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Fishing

Since 1853, generations of fly fishing enthusiasts and their families have made Lakewood Camps their go-to destination for memorable fly fishing, family-friendly fun, and place to reconnect with nature. After just one trip, you’ll be hooked.

Fishing Areas & Local Species

Our region is the leader in fly fishing. Along the Rapid River, and the nearby Richardson Lakes and Rangeley Lakes, you can take your pick of hundreds of prime spots to cast your cares aside as you fish like you’ve never fished before. In addition to our famous wild brook trout, you may also wind up with a lake trout and landlocked salmon.

Fishing Season

Our prime fishing season runs from mid-May to the end of September/early October each year.

Exclusive Access

Lakewood Camps is the only sporting camp on the Rapid River that is open to the public. Leave your car, and your cares, behind in South Arm as you climb aboard our complimentary shuttle boat. As soon as you come ashore to Lakewood Camps, the beauty of our location is as clear as the river that our property faces.

Retrace the steps of generations of fishing enthusiasts as you walk the age-old paths on both sides of the river to access the water. If you’re looking for an even more remote casting point, catch our shuttle to go even farther downstream. At the end of the day, retire to your comfortable cabin right here on the property and enjoy the home-cooked meal we’ve prepared just for you.

Brook Trout

This gorgeous trout species — one of the most prized catches among fly fishers and anglers alike — is found almost exclusively in Maine. In fact, according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Maine is the stronghold of heritage brook trout waters. An estimated 93 percent of the wild brook trout in America make the crystal clear waters of Maine — especially the Rapid River — their home.

Thanks to the preservation of this species through the State of Maine’s mandatory catch-and-release program, our guests enjoy a long line of picture-perfect results year after year.

Recommended Equipment

  • Both 5 and 6 weight rods with floating and sinking lines (these will allow you to make adjustments as the water flow changes)
  • Long tapered leaders (9–12 feet)
  • Tippets (3x to 5x)
  • Wading staff, wading belt, waders, & wading boots (felt bottoms or non-slip soles),
  • Personal flotation device (PFD)
  • Flashlight/headlamp for twilight fishing
  • Hat (with brim)
  • Flies
    Dry Flies – Caddis, Wulfs, Stimulator, Hornberg
    Streamers – Grey Ghost, Black Ghost, Green Ghost, Barnes Special
    Nymphs – Strawman, Alder, May Fly, Pheasant Tail

Fishing Laws & Rules

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

  • Brook trout (fly fishing only) — Catch and Release
  • Landlocked salmon — Bag limit three per day (12 inches or longer)
  • Special regulations posted for Pond in the River, and fishing after September 15
  • General law trolling
  • No live bait
  • Brook trout — Allowed 2 (minimum 10 inches, only one can exceed 12 inches)
  • Salmon — Allowed 2 (14 inches or longer)
  • Lake trout (togue) – Allowed 2 (18 inches or longer)

Maine Residents & Non-residents

Rapid River Fishing Report

We’re proud to be a trusted source for Orvis Fishing Reports.

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