Maine Top Fishing Spots

Maine, affectionately known as the “Pine Tree State” and “Vacationland,” offers a breathtaking natural landscape paired with an unparalleled angling scene. With its vast expanse of flowing rivers, thousands of lakes, and extensive Atlantic coastline, Maine provides diverse fishing opportunities year-round, making it a dream destination for both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will equip you with essential information on prominent fish species, top fishing locations, recommended methods, and crucial 2025 regulations to ensure a successful and memorable fishing adventure.

Why Maine is an Angler’s Paradise

Maine’s appeal to anglers stems from its rich and varied fisheries. The state boasts more than 2,000 square miles of inland water and nearly 3,500 miles of Atlantic coastline, creating a diverse range of habitats. From the teeming inland waters with Brook Trout to the Atlantic Ocean’s challenging Bluefin Tuna, there’s something to excite every fisherman. Even the harsh winters can’t deter avid anglers, as ice fishing is a beloved and popular tradition, offering year-round action. The state’s bass resource, for instance, is a valuable asset, covering over half a million acres in 613 lakes and ponds, thriving on natural reproduction without needing annual stocking programs.

Prime Fish Species in Maine Waters

Maine’s waters are home to an impressive array of fish, promising a trophy catch wherever you cast your line.

Freshwater Stars

• Landlocked Salmon: As Maine’s official state fish, Landlocked Salmon are native to the area, and Maine hosts the world’s largest sport fishery for them. These acrobatic and feisty fish thrive in temperatures below 65°F. Popular spots include West Grand Lake, globally famous for its supply stock, and Sebago Lake, known for trophy-sized specimens. Techniques vary by season: casting and fly fishing in spring and fall, trolling in summer when they hide in deeper waters, and jigging during winter ice fishing.
• Brook Trout: These lovely native fish prefer crystal clear, transparent streams and lakes. The most resilient species are found in the remote northern regions, with Moosehead Lake’s shoreline nurturing the largest specimens during spawning season. East Grand Lake is also excellent for ice fishing for Brook Trout. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (MDIFW) identifies 306 “Native Brook Trout Lakes & Ponds” (no record of direct or indirect stocking) and 250 “Wild Brook Trout Lakes & Ponds” (not stocked in the previous 25 years).
• Lake Trout (Togue): Widely available, with Moosehead Lake, Sebago Lake, Rangeley Lake, and Kezar Lake being popular spots. Anglers often focus on deeper waters in Moosehead Lake for togue.
• Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass: Abundant throughout Maine, these bass species are found in 613 lakes and ponds, spanning over 0.5 million acres. However, bass grow slowly in Maine waters, taking many years to reach desirable sizes, and trophy-sized bass are few. Largemouth bass thrive in shallow, weedy areas, while smallmouth bass prefer clean, fertile water with suitable shoreline gravel for spawning and rock rubble for cover. Notable locations include Sebago Lake, China Lake, Pushaw Lake, Cobbosseecontee Lake, and Megunticook Lake.
• Northern Pike: The Belgrade Lakes chain, including Great Pond and Messalonskee Lake, are known for their northern pike populations. Using larger baitfish on traps is recommended for targeting them.
• Other Freshwater Species: Anglers can also find Brown Trout, Perch (white, yellow), Crappie, Bluegill, Whitefish, Pickerel, Splake, and Muskie in various Maine freshwater bodies.

