Fishing Locations

The Top Fishing Locations in Maine

Great Spots for both Fresh & Saltwater Fishing

  • Anyone under 16 years old may fish in Maine without a license. Older people must obtain a license before fishing in inland waters or transporting fish from inland waters.
  • Seasonal fishing licenses cost $25 for Maine residents 16 and older, and $64 for non-residents. Licenses can be obtained from agents throughout the state at sporting goods stores, many convenience stores, at town clerk offices, or online from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Non-residents may also purchase a license by mail. Call 207-287-8000 for more information.
  • Maine Tide Charts

13 places to visit

  • Kennebunk, ME

    Kennebunk and Mousam Rivers

    Popular area for striped bass fishing.
  • Princeton, ME

    Grand Lakes Area

    Princeton is the gateway to a fisherman's paradise, featuring dozens of lakes, streams and rivers and plenty of varied fish to challenge all season long.
  • Mount Chase, ME

    Shin Pond

    Dotted with resorts and beaches, this body of water will provide visitors with just about every type of activity, from fishing and boating, to sea plane rides.
    Off NH Route 159
  • Millinocket, ME

    Baxter State Park

    People of all ages and skill levels can enjoy many types of fishing at this park, from ponds to streams to whole lakes. Check each fishing area for special regulations.
  • Medway, ME

    Eastern Branch of the Penobscot River

    Fishermen will enjoy this river with its supply of Atlantic Salmon and large mouth bass. The scenery along the river makes it a great canoeing spot.
    Along Route 11
  • Kokadjo, ME

    The Kokadjo Area

    The streams and ponds around in and around Kokadjo are known for some of the best fly fishing in Maine.
  • Rockwood, ME

    Spencer Pond

    This pond is a good area for fishing and game hunting.
  • Weld, ME

    Tumbledown Mountain

    Trails of varying difficulty greet hikers on this three-peaked mountain. The shortest and easiest is the Brook Trail, which is only a 1.5-mile round trip. The Loop Trail affords views of the Great Ledges, and the Chimney Trail is an extremely difficult hike to the summit. Fishing can be had at Tumbledown Pond, reached along the Brook Trail. Here are some of the bodies of fresh water in the Western Lakes and Mountains region that provide fine fishing experiences:
  • In the Rangeley area, try Rangeley lake, Cupsuptic Lake, Quimby Pond, Dodge Pond, Big Kennabago Stream, Little Kennebago Stream, Loon Lake, Richardson Lake, Mooselookmeguntic Lake, and Aziscohos.
  • Further south, fisherman will enjoy the offerings at Sebago Lake, Long Lake, Crystal Lake, Panther Pond and more.
  • Trails off Weld-to-Byron Road
  • Belgrade, Oakland, and nearby towns, ME

    Belgrade Lakes region

    The Belgrade lakes, just north of Augusta, is a chain of seven fresh water lakes. All the lakes have excellent fishing and state-operated boat launches. Open water fishing and ice fishing is permitted. Expect to find brown trout, brook trout, salmon, smelt, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white perch, pickerel, northern pike. See Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife for more information and fishing licenses.
    Ponds include Great Pond in Belgrade and Rome, off routes 27, 8, and 225; Messalonskee Lake in Belgrade, Oakland, Sidney, off routes 8, 11, and 23; North Pond in Mercer and Smithfield, off routes 8 or 137 or Caswell Road; East Pond in Oakland and Smithfield, off East Pond Road.