Wilson's Mills Sectionon Androscoggin River (Upper)
Streamer fishing remains the most effective tactic
- 01Streamer fishing remains the most effective tactic, targeting aggressive prespawn Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Landlocked Salmon.
- 02Egg patterns are crucial this time of year, especially in areas below potential spawning grounds.
- 03Versatile nymphs such as Hare's Ear and Zebra Midges will entice subsurface feeders in colder currents.
- 04On overcast afternoons, keep an eye out for potential Blue-Winged Olive hatches for opportunistic dry fly action.
- 05Focus efforts by wading into the river and casting streamers along river edges and through the hypnotizing eddies and fast riffles, particularly below dams for consistent action.
What to tie on at Wilson's Mills Section
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Gray Ghost
A historically effective and locally recommended streamer pattern for migrating Landlocked Salmon in the spring. Strip or swing it through known salmon lies.
Mother's Day Caddis
This prolific hatch is expected in late April through May, making this dry fly a perfect imitation for adult caddis actively emerging now.
Hendrickson
Hendricksons are a key early spring hatch. Look for these medium-sized mayflies to bring fish to the surface, particularly during warmer afternoon periods.
Buy at AmazonMarch Brown Dry
March Browns are actively hatching in early spring, making this a primary dry fly for rising trout in the slower sections and eddies.
Black Woolly Bugger
A slow-stripped or dead-drifted black streamer imitates leeches and sculpins, which are active even in colder spring water. It's a high-percentage searching pattern for larger trout and salmon.
Blue-Winged Olive Comparadun
Blue-Winged Olives are actively hatching in early spring, especially on overcast days. This low-profile dry fly is excellent for selective trout feeding on emergers and adults.
Flashback Hare's Ear Nymph
An excellent general searching nymph for early spring, mimicking various active mayfly nymphs, including Baetis, that are abundant in the drift.
Prince Nymph
A versatile year-round attractor nymph, effective in all water types, mimicking stonefly and mayfly nymphs active in the spring flows.
Buy at AmazonIsonychia Dun
Isonychia are actively hatching in freestone rivers during the summer, making this a prime pattern for rising trout and salmon.
Maine season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.