Saltwater Thrills

• Bluefin Tuna: For avid deep-sea fishermen, the Gulf of Maine offers excellent Bluefin Tuna fishing, with these Atlantic giants appearing off the coast as early as April, peaking in warm summer temperatures, particularly in July and August. Portland is an ideal starting point, as the Gulf’s deep waters allow for quick access to the right depths.
• Sharks: Maine’s offshore waters are “brimming with Shark species” from July to October, offering an action-packed experience for adrenaline seekers. Porbeagle and Thresher Sharks are fast swimmers, while Mako Sharks are known for their impressive size and acrobatic jumps, sometimes reaching 20 feet out of the water. A Federal Highly Migratory Species Permit is required to fish for blue, porbeagle, and common thresher sharks in Federal waters. However, anglers are prohibited from taking coastal sharks, including shortfin mako, in Maine’s territorial waters.
• Atlantic Mackerel: These coastal fish are abundant, with their peak season running from May to September.
• Atlantic Halibut: Recreational anglers face specific regulations: a minimum size of 41 inches, and vessels may land no more than 5 fish per year (recreational) or 25 fish per year (charter). All retained fish must be immediately tagged with an approved landings tag. The season in Maine territorial waters runs from sunrise on May 18 through sunset on June 13th, with no fishing permitted on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Anglers must use 14/0, 15/0, or 16/0 circle hooks and are limited to 100 hooks per person and per vessel. In federal waters, there is no season, but the limit is no more than 1 fish per day.
• Cod: The Gulf of Maine offers excellent Cod fishing, especially in September and October, which are the only two months you can freely pursue them off Maine’s coast. Cod are bottom dwellers, and jigs paired with plastic worms, clams, or shrimps are effective baits. Stellwagen Bank and Jeffreys Ledge are known for impressive numbers of fish during this time.
• Pollock: In Maine Territorial waters, there are no size or bag limits for Pollock, making them a year-round target. They are particularly active in early winter in the Gulf of Maine, feeding aggressively in January. Pollock fishing is also strong in July and September.
• Striped Bass: These popular coastal fish peak in July and August, with good fishing in May, June, September, and October. The estuaries of the Kennebec, Saco, and Penobscot Rivers are identified as ultimate hotspots. For Striped Bass in the Kennebec River from May 1 to June 30, only single-hook artificial lures are permitted, and the use or possession of marine bait is prohibited; all striped bass caught must be immediately released alive.
• Winter Flounder: Anglers can target Winter Flounder, with a minimum size of 12 inches and a bag limit of 8 fish per angler per day. They can be caught into November.
• Atlantic Wolffish: Anglers are prohibited from possessing Atlantic wolffish.
• Lobster: While primarily a commercial fishery, Lobster season peaks for recreational interest from July to September.

Top Fishing Destinations Across Maine

Maine is “blessed with fishable waters throughout its entire land,” offering a wealth of choices for anglers.

Renowned Lakes & Ponds

• Moosehead Lake (Greenville): As Maine’s largest lake, it offers expansive opportunities for lake trout (togue), brook trout, and salmon, set against a breathtaking winter landscape. It’s a popular destination for ice fishing and fly fishing in autumn. The lake also nurtures the largest specimens of brook trout along its shoreline.
• Sebago Lake (Windham and Raymond): The deepest and second-largest lake in Maine, Sebago is renowned for its trophy-sized lake trout, salmon, and smallmouth bass. It also hosts Splake, Brown, and Rainbow Trout. Early mornings are often best, and the lake has unique local regulations. An annual Ice Fishing Derby is held here in February.
• Belgrade Lakes (Oakland, Belgrade, and Rome): This chain of seven freshwater lakes, including Great Pond, Long Pond, and Messalonskee Lake, is a “must-visit fishing attraction” known for diverse fish populations such as Northern Pike, brook trout, salmon, perch, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, smelt, and brown trout. They offer excellent opportunities for both open water and ice fishing.
• Grand Lake Stream / East Grand Lake / West Grand Lake: Located in Washington County, Grand Lake Stream is one of Maine’s top five salmon rivers and a well-known fly-fishing destination, rich with brook trout, togue, salmon, and smallmouth bass. East Grand Lake is recommended for excellent ice fishing, featuring Rainbow, Lake, and Brown Trout. West Grand Lake is globally famous for its Landlocked Salmon stock.
• Rangeley Lake (Rangeley): This pristine lake in Maine’s western mountains is renowned for its brook trout, landlocked salmon, lake trout, and Arctic charr. Fly-fishing is prevalent, and ice-fishing opportunities begin in January.
• China Lake (China and Vassalboro): A local favorite known for brown trout, smallmouth bass, and pickerel. The southern end of the lake often yields better results. Note that the Maine CDC advises no more than 1 meal per month of any fish species from China Lake due to PFAS.
• Pushaw Lake (Hudson): A smaller lake, ideal for beginners and families, offering consistent catches of white perch, pickerel, and bass. Fishing near weed beds and drop-offs is advised for perch and pickerel. Notably, there is no size or bag limit on largemouth bass in Pushaw Lake.
• Kezar Lake (Lovell): Offers stunning views and excellent fishing for lake trout (togue), salmon, and smallmouth bass. Anglers should bring a variety of baits and lures due to selective fish.
• Cobbosseecontee Lake (Winthrop): Renowned for its bass fishing, it’s a popular choice for fishing tournaments. Also home to multiple species of sunfish, trout, and perch. The daily bag limit on bass is 1 fish, and all bass between 16 and 20 inches must be released alive at once.
• Little Ossipee Pond: Offers unique warm water bass fishing, but is also actively stocked by the state for rainbow trout, brook trout, and landlocked Atlantic salmon.
• Mousam Lake: In southern Maine, this lake offers a diverse range of warm and coldwater species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout.

