Key Species: brown trout, brook trout, landlocked salmon
Best Way to Fish: wading
Best Time to Fish: May and June
MAG: 2, A-2
Description: This freestone river has occasional deep, slow runs and long pools. The river receives annual stockings of brook trout and brown trout and in 1993 and 1994, 792 landlocked salmon were stocked. Special regulations apply here. The fishing season runs from April 1 through October 31. Artificial lures only are allowed and all trout caught must be released alive at once. Be sure to read the open-water fishing regulations before fishing.
A large portion of the Little Ossipee River is contained within the Vern Walker Wildlife Management Area, public land managed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.
Fishing index: This heavily stocked river is a fly fisher’s paradise, with its wide variety of conditions, ranging from beaver ponds to fast riffles. An 8- or 9-foot, 5- or 6-weight rod will serve well here. Be sure to use a leader of at least 12 feet and carry some fine tippet material, stuff down to 2-pound test. May is the absolute best month and June still offers good fishing. Bring plenty of mayfly patterns, especially red quills and Hendricksons, as well as an assortment of caddis patterns. After the mayfly hatches, slow down and switch to terrestrial patterns.
Spin fishers should use ultralight spinning rods and line no heavier than 4-pound test. Try small Mepps spinners, small Flash Kings in gold and orange, and small Dardevles.
Directions: From Sanford, take Maine Route 11 north to North Shapleigh. In North Shapleigh, take the Mann Road on the right. Park in the lot at the end of the Mann Road. You can fish upstream and downstream from this point.
For more information: Call the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Regional Office in Gray.
Little Ossipee River Photo Gallery
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