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Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide
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Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Maine is a legendary destination for freshwater anglers, famous for being the last major stronghold of native Eastern Brook Trout in the US. With over 6,000 lakes and ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers, the opportunities are endless.

The Prize Catch: Landlocked Salmon

Maine is one of the few places where Landlocked Salmon are native. These acrobatic fighters are found in deep, cold lakes like Sebago, Moosehead, and West Grand.

  • Technique: Trolling streamers (like the famous Grey Ghost) just after “ice-out” (usually late April/early May) is a time-honored tradition.
  • River Fishing: The West Branch of the Penobscot and Grand Lake Stream are world-renowned for fly fishing for salmon.

Native Brook Trout

Remote ponds in the North Woods and “Heritage Fish Waters” offer the chance to catch these beautiful fish in pristine wilderness settings.

  • Rapid River: Famous for large, wild brook trout.
  • Rangeley Lakes: Historic fly-fishing waters known for producing trophy fish.

Saltwater Action

Don’t forget the coast. Surfcasting for Striped Bass (“Stripers”) is a summer obsession along beaches and river mouths from Kittery to the Kennebec. Mackerel fishing off public piers is a great, family-friendly activity.

Seasons by Species

  • Ice Out (April-May): Peak Trolling for Salmon and Lake Trout (Togue).
  • Spring/Early Summer (May-June): Prime Fly Fishing for Brook Trout (Hatches) and Stripers returning to the coast.
  • Summer (July-Aug): Bass fishing in lakes; offshore saltwater fishing.
  • Fall (Sept): “The Second Season.” Brookies and Salmon color up and become aggressive before spawning.
  • Winter (Jan-March): Ice Fishing. A cultural phenomenon in Maine involving “hardwater,” traps (tip-ups), and ice shacks on frozen lakes.

Know the Rules

Maine’s fishing laws are famously complex to protect native species.

  • General Law: The baseline rules for the state.
  • S-Codes: Special regulations for specific bodies of water (e.g., Artificial Lures Only, Fly Fishing Only).
  • Check the Book: Always carry a current law book (or the app) and check the S-codes for your specific location.

Highlights & Species

Native Brook Trout
Landlocked Salmon
Striped Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Ice Fishing

Pro Tips

  • !

    Always check the specific regulations for the body of water you're fishing—Maine's laws can be complex (S-Codes).

  • !

    Hire a registered Maine Guide for remote excursions to increase your success and safety.

  • !

    Don't forget ice fishing season! It's a social and productive way to fish through the winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license in Maine?

Yes, anyone 16 years or older needs a valid Maine fishing license. Residents pay about $25, non-residents $64 for a season. Buy online via MOSES or at general stores statewide.

What fish can you catch in Maine?

Maine offers native brook trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass, lake trout (togue), brown trout, and saltwater species like striped bass and mackerel.

What is the best time for fly fishing?

Spring (May-June) for streamers and nymphs; early summer for dry fly hatches. Fall (September) offers aggressive pre-spawn fish.

Can I keep what I catch?

It depends. Many waters, especially for trout and salmon, have strict length and bag limits or are Catch-and-Release only. Always check S-codes for your specific water.

Where is the best fishing in Maine?

For brook trout: Rangeley Lakes and remote North Woods ponds. For landlocked salmon: Sebago Lake, Moosehead Lake, West Grand Lake. For bass: Belgrade Lakes chain. For stripers: Kennebec River mouth and southern beaches.

Best Regions

Know the Laws

Make sure you have the proper licenses and know the current regulations before you go.

View Official Rules