Few things are as sacred among New England trout fishermen as their favorite stretch of moving water. Lakes and ponds certainly have their following of dedicated enthusiasts, but in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, there is no doubt rivers and streams have always had the more irresistible appeal. Perhaps it is the feel of water against the legs, the possibilities of trout holding in a deep hole or eddy, or the sound of water gurgling over gravel and stone. Whatever the personal reason for the attraction, part of the equation is the fact some of the finest trout streams to be found anywhere are right here in northern New England.

This is certainly true when it comes to brook trout, a perennial favorite in all three states. Combined, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department will stock several million of these speckled beauties this spring, in some cases, nearly half of which will go into rivers and streams

Fishermen in the Northeast who are looking for prime brook trout angling in moving water don't have to travel far to find it. Add in many opportunities for brown trout and rainbow trout including stocked "wild" and hold­over populations, and northern New England has stream fishing that is difficult to beat!

MAINE
Pursuing wild brook trout in moving water is almost a spiritual experience for many fishermen. Not surprisingly, the Eastern Brook Trout Venture, a consortium of government agencies and conservation groups, recently recognized Maine as the preeminent angling destination for native brook trout in the eastern United States.

Roach River
One of the finest wild brook trout rivers in north-central Maine is the Roach River, which starts at First Roach Pond at Kokadjo northeast of Greenville. From the dam, the Roach River flows more than six miles before dumping into Spencer Bay on Moosehead Lake.

Although best known for its fall salmon and trout runs, brook trout inhabit the river throughout the year and some especially prime opportunities exist during the early part of the fishing season before water temperatures warm.

The Roach is not a big river, no more than 40 or 50 feet at it widest point, but starting at the dam at First Roach Pond it offers a good series of pools and riffles all the way to the big lake.

The Roach River is restricted to fly-fishing only and all fish caught must be released.

Easy access, however, means much of the angling attention is directed toward the uppermost stretch of river downstream from Kokadjo. A public parking area on the south side of the river is across from the public boat launch.

The best foot access along this stretch is a trail on the north shore that leads to several pools in the first one-half mile of river. Farther downstream, access is more difficult and calls for some bushwhacking. As a consequence, the middle and lower sections receive less pressure, but for the adventurous angler some fine wild trout fishing is possible.

Lodging and a small general store are available in Kokadjo, with additional lodging, fly and tackle shops and other services available in Greenville.