Had you ever heard of the Blueback Trout? We hadn’t either, but what caught our interest wasn’t its rarity — it’s the fact that it’s endangered. And the danger comes from other trout introduced for fishing competitions, for “restocking,” or for any number of other reasons… but that’s always worth keeping in mind, because of course it’s not just about the Blueback Trout… it’s about every local species, wherever you happen to be. And that’s not even counting agricultural water pumping, construction projects that alter rivers’ water supply, land consolidation, or clear-cutting in forests… in short, the ones responsible are US.
Alright, we’re not here to bring down the mood — go watch this gorgeous film and head off to Maine to fish for the Blueback Trout!
OQUASSA is a fly fishing documentary that follows three passionate anglers deep into the North Maine Woods in pursuit of the elusive Blueback Trout (Salvelinus alpinus oquassa), a rare fish that has captured the imagination of anglers and conservationists for generations.
Far from the roads and crowds, the journey takes them into some of Maine’s most remote wilderness, where finding the fish is only part of the story. Through long days on the water, changing conditions, and the uncertainty that comes with pursuing something truly wild, OQUASSA explores what draws anglers back to places like these, and why protecting them matters.
More than a fishing film, OQUASSA is a story of wilderness, perseverance, friendship, and the connection between people and the places that shape them. Through immersive cinematography and authentic storytelling, the film captures the rugged beauty of Maine’s backcountry and the pursuit of a fish that few will ever have the opportunity to encounter.
Produced by filmmakers Alex Caisse V and Ben Morang, OQUASSA is a celebration of Maine’s wild places, its native fish, and the people committed to preserving them for generations to come.
In pursuit of the Blueback.