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.

The Ultimate Guide to Salmon Fishing in Maine

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

Maine is home to some of the best salmon fishing in the United States, with pristine lakes and rivers offering incredible opportunities for both landlocked Atlantic salmon and sea-run Atlantic salmon. Whether you’re fly fishing, trolling, or casting, knowing where to fish and using the right techniques can make all the difference in landing a trophy salmon.

This guide covers everything you need to know about salmon fishing in Maine, including the top locations, best times of year, effective fishing techniques, and expert tips to help you have the most successful fishing trip possible.

Best Salmon Fishing Spots in Maine

Salmon thrive in Maine’s cold, clear waters, and certain lakes and rivers offer the best chances of success. Below are the top salmon fishing destinations and pro tips for each location.

East Grand Lake – A Salmon Angler’s Paradise

East Grand Lake is one of the best destinations in Maine for landlocked Atlantic salmon. This deep, clear-water lake provides a prime environment for large salmon to thrive year-round.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and fall when water temperatures are cool, and salmon are actively feeding near the surface.
Best Fishing Methods: Trolling with streamer flies or live bait.
Best Lures & Baits: Smelt-imitating crankbaits, spoons, and fly fishing streamers.
Fishing Tips: Troll just below the surface in spring and deeper (20-40 feet) in summer using downriggers or lead-core line.

West Grand Lake – Trophy-Sized Salmon Await

West Grand Lake is another top-tier salmon fishery known for its exceptionally large landlocked salmon. The lake is stocked annually, ensuring a healthy population for anglers.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and early summer when salmon are feeding actively.
Best Fishing Methods: Fly fishing, trolling with live bait, or deep jigging.
Best Lures & Baits: Silver or copper spoons, mooselook wobblers, and smelt imitations.
Fishing Tips: Look for salmon near deep drop-offs and where streams enter the lake, these areas provide excellent feeding zones.

The Penobscot River – Maine’s Premier Sea-Run Salmon Destination

The Penobscot River has long been known as one of the best rivers in Maine for sea-run Atlantic salmon, though strict conservation regulations are in place to protect this iconic species.

Best Time to Fish: May through July, when salmon are migrating upstream.
Best Fishing Methods: Fly fishing with traditional Atlantic salmon patterns.
Best Lures & Flies: Classic black ghost streamers, muddler minnows, and green highlanders.

Fishing Tip: Use sinking fly lines in deeper pools, and be prepared for catch-and-release restrictions to help preserve the salmon population.

Best Techniques for Catching Salmon

1. Trolling – Covering More Water for Big Results

Trolling is one of the most effective ways to catch salmon in large lakes like East Grand and West Grand.

Best Gear: Lead-core line or downriggers to keep lures at the right depth.
Best Lures: Smelt-imitating streamers, mooselook wobblers, and DB smelt spoons.
Key Tip: Vary trolling speeds (1.5 – 2.5 mph) to mimic natural baitfish movement.

2. Fly Fishing – A Classic Method for Salmon

Fly fishing is a highly rewarding method for catching salmon in both rivers and lakes.

Best Flies: Smelt streamers, woolly buggers, and classic salmon patterns.
Best Conditions: Early morning or late evening when salmon are most active.
Key Tip: Use a sinking fly line in deep water and floating line in shallower areas.

3. Casting – A Versatile Option for Active Salmon

Casting with spoons, jigs, or soft plastics can be effective when salmon are actively chasing baitfish.

Best Gear: Medium-action spinning rod with a 6-10 lb test line.
Best Lures: Kastmasters, Acme Phoebe spoons, and Rapala countdown minnows.
Key Tip: Retrieve lures with pauses to trigger reaction strikes.

Seasonal Guide: Best Times to Fish for Salmon in Maine

Salmon behavior changes with the seasons, and adjusting your techniques can significantly impact your success.

Spring (April – June): Salmon move near the surface. Trolling with streamers and spoons works best.
Summer (July – August): Salmon move deeper into cooler water. Use downriggers and deep-diving lures.
Fall (September – November): Salmon return to shallow waters to spawn. Fly fishing and casting near inlets are highly effective.
Winter (December – March): Ice fishing for salmon is popular. Use live smelt or jigging spoons.

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 to fish for salmon in Maine?

The best seasons for salmon fishing are spring and fall when salmon are actively feeding near the surface.

What’s the best way to catch salmon in East Grand Lake?

Trolling with streamer flies or live smelt is highly effective in spring and summer, while fly fishing near inlets works best in fall.

Do I need a fishing license for salmon fishing in Maine?

Yes. Anglers over 16 need a valid Maine fishing license, which you can purchase at Maine Fishing Regulations.

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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