Across northern New England, fishing for landlocked salmon and springtime go together like baked beans and franks. Challenging these silver-sided fighters in moving water is the pinnacle of the fishing season for many anglers. If nothing else, it's a most exciting way to get the season started.

Here is a look at five of the best salmon rivers the region has to offer:

MAINE
Grand Lake Stream
Maine's Grand Lake Stream is well-known for its fall salmon fishing, but its early-season action can be second to none. The stream opens to fishing April 1, but high, cold water conditions are not always conducive to good fishing at that time, especially when wading.

From opening day through Aug. 15, the daily bag limit on salmon is one fish. The entire stream is restricted to fly-fishing only. Traditionally, May and June are considered prime time by locals and those who know the stream, because water levels have dropped and temperatures have warmed up a bit. During this period, the stream takes on its normal appearance and character, making it easier to get around, read the various pools and strategically work a fly.

Floating lines and traditional smelt-imitating streamers should produce action. The Pine Tree, located in the center of the village of Grand Lake Stream, maintains a supply of the hottest patterns including some local favorites. The proprietors of that establishment, avid salmon fishermen all, are always willing to offer some helpful suggestions. You can reach them at (207) 796-5027, or visit www.pinetreestore.com -- their Web site also contains some helpful and informative information on streams, including water flow and temperature updates during the season.

The areas upstream of the Hatchery Pool to the Dam Pool are all with easy walking distance from lodging facilities in the village, while areas downstream may easily be reached by vehicle using the road paralleling the stream on the east side.

There is ample lodging in the area, but Canal Side Cabins (at 1-888-796-2796) is about a minute's walk from the Dam Pool. Check their Web site at www.canalsidecabins.com.

You can obtain more information on other lodging services by visiting www.grandlakestream.com, the Web site of the Grand Lake Stream Chamber of Commerce.

West Branch Penobscot
The West Branch Penobscot River, between Ripogenus Dam and Nesowadnehunk deadwater, has long been considered the top landlocked salmon river in the Northeast. And despite the flotillas of whitewater rafters using the river these days, it still ranks among the very best. The fish here are wild and there are some big ones. The scenery is second to none, and fly-fishing or artificial lures are allowed, depending upon the section being fished.