The Carrabassett Package

Fast Action

A fast-action rod is just what the name implies. At the end of the backcast, the tip of the fly rod is slightly bent but the rest of the rod is virtually straight as an arrow.

Fast Action rods are great for casting in the wind and long casts as the stiffness of the rod allows for more power in the cast.

Beginners might struggle learning how to cast with a fast-action rod. The sheer power in the rods makes "getting a feel" for the fly and fly line difficult. Precise casts in particular will be difficult for new anglers.

Fly fishing the Carrabassett River in Maine is a delightful experience, especially when using an 8-foot fly rod, which offers the perfect balance of control and flexibility. This river, known for its scenic beauty, winds through the western mountains of Maine, providing anglers with a tranquil setting. The best time to fish the Carrabassett River is during the late spring through early fall, with prime conditions often peaking from late May to early June and again in September. During this period, the water temperature is ideal for fish activity, and hatches are abundant.

The Carrabassett River is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for fly fishers. Anglers can expect to catch brook trout, brown trout, and the occasional rainbow trout, with brook trout being particularly prevalent. The river's cold, clean waters create a thriving ecosystem, attracting insects that are crucial for fly fishing success. Dry flies, nymphs, and streamers can be effective, depending on the time of day and the current hatches.

Casting along the river's edges or in riffles can yield rewarding catches, and the picturesque backdrop of the surrounding mountains enhances the experience. As you immerse yourself in this serene environment, the thrill of the catch and the beauty of nature combine to create a memorable fly fishing adventure in one of Maine's hidden gems.

We are proud to stand behind all of our graphite and carbon fiber fly rods. All of our rods are backed by a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship for the original owner with proof of purchase.

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Small Batch Fly Rods, Built in Maine, USA

Small batch fly rods are more personal; their inspiration, their designs, how they are crafted and  the service we provide for the life of the rod. 

We build every fly rod here as if it were our very own. The designs reflect our journeys and are personal to us. Our builders not only hand craft every rod, but they are also the very same people you can find along the river fishing them.

Small batch production allows for greater attention to detail and unique customization welcoming special requests to be sure your fly rod feels as personal to you as it was for us to build it. You and your fly rod aren’t just a number here. Your rod is carefully crafted with you in mind. That’s small batch.

We believe a fly rod should be as unique as the angler who uses it. 

Always transport and store your new rod in its rod case. Most rods are broken during travel. Nothing ends a fly fishing trip faster than setting a heavy cooler on the top of a fly rod.

Take extra care when stringing your rod. Thread a look of fly line through the guides and tip top and pull the line and leader through without bending the rod.

When using weighted or large flies, adjust to an open casting stroke. (a fly hitting the rod can also damage the blank)

Avoid severe rod angles when fighting and landing fish. Snagged flies should be broken off by pulling on the line with the rod tip pointed directly at the snag.

Take the rod apart when you are done fishing to avoid stuck ferrules.

Completely air dry your rod and place it in a cloth bag and tube before storing. The rod tubes can trap moisture, which can swell reel seats and ruin the rod finish.

Rinse after each use and occasionally clean your rod with warm water and soap and completely dry.