Forest Lodge -- once owned by Louise Dickinson Rich, author of We Took To The Woods and My Neck Of The Woods -- is now owned and operated by Aldro French who offers lodging, meals, guide service and a fly shop, all within view of the river.

For information, call (207) 650-3890 year-round, or (207) 392-3333 November thru April 30. You can log on to Aldo French's Web site at www.rapidriverflyfishing.com. His e-mail is info@rapidriverflyishing.com.

Androscoggin River
If you're looking for bigger trout waters, few in western Maine are hotter right now than the Androscoggin River between Gilead and Bethel. Once a flowing cesspool, the river has been rejuvenated and now offers some of the best trout opportunities in New England. The 26-mile stretch offers both browns and rainbow trout, with specimens from 18 to 20 inches possible.

The minimum length limit on all trout is 12 inches, but from April 1 through Aug. 15, all fish between 16 and 20 inches must be released. The daily bag limit is two fish. Check the current fishing regulations summary for other details.

One of the great attractions of this stretch of river is that it offers something for everyone. While fly-fishing is popular, artificial lures are also legal. This is big water, but many areas may be waded. There is good fishing from shore and sandbars, especially in June once water levels have stabilized in the West Bethel-to-Gilead section.

"The Andy" also offers the opportunity for some long floats with canoes or small car-top boats. Fishing afloat can take anglers to some secluded areas that are otherwise more challenging to reach.

Access in general is relatively easy from Route 2, which parallels much of the river. The most popular public-access points will be found at the bridge in Gilead, at Newt's Landing in West Bethel, at Davis Park and Bethel Outdoor Adventure in Bethel, Moran's Landing in Newry and at the public boat launch in Hanover. Several outfitters in the Bethel area offer guiding and float trips for first-time anglers.

For a list of outfitters, as well as information on lodging and other services, contact the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce at 1-800- 442-5826 or (207) 924-2282; or at www.bethelmaine.com. Be sure to ask for the informative and helpful Fishing the Upper Andro guidebook.

Other Maine Options
In addition to big rivers such as the Kennebec River, Maine is blessed with dozens of smaller trout rivers that offer easy access and prime conditions this month.

In the Sebago area, one of the best is the Pleasant River in Windham. The river is stocked with both brookies and browns each year. Fish in the 8- to-12 inch range are common in June before the summer crowd arrives and water temperatures rise.

Route 202 crosses the river south of its junction with Route 115. Falmouth Road and William Knight Road cross the river going downstream.