South Shore Inlet (Sandy River Inlet)on Rangeley Lake
Conditions right now
No USGS gauge is linked to this water yet, so we can't chart flows.
What's working on Rangeley Lake
- 01Cool 44°F temperatures and overcast skies creating classic fall fishing conditions.
- 02Subsurface activity is key, with midges, scuds, and baitfish (smelt) being primary food sources.
- 03Fall spawning activities are making egg patterns highly effective for opportunistic feeders.
- 04Recommended flies: Milt's Pond Smelt (#14), Black Ghost Streamer (#6), Olive Woolly Bugger (#6), Blood Dot Egg (#12), Zebra Midge (#20), Mysis Shrimp (#16), October Caddis (#8).
- 05Focus efforts on deeper water, points, shoals, and areas near tributary mouths.
- 06Slow, deliberate retrieves with pauses are crucial for enticing strikes in colder water.
What to tie on at South Shore Inlet (Sandy River Inlet)
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
Zebra Midge
Midges are a primary and consistent food source in cold water environments like Rangeley Lake year-round, making this a reliable subsurface pattern for finicky fish.
Buy at AmazonMilt's Pond Smelt
Trout and salmon are actively feeding on pond smelt, a primary fall food source in large lakes like Rangeley. This pattern effectively mimics them.
Blood Dot Egg
Fall is spawning season for trout and salmon, making egg patterns highly effective as fish become opportunistic feeders on dislodged eggs.
Buy at AmazonMysis Shrimp
Mysis shrimp are a consistent and important food source for trout and salmon in deep, cold lakes year-round. Fishing this pattern dead drift near the bottom is highly effective.
Buy at AmazonBalanced Leech
The balanced design allows this fly to sit horizontally and move with the slightest water fluctuation, making it deadly for lethargic winter trout when suspended.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge
Midges are the most consistent food source in cold Maine lakes throughout the winter. A size 18-22 in black or red is a staple for both Brook Trout and Rainbows.
Buy at AmazonBlack Ghost
A historically effective streamer for migrating Landlocked Salmon in spring on similar regional lakes.
Gray Ghost
Another historically proven streamer pattern for migrating Landlocked Salmon in spring on regional lakes.
Mother's Day Caddis
The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May, making this dry fly a perfect imitation for adult caddis.
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.