Maine Fly Fishing Festival

Everything you need for a memorable weekend in the Maine Woods is covered—just bring your sense of adventure (and your bug spray).

• Three nights at Little Lyford Lodge or Gorman Chairback Lodge
  Settle into a private, off-grid cabin surrounded by the beauty of AMC’s 100-Mile Wilderness. See accomodations tab for more details. Please note, attendance at the event is exclusively available to those with a reservation at the lodge—simply book your stay and complete the event form at checkout to secure your spot.
• All meals from Thursday dinner through Sunday lunch
  Enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals made with fresh ingredients. Fuel up before morning excursions and wind down with warm, nourishing dinners in Little Lyford's dining room.
• Guided fly fishing clinics and excursions
  Registered guests may book a complimentary Maine fly fishing guide for Friday or Saturday, with email instructions sent in advance; outings are half-day experiences with a two-person maximum per guide, and gratuities are appreciated. Guided spots are limited, but experienced anglers and volunteers will be available to offer tips and help guests fish nearby ponds throughout the weekend.
• Evening saunas and waterfront access
  Relax after a day on the water with a wood-fired sauna, or explore local waters by kayak or canoe—all included with your stay.

A limited selection of fly fishing gear will be available for guest use, but we recommend bringing your own if you have it to ensure the best fit and experience.

Please note: This event takes place during black fly season. We strongly recommend bringing appropriate bug protection to ensure a comfortable experience. 

This year's festival spans two iconic backcountry lodges in AMC's 100-Mile Wilderness. Whether you're staying at Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins or Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins, you'll have full access to all festival programming, guided outings, and meals.

All festival guests enjoy:

• Private, off-grid cabins
  Cabins are heated by wood stoves and can get chilly—pack accordingly for a cozy stay. All cabins share a central bathhouse with hot showers and a wood-fired sauna.
• Full meal service
  Hearty, home-cooked meals from Thursday dinner through Sunday lunch, including made-to-order trail lunches and freshly prepared dinners with soup or salad, entrée, and dessert. All meals are served at Little Lyford Lodge. Beer and wine available for purchase at Little Lyford and BYOB is allowed in each of the lodges fire pit areas.
• Waterfront access & amenities
  Complimentary access to canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards on Little Lyford Ponds and Second Narrows at Gorman Chairback. Explore nearby hikes like Laurie's Ledge or the famed Gulf Hagas, spend evenings under the stars in New England's only International Dark Sky Park, and recharge in onsite wood-fired saunas.
• Festival welcome bag
  Complete with the full event schedule and special provisions to make your stay even more memorable, thanks to our brand partners.

Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins (Sold Out)

Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins is a beloved backcountry retreat with direct access to the West Branch of the Pleasant River and Little Lyford Ponds. Guests at Little Lyford can expect:

• Staff-supported adventure
  Onsite staff available throughout the weekend for trip planning, weather updates, and trail recommendations.
• Onsite programming
  Little Lyford is the heart of our Fly Fishing festival and where all the action happens. Guests will gather each morning over breakfast and hear about guided trips, volunteer programming, and brand partner offerings in the day ahead.

Learn More about Little Lyford

Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins (Limited Availability Remaining)

Gorman Chairback Lodge is opening early this season to offer three Hilltop Cabins as expanded festival lodging. Gorman will operate in a simplified, early-season capacity for the weekend, offering guests limited amenities including:

• Morning coffee and hot water service
  Start your day with a hot cup of tea or coffee before heading to Little Lyford for breakfast service and festival programming.
• Light in-cabin snacks and provisions
  Enjoy snacks and supplies to keep you comfortable between meals at Little Lyford.
• Assistance getting between properties
  Festival programming and meals take place at Little Lyford Lodge, approximately 7.4 miles away (25–30 min drive). Limited shuttle assistance is available on request.

Learn More about Gorman Chairback

TRAVEL ALERT: Until further notice, AMC strongly recommends that guests with standard clearance vehicles visiting Little Lyford and Gorman Chairback access the lodges via Brownville. A road crew is scheduled to begin work shortly though we do not have a definitive timeframe for completion of work. For the most up to date information, please visit: https://www.outdoors.org/weather-trail-conditions/

How do I register for the festival?
Registration is free and tied to your reservation—just book your stay for June 4 - 7 at Little Lyford or Gorman Chairback. During the checkout process, you’ll see an option to opt into the Fly Fishing Festival. Check the box and submit the form to complete your registration.

Do I have to stay at the lodge to attend the event?
Not necessarily. We’ll host an open house at Little Lyford during the festival weekend and visitors are welcome to stop by and explore the area. Please note: Open House guests do not have access to festival programming, meals, or recreational gear. Bring your own fishing gear and food, and check in at the front desk upon arrival. No registration is required.

Can I attend the festival for only one night?
No—festival participation requires a three-night minimum stay at Little Lyford Lodge or Gorman Chairback Lodge.

Can I attend if I’m new to fly fishing?
Absolutely! This event is designed for all skill levels, including beginners. Whether you’ve never held a fly rod or you’re looking to refine your technique, our expert guides will meet you where you are.

What gear should I bring?
We recommend bringing your own fly fishing gear if you have it. A limited amount of gear will be available for guest use, but having your own ensures the best fit and experience. Don’t forget essentials like waders, bug protection, and a headlamp for evening events.

How do I register for guided fishing trips?
Guide services are included with your stay. Registered guests may book a complimentary Maine fly fishing guide for Friday or Saturday, with email instructions sent in advance; outings are half-day experiences with a two-person maximum per guide, and gratuities are appreciated. Guided spots are limited, but throughout the weekend, experienced anglers and volunteers will be available to offer tips and help guests fish nearby ponds—no guide reservation required.

Are meals included?
Yes! Your stay includes all meals from Thursday dinner through Sunday lunch, including hearty breakfasts, trail lunches, and freshly prepared dinners served in the lodge.

Is the event BYOB?
Yes, with some guidelines. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages, but outside beverages are not permitted inside the lodges. Little Lyford offers alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for purchase. You’re welcome to enjoy your own beverages at the outdoor firepit areas.

What should I pack?
Pack as you would for a backcountry weekend: layers for changing weather, rain gear, headlamp, personal toiletries, and any gear you’d like to use (fly fishing, hiking, paddling, etc.). Cabins are heated by wood stove, but evenings can be chilly—come prepared to stay warm.

Can I arrive before check-in?
Yes! Guests are welcome to arrive early and enjoy the property, explore trails, or fish before official check-in begins.

Is there cell service or Wi-Fi at Little Lyford or Gorman Chairback?
Nope and that’s part of the charm! Little Lyford and Gorman Chairback are off-grid and offer a true unplugged experience. You’ll find cell service a short drive away if needed.

Can I bring kids?
Yes! The Fly Fishing Festival is family-friendly and welcomes anglers of all ages. There are plenty of opportunities for exploration, learning, and outdoor fun whether it’s casting a line or paddling on the pond.

What’s the bug situation?
This event takes place during black fly season, so we strongly recommend bringing effective bug protection, including repellent, long sleeves, and a head net if you're sensitive to bites.

How can I become a sponsor?
We’d love to connect! If you're interested in sponsoring this year’s event, please contact our Brand Partnerships Manager, Paige LeFrancois, at [email protected].