For many years the local farmers had fished for sustenance, and therefore, they instinctiveley knew where the best fish could be landed. As the news spread to the cities, bringing greater numbers of fishing enthusiasts to the area, many of Rangeley's enterprising settlers became guides while others built public houses, sporting camps (usually a cluster of cabins serviced by a main lodge), cabins and even hotels to accommodate their guests. Across from the famed Indian Rock, a group of the earliest sport fishermen formed the Oquossoc Angling Association, a private club of individual cabins with a main lodge for dining.

By now, the later half of the 19th century, Rangeley was attracting sizeable publicity. An enticing 15 page article on the region was published by Harper's New Monthly Magazine in 1877. Soon after, the railroads published their own regional travel guide to attract visitors. Cornelia "Flyrod" Crosby was probably one of the area's most famous publicists. Her articles and fly casting demonstrations at eastern sporting shows had a major impact on drawing visitors and sportsmen to the Rangeley region.

By 1900, fishing guides in the area numbered 200. One of the most famous guides was Herbie Welch, who arrived at Haines...more >>