I spent a week drifting one of Maine’s extended open water rivers to see if it was worth offering trips in late fall and the result was awesome. We averaged 20 fish a day, any where from 12 to 20 inch fish. I won’t lie, the weather was tough. It went from 45 degrees to 30 and snowing, but the fishing made up for the cold temperatures.
I personally enjoy this time of year because most people are hunting and there are way less people out fishing, which makes for a peaceful trip. Also, camping this time of year really is crisp and fresh; I just love the way the woods smell when the leaves are on the ground and there is a dampness in the air.
You definitely need to dress in layers when fishing this late in the fall. I like to wear two pairs of socks, a thin pair with feet warmers and then a heavy pair. On my legs I have long johns and a pair of fleece pants. My upper body I will have multiple layers, starting with cold weather Under Armour, then a long sleeve shirt, then a fleece, maybe a vest then a jacket with a Patagonia vest over it, I will usually have a buff around my neck with a winter hat. On my hands I will have a pair of Simms wind proof fingerless gloves.
It is just like any other fall/winter sport; if you dress properly it will make your experience a whole lot better.
Maine still has some fishing opportunities left this time of year!