The Little Androscoggin River, between the Welchville Dam in Oxford downstream to Upper Baker's Dam in Auburn, offers miles of water for stocked and holdover rainbows. Although water conditions determine success, some fish can be found even when levels are low.

Not far from Portland, the Presumpscot River drains Sebago Lake, offering brown trout and some brookies and plenty of cool, clear water. From the outlet dam on Sebago downstream to the head of North Gorham Pond, the stretch is restricted to fly-fishing only. This is a relatively short run, but it's a good place to spend a lazy July morning or evening.

Access is easy near the bridge on Route 35 west of North Windham.

The nearby Pleasant River is also a good spot, especially the no-kill section that runs from the Route 302 bridge in Windham downstream to the bridge on River Road.

The Rapid River should continue to produce brook trout this month. The same is true of the Androscoggin River from the New Hampshire border to Bethel, now considered one of the best trout rivers in the state.

You'll find some of the best action in the faster runs and near the mouths of entering tributaries.

For more information on trout fishing in Maine, contact the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife at (207) 287-8000, or visit www.mefishwildlife.com.

NEW HAMPSHIRE-VERMONT
Connecticut River
At this time of year, few places in western New Hampshire and eastern Vermont offer more for trout fishermen than the Connecticut River. From Murphy Dam at the foot of Lake Francis downstream to Lyman Falls in Columbia, you will find just about every type of trout water, with plenty of easy access.

Despite warm temperatures and low water levels at times, especially during periods of little rain, lunker browns, rainbows and brook trout are always possible for the patient angler.

One spot to consider is below Murphy Dam in Pittsburg. The stretch is stocked annually, but the area also holds some wild fish. There is plenty of good water here, and under the right conditions, it's possible to wade from below the dam to the bridge in West Stewartstown. In between are good access points at the N.H. Fish and Game pull-off kiosk near the state garage on Route 3 and at the Clarksville covered bridge on what the locals call Bacon Bridge Road south of town.

The river is bigger downstream in West Stewartstown below Canaan Dam, and generally holds some good fish. Keep in mind that this is July, so you may have to work to find them. There are times when the action doesn't come easy, but the fish are there. The faster water below the dam is good for wading.

The stretch of water below the breached dam at Lyman Falls in Columbia is prime water, too. Browns and rainbows are the primary targets, but brook trout are a possibility. Foot access is off Route 3 via a private dirt road. Keep in mind this is catch-and-release water where only artificial lures and flies may be used. Check the current freshwater fishing digest for regulations governing river anglers.

There's any number of places to stay while fishing in the area, and other services such as restaurants and tackle shops are available nearby. The folks at Lopstick Lodge and Cabins in Pittsburg know the river very well. Contact them at 1-800-538-6659, or visit them at www.lopstick.com.