Trout fishing is picking up in Rangeley with early hatches emerging over the last few weeks. The early season mayflies consist of an assortment of Blue-winged Olives, March Browns, Quill Gordons, Hendricksons, Black Quills, and early caddis and little stoneflies, depending on where you are. Trout are still rising to midges as well.

We tangled with some really nice brook trout that had ascended rivers and streams following spawning smelt or suckers, migrating baitfish, or early hatching mayflies.

Of course, smallmouth bass and largemouth bass fishing is fast and furious as well. Stripers are everywhere. I am hearing reports of large numbers of bass in the coastal rivers and estuaries in Mcoast Maine – a less fished but awesome fishery in the late spring.

Of course, as an avid gardener, I am torn between wanting to fish as much as possible but also spend time in my gardens….