Productive Rivers & Streams

• Kennebec River: One of the longest rivers in Maine, the Kennebec is versatile, offering fly fishing for both freshwater species like brook trout in its upper reaches and saltwater species like striped bass and Atlantic salmon in its lower stretches and estuaries. Its estuaries are also spawning havens for Sturgeon. Recommended fly patterns include Kaufmanns Stimulators, Elk Wing Caddis, and Adams.
• Allagash River: Flowing through the North Maine Woods, the Allagash is known for its unspoiled wilderness and exceptional brook trout fishing in crystal-clear waters. Recommended fly patterns include Zebra Midge Black, Flashback Pheasant Tail Gold, and Caddis Larva.
• Androscoggin River: Offers diverse fly fishing for brown trout, rainbow trout, and smallmouth bass across its lively riffles and calm pools. Fly patterns like Elk Wing Caddis, Spanish Bullet Olive, and Copper John Hot Wire Zebra are recommended.
• Rapid River: A 6-mile-long river in northwestern Maine, known for its swift-flowing waters and spirited trout. It’s a great spot for playboating and riverboarding, and fly patterns like Elk Wing Caddis, Klinkhammer Midge, and Prince Nymph are effective.
• Penobscot River: Steeped in angling history, this river maintains its reputation as a catch-and-release Atlantic salmon fishery. It also holds brook trout, brown trout, large and smallmouth bass, and white perch. Fly patterns such as Parachute Adams Indicator, Last Chance Cripple, and Hot Wire Caddis are suggested.
• Presumpscot River: Conveniently located near Portland, it offers accessible fly fishing spots for brook trout and smallmouth bass, flowing into Casco Bay. Copper John Black, Flashback Pheasant Tail, and Kaufmanns Stimulators are recommended flies.
• St. John River: The longest river in Eastern Canada, flowing from Northern Maine, is noted for exceptional fly fishing for native brook trout and, more recently, superb Muskie fishing opportunities. Clouser Minnow, Dahlberg Diver, and Gurglers are recommended fly patterns.

Fishing Methods & Techniques

Maine offers a variety of fishing methods to suit any angler’s preference.

Ice Fishing

A “beloved winter tradition” in Maine, ice fishing draws thousands to frozen lakes like Moosehead, Sebago, and East Grand Lakes annually. The anticipation of what might bite—Salmon, Trout, Pike, or Perch—adds to the adventure.

• Essential Gear: You’ll need an auger (hand, electric, gas, or propane) to drill holes, tip-ups/traps (brands like Polar, Frabill, Heritage, Jack Traps) to signal bites, jig rods for active fishing, and a selection of ice fishing lines, monofilament leaders, swivels, and hooks (#6 or #8 for smaller fish, larger for lake trout).
• Safety: Safety is paramount, and hiring a local guide is recommended if you’re uncertain about ice conditions.
• Free Fishing Days: Maine offers free fishing days on February 15-16, 2025, and May 31-June 1, 2025, when anyone (except those with suspended/revoked licenses) can fish without a license, though all other laws apply.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is an “insanely fun activity” suitable for both seasoned anglers and novices, especially with a guide. Target species include Landlocked Salmon, Brown Trout, Togue, Striped Bass, and even Bluefin Tuna. The Rapid and Kennebec Rivers are highlighted as prime spots.

• Gear: A versatile setup typically includes a 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod with a reliable reel and weight-forward floating fly line. A selection of dry flies, nymphs, streamers, and attractor patterns tailored to species and season is crucial. Breathable waders and sturdy wading boots are essential for comfort and traction. Accessories like nippers, forceps, tippet spools, and polarized sunglasses for spotting fish are also recommended.
• Seasons: While opportunities exist year-round, the prime months for fly fishing in Maine are typically April to October. Spring and early summer (April to June) are excellent for trout and salmon in freshwater, while warmer months offer saltwater fly fishing along the coast. Fall (September to October) is fantastic for chasing fish amidst vibrant foliage.

