ongoing research to further … Continue reading Winter reports
Maine’s Black Bear Research Program
February 5 – While fishing with customers I often chat about the natural wonders of nature all around us and that there is much more to a day spent in the back country of Maine than just the fish. During our off season another dedicated group is very busy trudging through the woods looking after those … Continue reading Maine’s Black Bear Research Program
Moosehead Lake wild brook trout study
January 2010 – The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is partnering with NextEra Energy, The Natural Resource Education Center at Moosehead, and Plum Creek to conduct a two year study of the wild brook trout population in Moosehead Lake. Moosehead Lake is a 75,000 acre oligotrophic lake with wild brook trout, lake trout, … Continue reading Moosehead Lake wild brook trout study
The East Outlet Rules!!!
October 3 – The East Outlet flow is now at 1000 cfs and will probably stay that way for awhile. You can literally fish anywhere in the entire river. Bring your full bag of tricks. Fish this time of season have their mind on each other and not so much on food. Hatch season is over … Continue reading The East Outlet Rules!!!
Last Call !!!
September 25 – Last Call! Can you believe the summer is over? It feels like it never started, but there are only 5 more days left in the regular open water fishing season. Remember that the East Outlet will remain open for an extended catch and release season beginning October 1st. The way this fall has … Continue reading Last Call !!!
T-Minus 12 Days!!
September 17 – 12 more days to go until the end of open water fishing for most waters!! The East Outlet has been fishing well as of late, we are beginning to see some of the larger spawning fish enter the river. As of yesterday the water temperature was 58 degrees, we have had some very … Continue reading T-Minus 12 Days!!
Water temperature already dropping
August 30 – It’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride this summer with water levels bouncing all over the place. The plug on the Roach River had to be pulled earlier for a time. All that did was pull in more salmon for the upper pools. It’s currently flowing at 115 cfs but will … Continue reading Water temperature already dropping
Water levels back to wadable levels
July 18 As you can see in the photo above Emily Farley was a very happy camper when she drifted a pair of dries at the head of a pool, on a guided trip at the East Outlet, and hooked not one but a pair of nice brookies. This doesn’t happen very often. Way to … Continue reading Water levels back to wadable levels
Caddis, Caddis, Everywhere
June 15 It’s caddis, caddis, caddis everywhere now. If this says anything about how fish love caddis I had customers on the West Branch below Rip Dam the other day and they brought up over 100 fish to caddis imitations. Every fish in the river loves to eat caddis. For a while it’ll be elk … Continue reading Caddis, Caddis, Everywhere
Big Bugs for Big Bass
June 10 Smallmouth bass season is just upon us. Although we have had some fantastic daytime tempertures, into the seventies, the night time temps have not really sustained an overall warm up in water temperatures. For bass to begin the spawning ritual we really need to see water tempertures hold in the low sixties. Large … Continue reading Big Bugs for Big Bass
The Hendricksons are Here!!!
May 26 Code Red! As you can see from the picture the mayflies are out in swarms!! Okay, the picture is an exageration but the hendricksons are finally here, and we couldn’t be happier. Still plan on swinging streamers and working nymph patterns, but make sure you bring your dry flies when you head up … Continue reading The Hendricksons are Here!!!
Iceout won’t be long.
April 22 Ice still remains on our lakes and ponds but it won’t be long before we’re be back on open water. The great weather predicted for the upcoming weekend should gobble up most of the remaining ice. Here is a preseason fishing forecast from our regional fisheries department. I thought you would find it … Continue reading Iceout won’t be long.
October on the East Outlet
October 7 Even with the cold mornings and the winds of fall the East Outlet is a wonderful place to finish out the season. Water flow is at 1000 cfs so wading is easy, you can even wade across the river in places. We are earning every fish and you do need a big bag … Continue reading October on the East Outlet
October fishing opportunities
October 1 Fishing season maybe over for most of the waters in the Moosehead Lake Region but there still are opportunities for some great late season fishing. Fishing ends in most wild brook trout waters the last day of September for one simple reason, it’s brook trout spawning time. Around mid-October native brookies begin their … Continue reading October fishing opportunities
The Roach River will start to see fall flows
August 29 The Roach River is scheduled to get an increase in water flow after Labor Day. There is plenty of water in 1st Roach Pond so it will go to around 200 cfs to start and get another bump to around 250 about mid-month. Because of the abundance of water these levels are more … Continue reading The Roach River will start to see fall flows
Project Healing Waters is great fun for everyone involved
August 4, 2006 Although there are nice fish in all the rivers and most of the pools, we are using a big bag of tricks to pull a few rabbits out of the hat. Take the East Outlet, water level at present is as good as it gets for wading, 1300 cfs. There are still … Continue reading Project Healing Waters is great fun for everyone involved
There is no better time to learn about a river
4/11/08 -The East Outlet is at minimum flows as the water people start to fill Moosehead with the remaining run-off. The river will never be any lower than it is right now. What an opportunity to learn a river. It will become obvious why you catch fish where you do. You might even find a … Continue reading There is no better time to learn about a river
