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.

Late-Season Ice Fishing in Maine: Catch More Before the Ice Melts

Late-Season Ice Fishing in Maine: How to Catch More Fish Before the Ice Melts

As winter starts to fade, late-season ice fishing in Maine offers some of the most exciting opportunities to catch trophy fish. With warming temperatures and thinning ice, fish become more active, making it a prime time to target lake trout, salmon, and bass. However, changing ice conditions require anglers to adjust their strategies and prioritize safety.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about late-season ice fishing in Maine, including top fishing spots, must-know safety tips, and expert strategies for maximizing your success before the ice disappears.

Best Late-Season Ice Fishing Spots in Maine

Not all lakes remain safe for ice fishing as the season ends, but these spots tend to hold thicker ice longer and offer excellent fishing opportunities.

East Grand Lake – Late-Season Stronghold

East Grand Lake remains a top destination for ice anglers looking to squeeze in a few more trips before the ice melts. Its deep, cold waters hold lake trout, landlocked salmon, and cusk.

Best Time to Fish: Early morning and just before sunset.
Target Species: Lake trout, landlocked salmon, cusk.
Best Baits & Techniques: Jigging with tube jigs and live smelt under tip-ups.
Safety Tip: Stick to heavily shaded areas where ice melts more slowly.

Spednic Lake – Late-Season Trophy Fishing

Spednic Lake is known for its exceptional late-ice smallmouth bass and perch fishing. Warmer days cause increased fish activity, making for fast action near the shallows.

Best Time to Fish: Midday when fish move to sunlit areas.
Target Species: Smallmouth bass, white perch, northern pike.
Best Baits & Techniques: Use small jigs tipped with wax worms or live minnows under tip-ups.
Safety Tip: Always check for slush layers, as melting snow can weaken ice unexpectedly.

West Grand Lake – Coldwater Species Hotspot

West Grand Lake is a prime late-ice location for landlocked salmon and lake trout. Coldwater species remain active throughout the season, offering great jigging opportunities.

Best Time to Fish: Late afternoon when fish move into feeding mode.
Target Species: Landlocked salmon, lake trout.
Best Baits & Techniques: Jigging with spoons or live smelt rigs.
Safety Tip: Avoid areas near inlets and moving water, as these spots thin out first.

Late-Season Ice Fishing Techniques

As the season winds down, fish become more aggressive, but ice conditions change rapidly. Here’s how to adapt your tactics for late-season success.

1. Target Shallow Water

As the ice starts to melt, oxygen levels increase in shallow areas, drawing fish closer to shore.

Best Depths: 5-15 feet for perch and bass, 15-30 feet for trout and salmon.
Best Baits: Small jigs tipped with worms or smelt.
Pro Tip: Look for weed beds or rocky areas where fish congregate.

2. Downsize Your Lures

With warmer water and more active fish, downsizing your bait can trigger more bites.

Best Lures: Tiny tungsten jigs, spoons, or micro soft plastics.
Pro Tip: Use slow, subtle jigging motions to mimic natural prey movements.

3. Use Tip-Ups with Live Bait

Tip-ups become even more effective in late ice conditions, especially for pike, trout, and cusk.

Best Live Bait: Smelt, shiners, or suckers.
Pro Tip: Set tip-ups at varied depths to find the feeding zone.

Ice Safety Tips for Late-Season Fishing

Late ice fishing can be rewarding, but it comes with risks. Follow these safety precautions to stay safe on the ice:

Always check ice thickness: At least 4 inches for walking, 6+ inches for snowmobiles.
Avoid dark or slushy areas: These indicate weak, melting ice.
Carry safety gear: Bring ice picks, a spud bar, and a throw rope.
Fish with a buddy: Never fish alone in late-season conditions.
Know your exit routes: Plan a quick exit in case ice conditions deteriorate.

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

Is late-season ice fishing safe?

Yes, but it requires extra caution. Always check ice conditions, bring safety gear, and fish with a buddy.

What fish are most active during late ice?

Lake trout, landlocked salmon, perch, and northern pike tend to be more aggressive as the ice thins.

What’s the best late-season ice fishing bait?

Live bait (smelt, minnows, shiners) works best under tip-ups, while small tungsten jigs and spoons are great for jigging.

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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