Charter Fishing

Hiring a charter operator is arguably the “best approach to fishing in Maine” for moving between diverse waters and targeting various species. Local guides offer invaluable expertise, provide equipment, assist with licenses, and even clean your catch. This is especially beneficial for deep-sea excursions targeting species like Bluefin Tuna.

Surf Fishing (Shore Fishing)

Surf fishing from Maine’s beaches and piers is a popular method, allowing anglers to catch a variety of species without needing a boat.

• Locations: Popular spots include Ferry Beach State Park, Crescent Beach State Park, and Acadia National Park. Other recommended shore fishing locations include the jetty at Camp Ellis (Saco River side), the end of the State Pier in Portland (for mackerel), the Route 1/Veranda Street bridge (Portland to Falmouth), a small pier on Route 77 in Cape Elizabeth, and the Cousins Island bridge. Accessing spots like Little John Island requires early arrival due to limited parking.
• Tips: Early mornings and late evenings are often best to avoid crowds. Using mackerel chunks is suggested for catching bass from sandy beaches in southern Maine.

Essential Maine Fishing Regulations for 2025

Maine diligently regulates its freshwater and saltwater angling to maintain healthy fish populations. Anglers should always consult the official Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) and Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) websites for the most current regulations, as they are subject to change.

Maine Licensing Requirements

• Who Needs a License: A valid Maine fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older to fish in inland waters or transport fish from inland waters. Children under 16 do not need a license.
• Display: You must keep your fishing license (electronic or paper) with you at all times while fishing or transporting fish and present it upon request by a warden, department employee, guide, or landowner.
• Where to Obtain: Licenses can be purchased online link or from agents throughout the state, including sporting goods stores, convenience stores, and town clerks.
• License Types & Fees: Options vary for residents and non-residents, including season, combination, and short-term licenses (1-day, 3-day, 7-day, 15-day).
  • Resident Season Fishing (16+): $25.
  • Non-Resident Season Fishing (16+): $64.
  • Servicemen/Dependents: Special discounted rates for military personnel permanently stationed in Maine or residents on active duty stationed elsewhere.
  • Lifetime Licenses: Available for residents and non-residents, these licenses provide fishing, trapping, and/or hunting privileges for life. Revenues support Maine’s fish and wildlife. A senior lifetime license for Maine residents 70 years or older costs a one-time fee of $8.00 and includes numerous permits.
  • Complimentary Licenses: Free licenses are issued to qualifying individuals such as blind Maine residents, those with loss of use of both lower extremities, developmental disabilities, head injuries, certain youth in DHHS custody, honorably discharged disabled veterans, and enrolled members of federally recognized Native American tribes.
• Saltwater Registry: Recreational saltwater fishermen may be required to register with the Maine Saltwater Recreational Fishing Registry. More information is available link registry or by calling 207-624-9550.

Inland Water Regulations

Maine’s inland waters are divided into North and South Zones, each with specific rules:

