Wild Brook Trout Fly Fishing at Lakewood Camps, Maine | Rise Fishing Co.

In late May 2024, we teamed up with Deep Ocean Apparel for an exciting photo shoot in the scenic Rangeley area of Northwest Maine. Deep Ocean Apparel is known for its lifestyle shirts, performance fishing wear, and an outstanding roll-top dry bag. Ian Trefley, one of the owners of Lakewood Camps, invited us for an unforgettable brook trout fishing experience on the Rapid River, one of the few remaining places in the country with wild brook trout that grow over 20 inches long.

A Glimpse into History: Lakewood Camps boasts a rich history dating back 171 years. While there's no direct power supply, generators provide running water and electricity until 9:30 PM. This historic sporting camp, renowned for fishing and hunting, offers a unique chance to connect with nature. Imagine waking up to the calls of loons and the sight of an occasional moose strolling by. The rustic cabins add to the charm, making you wish the walls could share the countless stories of anglers and their prized catches.

Our Fishing Experience: Although we only had a couple of days to fish, we managed to catch several brook trout and landlocked Atlantic salmon. Despite the high spring water, our guide, Will, expertly navigated us to areas where the fish were holding. We utilized our Dredge Series 10’ 3wt for euro nymphing and our River Series 9’ 4wt and 5wts for throwing streamers and nymph rigs under indicators.

Koby Fulks, co-owner of Rise Fishing, had the hot hand during this trip, perhaps showing off for his wife, who joined us. Koby tight-lined some impressive brook trout, with the largest measuring around 18.5 inches. Mike, the owner of Deep Ocean Apparel, also caught several nice brook trout and landlocked salmon, using a leech under an indicator. Both euro nymphing and two-fly indicator setups proved productive. While we were a bit early for the sucker spawn, which draws out the really big brook trout from the lake, the fishing was still exceptional.

The Allure of the Rapid River: The Rapid River is a must-visit for any avid angler. Access is challenging—if you're not staying at Lakewood Camps, it's a long hike, especially to reach the lower section. The prospect of catching a brook trout over 20 inches is exhilarating. Stories and photos of fish up to 27 inches add to the river’s legendary status.

Plan Your Trip: Lakewood Camps and the Rapid River offer a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and world-class fishing. Whether you're euro nymphing or using traditional setups, the opportunity to catch wild brook trout in such a pristine environment is unparalleled. If you’re looking for an authentic and rewarding fishing adventure, Lakewood Camps in Maine should be at the top of your list.