The Fish River Package

Moderate / 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.

At Maine Fly Company, we know that the experience of catch-and-release fly fishing on the Fish River in Maine is an angler’s dream. Flowing through the pristine wilderness of Aroostook County, this river is rich with native brook trout and landlocked salmon, offering a unique opportunity for those who treasure the art of fly fishing and the preservation of fish populations. Our team understands the thrill of feeling the first tug on the line, the exhilarating challenge of setting the hook, and the peaceful satisfaction of watching a fish swim away, ensuring its place in the river ecosystem for generations to come.

The Fish River meanders through varied landscapes, from open waters to dense northern forests, each section providing a different, beautiful backdrop. Fishing here means engaging with nature in its purest form, surrounded by towering pines and the subtle whispers of wildlife. In early spring, the cold waters flow freely with the melting snow, bringing fish out of hiding and making them eager for a well-presented fly. As summer warms the river, anglers find deep pools that harbor larger fish, and by autumn, the river becomes a canvas painted with Maine’s striking fall colors.

At Maine Fly Company, we believe in the importance of preserving these waters. Practicing catch-and-release on the Fish River is not just a method; it’s a philosophy. It shows respect for the ecosystem and ensures that others can experience the same joy of a prized catch. Each fish released is a testament to the angler's dedication to conservation and love for the sport. Fly fishing on the Fish River is more than casting a line—it's joining a legacy of stewardship, patience, and reverence for Maine's wild beauty.

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. 

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.

Read More...

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.

Get loaded!  The Cheeky Preload series comes spooled up and ready to fish with Cheeky’s premium 20-lb backing, specially paired weight forward floating fly line, and a 9-foot loop-to-loop tapered leader.  Spend less time and money rigging up and more time on the water. 

Just pay for the bench fee and we will spool your new reel with backing. Backing length added is per manufacturers suggested length. MFC uses 20lb Dacron for fresh water rods and 30lb for salt water rods.  If you have any special request, please call the shop following your order.