Brook Trout Heaven or Hype? Maine's Rapid, Kennebago, and Magalloway Rivers
Episode Description
Episode 161 of the Destination Angler Fly Fishing Podcast – January 1, 2026.
Our destination is the Rangeley region of Maine — home to three world-famous rivers steeped in history and known for giant brook trout: the Rapid, the Kennebago, and the Magalloway. But how are they actually fishing today? And do they still live up to the hype?
Joining me is fisheries ecologist and lifelong Mainer Greg LaBonte, owner of Maine Fly Guys. Today we talk brook trout and landlocked salmon, muskies and black flies, head nets and Maine culture, and what not to do in moose country. Plus, Greg's five must-have fly patterns and the mind blowing truth about leaders, fly lines, and tippets.
With host Steve Haigh
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Message Greg on Instagram @maineflyguys or visit his website: https://maineflyguys.com/
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Recorded Oct 31, 2025