• North Zone (Counties like Aroostook, Piscataquis, most of Somerset, Franklin, Penobscot north of Route 11 & 157, and Oxford north of the Androscoggin River): Open to open water fishing from April 1 to September 30. It is closed to all fishing from October 1 to March 31. The use or possession of live fish as bait is PROHIBITED.
• South Zone (Counties like York, Cumberland, Androscoggin, Kennebec, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Waldo, Knox, Penobscot south of Route 11 & 157, Hancock, Washington, and Oxford south of the Androscoggin River): Lakes and ponds are open to ice and open water fishing from January 1 to December 31. Rivers, streams, and brooks are open to open water fishing from April 1 to August 15, and from August 16 to September 30, they are open only to artificial lures or flies.
• Bass Limits:
  • North Zone: Unlimited daily bag and possession for bass, with no minimum length.
  • South Zone: A daily bag limit of 2 bass, with no minimum length, but only 1 may exceed 14 inches.
  • Specific Lake Exceptions: For Great Pond, the daily bag limit on bass is 1 fish, and all bass between 12 and 20 inches must be released alive at once. For Cobbosseecontee Lake, the daily bag limit is 1 fish, and all bass between 16 and 20 inches must be released alive at once. Pushaw Lake has no size or bag limit on largemouth bass.
• Terminal Gear: Generally, fishing is allowed with a single baited hook and line, artificial flies, or artificial lures and spinners. Anglers are limited to two lines while open water fishing and five lines while ice fishing.
• Lead Tackle Ban: It is unlawful to use, sell, or offer for sale lead sinkers and lead jigs measuring 2.5 inches or less in length or weighing one ounce or less. Effective September 1, 2026, the use of painted lead jigs of this size will also be prohibited. To protect waterbirds, especially loons, which suffer from fatal lead poisoning, anglers should use steel, tin, bismuth, or plastic alternatives and properly dispose of old lead tackle.
• Illegal Stocking: Introduction of fish to any pond, lake, or stream is illegal, carrying a $10,000 fine and license revocation from 1 to 5 years upon conviction. Report violations to 1-800-ALERT-US (1-800-253-7887) for a potential $2,000 reward leading to conviction. It is also illegal to transport live fish without a permit (except legal baitfish or smelts) or to dump unused baitfish into any waterway.
• Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS): To prevent the spread of AIS, it’s crucial to clean off plants, animals, and mud from all gear and equipment, drain water from watercraft, and dry completely before reuse. Never release live baitfish into a water body.
• Fish Consumption Advisories: The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention issues guidelines for mercury, PFAS, PCBs, Dioxins, and DDT in fish from certain Maine waters. These advisories specify limits or prohibitions on consumption, particularly for vulnerable populations like pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children.

Saltwater Regulations (Current as of May 19, 2025)

• General: All minimum lengths are total length, not fork length. The sale of fish by recreational anglers is prohibited. When using bait, it is unlawful to use any hook other than a circle hook.
• Bluefish: No minimum size, with a bag limit of 3 fish per angler per day. No bait with treble hooks is allowed, and no more than two treble hooks per lure.
• Atlantic Mackerel: The bag limit is 20 fish per angler per day.
• Winter Flounder: A minimum size of 12 inches and a bag limit of 8 fish per angler per day.
• Pollock (Maine Territorial Waters): No size or bag limits apply.

Planning Your Maine Fishing Adventure

Thoughtful preparation is key to a safe and rewarding fishing trip in Maine.

Obtaining Your License

Remember that a valid Maine fishing license is essential for most anglers aged 16 and older. Licenses can be conveniently obtained online at mefishwildlife.com or from numerous agents across the state.

Safety First

• Ice Fishing: Always prioritize safety, especially during ice fishing. Ensure the ice is sufficiently thick, and consider hiring a local guide who knows the frozen waters best.
• Weather & Regulations: Always check the weather forecast and review local fishing regulations before heading out.
• Tidal Waters: Exercise caution in tidal waters, particularly around river mouths and along shores, where strong currents can occur.
• Lead Tackle: Properly dispose of lead sinkers and jigs to protect Maine’s waterbirds.

Respecting the Environment

• Private Land Access: Remember that accessing private land is a privilege, not a right. Anglers should cooperate with landowners to ensure continued access for outdoor recreation.
• Lure & Bait Disposal: Properly dispose of all used soft plastic lures and unused baitfish or worms in a trash receptacle, never in the water or on land. Many boat launches and local clubs offer bait recycling canisters.
• Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS): Be vigilant against AIS. Clean off all plants, animals, and mud from your gear (waders, footwear, ropes, anchors, bait traps, fishing lines, etc.) before leaving any water access. Drain water from watercraft and equipment before entering and leaving launch sites, ensuring drained water does not re-enter inland waters. Dry gear completely before reuse. These steps are crucial to prevent irreversible damage to Maine’s natural resources.

Additional Resources

For the most up-to-date information:

• Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW): Visit mefishwildlife.com for freshwater laws, licenses, and the Fishing Laws Online Angling Tool (FLOAT), a map-based resource to find special fishing laws for inland waters.
• Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR): Visit maine.gov/dmr/recreational-fishing for saltwater recreational fishing regulations.
• Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention: For detailed fish consumption advisories, consult maine.gov/dhhs/fishandgamesafety.
• Maine Tourism: For accommodations and other travel information, you can contact Maine Tourism at 207-623-0363 or write to PO Box 2300, Hallowell, ME 04347-2300.

Maine truly is a “winter angler’s paradise” and a year-round destination for fishing enthusiasts. With proper preparation, respect for regulations, and an appreciation for its natural beauty, your fishing adventure in Maine is sure to be unforgettable. Tight lines!