Late-season angling brings many advantages, as cooling temperatures and shorter days sharpen fish appetites. With the sun rising later, cooler air temperatures, and a reduction in biting bugs, the experience becomes more pleasant for anglers. A recent trip to the edge of Thoreau’s Maine Woods showcased just how appealing late summer and autumn fishing can be.
Recently, Bob LaRoche, a landscape architect and Maine resident, extended an invitation for a camping trip to secret brook trout ponds, accompanied by his friend Cliff Curtis. On Friday, September 13, Bob, Cliff, and a companion headed north, following part of the route Benedict Arnold and his troops had taken during their historic invasion of Canada. Once off the paved roads, the journey continued on neglected paper-company gravel paths, requiring four-wheel drive vehicles for the rough terrain.
Upon arrival at the campsite, they found that Cliff’s friend, Pete Belanger, had arrived earlier and already set up part of the camp. Pete shared news of his fishing success, having caught four brook trout over a foot long, reinforcing the productivity of late-season fishing. He remarked that his success during this trip surpassed what he experienced just two weeks earlier.
Later that afternoon, the group ventured to the same pond where Pete had fished earlier. The body of water, large enough to be considered a lake, provided a scenic backdrop as they began their outing. Fishing was initially slow, but after a pause to reapply sunscreen, the group moved to a remote cove, where the action picked up, resulting in several hooked and missed fish.
When the fish stopped biting, the group decided to switch flies. A nymph fly, crafted by Cliff Curtis in a pattern called “Candy Bar” with glittering tinsel resembling a Snickers bar, proved to be an excellent choice. While retrieving the nymph, a solid hit on the line signaled the presence of a brook trout. As the fish rose to the surface, its size became clear. Pete skillfully netted the 15-inch trout—the largest catch of the trip.
This particular pond, like others in the region, operates under a state-mandated slot limit. Anglers are required to release fish that fall outside a specific size range, ensuring the sustainability of the fishery. The brook trout caught that day exceeded the slot, so it was carefully and quickly released.
As the evening approached, fishing became more active. Fish began rising to the surface, eagerly pursuing insects. In one notable moment, a small brook trout leaped six inches out of the water in pursuit of a dragonfly nearly its own size. The group caught and kept a few legal-sized fish for dinner, releasing many more throughout the day. The number of short strikes became too numerous to count.
Over the next two days, the group explored other ponds and a stream flowing from the main pond, with each angler landing fish every day. Even smaller fish provided consistent action, making the trip enjoyable for everyone. Cliff utilized a high-tech device that combined GPS, fish-finder, and sonar capabilities to locate fish and create a detailed map of the pond bottoms. This equipment provided valuable insights into where fish were likely to congregate.
The trip also served as a reminder of the importance of preparation. Bob, who frequently camps, had meticulously pre-packed his camping equipment, allowing for quick and easy setup. Cliff and Pete, both familiar with the ponds and streams, shared their knowledge of local fishing spots. While it’s easy to be well-prepared for familiar waters, venturing into new terrain requires extra attention to detail. For instance, bringing appropriate gear, such as a warm jacket and a sink-tip fly line, can make a significant difference.
A key takeaway from the experience is the value of having knowledgeable companions or reliable sources for advice. Local fly patterns, provided by Cliff and Pete, contributed to the group’s success on the water. For those without local connections, hiring a Registered Maine Guide can greatly enhance the fishing experience. Such expertise can ensure that anglers are aware of local regulations, recommended fly patterns, and the best fishing locations.
The rugged terrain of Maine also highlighted the importance of appropriate vehicles for accessing remote fishing spots. Four-wheel drive vehicles were essential for navigating poorly maintained roads. Bob and Cliff shared past experiences of rescuing a friend’s two-wheel drive truck, which had become stuck on similar roads.
The trip underscored the idea that fishing is about more than just catching fish. On the way home, the group stopped at a scenic rest area, a project Bob had managed during his time with the Maine Department of Transportation. The breathtaking views, with maple trees turning red and yellow along the shoreline, resembled a scene from a Winslow Homer painting. The ponds and streams looked like they had been lifted directly from Homer’s “October Day,” while red canoes used during the trip brought to mind his famous watercolor, “The Red Canoe.”
For those unable to make the journey to Maine, plenty of picturesque fishing spots can be found closer to home. Even parts of Rensselaer County have a landscape reminiscent of the Great North Woods, offering a similar fishing experience without the long drive. However, the Maine trip remains a memorable adventure, thanks to the camaraderie, scenic beauty, and successful fishing.
Image/Source: altamontenterprise
