Fly. Spin. Salt.
get out here
Resources
Having spent what seems like an eternity working in the hospitality sector here in Portland, I feel uniquely qualified to weigh in on “where to eat” recommendations. Feel free to reach out, depending on what you’re looking for, I’m sure I can help steer you in the right direction. A few of my favorites include, but are not limited to (no particular order) :
Tackle and Fly Shops
The Tackle Shop
Falmouth, Maine
Great assortment of spin and fly gear for both fresh and salt water pursuits. Good fly tying section as well. George and Dana know their stuff, there are no stupid questions here, super friendly and always helpful. Never an up sell, they get you into what you need.
Saco Bay Tackle Co
Saco, Maine
When it comes to off shore/near shore rigging, Pete and the boys know the drill. Another one of those can’t miss tackle shops. Even if you’re a first time shopper, they’ll make you feel like a life long regular with their “how can we help” vibe.
All points Fly Shop + Outfitters
Scarborough, Maine
Talk about dedication to fly fishing, Josh will have you covered whether it’s a handful of trout flies or you are looking to go on a trip lifetime. Great assortment of tying materials and everything offered in shop is purposeful.
S.S. Flies
Denmark, Maine
Like the site says, “Tied in Maine. Fished Everywhere.” Pete is a world class fly tier. I can’t tell how many times I’ve been on a trip and hearing some local guide extol about his flies. If you’re going on that special trip and you need some bugs, reach out sooner than later, his flies are always in high demand.
Jones Brothers Marine
Morehead City, NC
I would be remissed if I didn’t mention these folks. Simply, I love my boat. Sturdy enough to take offshore and stealthily enough to get in tight. I had a lot silly questions when I first got her and Donnie always answered and never made me feel like a fool.
Portland Yatch Services
Portland, Maine
They’ve been very good to me over the years and always do top notch work. No job too big or too small. From my B.A.S.S. club days til now, I have always felt like I belonged. If you’re in town, drive by the yard, there’s always something impressive being worked on.
Special shoutout…
Scott Howard is the owner of Olivia’s Garden, a registered Maine guide and operates Fly Fish Maine. I stumbled into his green house over 25 years ago and he hasn’t been able to shake me since. From the early days of me seeking out locally grown produce to introducing me to tarpon fishing, he has taught me a lot. If not for his guidance over the years, I probably wouldn’t by doing this. I am grateful for the encouragement and the stewardship. If you’re looking for hands down the best tomatoes, cukes, basil or greens Portland has to offer, if he’s not out fishing you can find him most weekends at the local farmers market. If I’m booked or you’re looking for more than I can offer, he’s the first person I’d get you in touch with.