The Pemigewasset River, also known as the Pemi, is known all around New England for its abundant population of native brook trout, and its healthy populations of brown and rainbow trout. The river is also home to other fish species, including smallmouth bass, fallfish, and chain pickerel. Unsurprisingly, this makes it something of a hidden gem for fly fishing.
Stocked yearly by New Hampshire Fish & Game with trout, bass, and Atlantic salmon, the Pemi becomes much wider in Lincoln, offering an exciting array of fast and slow water to satisfy many fishing preferences. Despite easy access off parallel Interstate 93, most of the river’s corridor is still undeveloped wilderness, offering anglers peace, tranquility, and a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.
Anglers can access the river from several points along its banks, including the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center and the Peabody Slab. These are popular starting points for a fly fishing trip on the Pemi and offer easy access to the river and its fish. In addition to these well-known fishing spots, there are more than a few less-frequented spots worth exploring. For example, the stretch of the river between the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center and the Loon Mountain Resort is particularly popular with fly fishermen, as it is home to large populations of brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Fishermen also appreciate the crystal-clear waters of the Pemi that make it much easier to see any potential catches swimming beneath the surface.
LOCAL TIP: The upper stretches of the Pemi north of Lincoln are your best bet for native trout. If pond fishing is your preference, try the headwaters of Profile or Echo Lake in Franconia Notch. Be sure to visit Mountain High Fly in downtown Lincoln for guided tours, fly fishing classes, and all your angling needs.