What fish can I catch on a guided fishing trip?

Depending on the season and location, you can catch smallmouth bass, lake trout (togue), landlocked salmon, white perch, and chain pickerel.

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?

No, all fishing trips include high-quality rods, reels, bait, and tackle. You just need a valid Maine fishing license.

How long do guided trips last?

We offer half-day (4-hour), full-day (8-hour), and multi-day guided fishing trips.

How do I book a trip?

You can book directly on our website or call us at +1-XXX-XXX-XXXX to schedule your trip.

Fishing in Maine: Top Lakes, Species & Pro Tips from a Local Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Maine: Best Spots, Species, and Expert Tips

Maine is a fisherman’s paradise, offering endless opportunities to catch bass, trout, salmon, pike, and more in its pristine lakes, winding rivers, and coastal waters. Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to fishing in Maine, knowing the best locations, seasons, and techniques will help you make the most of your fishing trips.

In this guide, we’ll explore Maine’s top fishing spots, highlight the most popular fish species, and provide expert advice on gear, bait, and seasonal techniques.

Best Fishing Spots in Maine

Maine is home to some of the best freshwater and saltwater fishing in the country. Here are some of the must-visit fishing locations and what you can expect to catch.

East Grand Lake – Premier Freshwater Fishing

East Grand Lake is one of Maine’s top destinations for multi-species fishing, offering bass, salmon, lake trout, and cusk. This deep, cold-water lake is a favorite among anglers year-round.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and fall for salmon and trout, summer for bass.
Best Species: Smallmouth bass, lake trout, landlocked salmon, cusk.
Best Baits & Lures: Smelt imitations, crankbaits, soft plastics, and spoons.
Fishing Tips: Troll deep water for salmon and focus on rocky shorelines for smallmouth bass.

West Grand Lake – A Trophy Salmon & Trout Fishery

West Grand Lake is famous for its large landlocked salmon and brook trout, making it a top destination for anglers looking for trophy-sized fish.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and early summer.
Best Species: Landlocked salmon, brook trout, lake trout.
Best Baits & Lures: Streamer flies, mooselook wobblers, and live smelt.
Fishing Tips: Fly fish near inlets in spring or troll deep with spoons in summer.

Penobscot River – Maine’s Premier Smallmouth Bass River

The Penobscot River is a hotspot for smallmouth bass, offering fast action and aggressive strikes, especially in the warmer months.

Best Time to Fish: Summer and early fall.
Best Species: Smallmouth bass, northern pike, trout.
Best Baits & Lures: Jerkbaits, topwater poppers, spinnerbaits.
Fishing Tips: Fish near rocky drop-offs and current seams where bass hide to ambush prey.

Popular Fish Species in Maine

Maine’s waters are home to a diverse range of fish species, from freshwater predators to saltwater giants.

1. Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass

Best Locations: East Grand Lake, Penobscot River, Sebago Lake.
Best Fishing Techniques: Casting soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures.

2. Landlocked Salmon & Trout

Best Locations: West Grand Lake, Moosehead Lake, East Grand Lake.
Best Fishing Techniques: Trolling with spoons or fly fishing.

3. Northern Pike & Muskellunge

Best Locations: Belgrade Lakes, Penobscot River, Pushaw Lake.
Best Fishing Techniques: Using large swimbaits, spinnerbaits, and live bait.

4. Striped Bass & Saltwater Fishing

Best Locations: Kennebec River, Saco Bay, Casco Bay.
Best Fishing Techniques: Surfcasting, trolling, and fly fishing for stripers.

Best Fishing Techniques for Maine Waters

Depending on the season and target species, using the right fishing method can improve your success.

1. Trolling for Salmon & Trout

Best Gear: Lead-core line, mooselook wobblers, smelt imitations.
Key Tip: Adjust trolling speed and depth based on water temperature.

2. Fly Fishing for Brook Trout & Landlocked Salmon

Best Flies: Streamers, woolly buggers, dry flies.
Key Tip: Focus on inlets and outlets where trout feed actively.

3. Bass Fishing with Topwater Lures

Best Lures: Popper plugs, buzzbaits, frogs.
Key Tip: Fish early morning or late evening for explosive strikes.

4. Ice Fishing for Lake Trout & Cusk

Best Baits: Live smelt, jigging spoons.
Key Tip: Set tip-ups near deep drop-offs for coldwater species.

Discover a Wonderful Fishing Adventure in Maine

Want to make the most of spring fishing in Maine? Book a guided trip with William Apgar, an expert Maine fishing guide who knows the best early-season fishing spots and techniques to help you land trophy fish!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time of year to fish in Maine?

Spring and fall offer the best fishing conditions, as fish are actively feeding in cooler waters.

Do I need a fishing license to fish in Maine?

Yes, all anglers over 16 need a valid Maine fishing license, available at Maine Fishing Regulations.

What’s the best way to catch trophy fish in Maine?

Target prime feeding areas, use natural bait, and adjust your fishing method based on the season.

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Want seasonal fishing updates and expert tips? Subscribe to our First monthly Fishing Report for the latest on Maine’s best fishing spots, techniques, and gear recommendations. Know a friend who loves fishing? Share this guide with them!

Looking for the ultimate salmon fishing experience in Maine? Book a guided trip with William Apgar, a professional Maine fishing guide who knows the best locations, tactics, and techniques to help you land trophy salmon. Whether you’re new to salmon fishing or a seasoned angler, a guided trip maximizes your chances of success.

About William Apgar - Maine Guide

William Apgar – Maine Guide
Danforth, ME, 04424
(207) 746-8858