Although I grew up in New Hampshire, I really learned how to fly-fish on the brook trout and landlocked salmon rivers of Maine. Twice a year, in spring and fall, I’d head north with my friends Fred and Sandy Hays–a.k.a. The Wretched Hays Boys–for three days on tumbling freestone streams, where the fish grew big and fought hard. I’ll never forget how the very first landlock I ever hooked went airborne before I had time to set the hook and then proceeded to jump seven more times before I got it to the net.
So when my colleagues at Orvis Adventures asked me if I’d like to host Orvis Week at Libby Camps, I jumped at the chance. Located on the shores of Millinocket Lake in northern Maine–just above Baxter State Park–the camp has been in operation since 1890 and offers a true wilderness experience, with fly-out trips to nearby rivers inaccessible by road. I fished their in September 2019, and I’ve been dying to get back ever since.
Orvis and Libbys have worked together to create this unique trip to highlight this special region during a particularly productive time of the season. Late spring offers an abundance of fishing opportunities on the ponds and rivers nearby. In addition, this package includes two fly-out fishing days to more remote water for each angler. You’ll have the opportunity to target native brook trout and landlocked salmon with dry flies, nymphs, and streamers.
Orvis Week runs from May 20-26. I asked longtime guide Jeff Labree what anglers could expect at this time of year, and he explained that it’s the best time for flowing water, with good river levels and with plenty of cold water that will hold decent fish. The main hatches are blue-winged olives and caddisflies, and although flying ants will be just finishing, it’s still worth having a few imitations on hand. There will be shots at brook trout and salmon in the 16 to 22 inch range, as well as arctic char up to 24 inches.
I’ll be there to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible, to offer advice and instruction if needed, and swap stories after the day’s fishing is done. So join me for this unique opportunity to step back in time and experience Northeastern fishing the way it’s supposed to be: truly wild.
Orvis Week at Libby Camps: May 20-16, 2023
Click here to learn more or to book your spot on this exciting adventure.
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