Maine’s Top 17 Fishing Lakes and Rivers You Need to Discover 🌲
Maine, renowned for its rugged coastline and pristine wilderness, offers some of North America’s most spectacular fishing opportunities. From vast mountain lakes hosting trophy trout to crystal-clear streams teeming with native brook trout, the Pine Tree State delivers unparalleled angling experiences.
We’re counting down to Maine’s premier fishing destinations, revealing their unique features and the legendary fish that await your line!
Jump to a Lake
- #17 China Lake
- #16 Cobbosseecontee Lake
- #15 Messalonskee Lake
- #14 Long Lake
- #13 Androscoggin River
- #12 Rapid River
- #11 Kennebec River
Source: Pixabay
17. China Lake
Primary Target Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Perch, Yellow Perch, Chain Pickerel, Northern Pike.
Highlights: China Lake in Kennebec County near Vassalboro stands out as a premier bass fishing destination in Maine. Recently recognized by BASSMASTER as one of the top 100 bass lakes, ranking 9th in the Northeastern Division, this 3,844-acre lake offers exceptional year-round fishing opportunities.
It features clear waters with extensive shoreline including docks, fallen trees, and rocky outcrops. It has an average depth of 30 feet with a maximum depth of 85 feet, and multiple public access points are available.
- 🎣 Top 10 Bass Fishing Lures That Actually Work: Proven lures anglers swear by in lakes across the U.S.
Source: Pixabay
16. Cobbosseecontee Lake
Primary Target Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Perch, Chain Pickerel, Northern Pike.
Highlights: Often called “Cobbossee Lake,” this expansive water body in Kennebec County near Augusta and Gardiner spans over 5,500 acres. It is known for its diverse underwater structure including rocky points, submerged vegetation, and numerous coves that create ideal bass habitat.
It has an average depth of 36 feet with a maximum depth of 100 feet. Its crystal-clear waters support robust bass growth, and multiple public access points and boat ramps ensure easy access.
- 📋 U.S. Fishing License & Regulation Guide: Everything you need to know before casting your line.
Source: Pixabay
15. Messalonskee Lake
Primary Target Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Black Crappie, White Perch, Northern Pike, Walleye.
Highlights: This substantial Belgrade Lakes chain member offers diverse fishing opportunities in central Maine. It is known for excellent bass fishing and is home to the state record Black Crappie at 3 pounds, 9.76 ounces.
It is part of the famous Belgrade Lakes chain and provides excellent public access with multiple boat launches. It is known for trophy-sized crappie and consistent bass fishing.
- 🧭 Best Times of Year to Fish in Every State: Seasonal tips to help you plan the perfect fishing trip.
Source: Pixabay
14. Long Lake
Primary Target Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Brook Trout, White Perch, Chain Pickerel.
Highlights: Covering about 5,295 acres with a 38-mile perimeter, Long Lake in the southern Maine region provides diverse fishing experiences. The lake’s many coves and inlets offer ample opportunities for both shoreline and boat fishing.
It is a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels with good public access.
- 🏆 America’s 25 Most Legendary Fishing Spots: Bucket-list destinations for serious anglers.
Source: Pixabay
13. Androscoggin River
Primary Target Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike.
Highlights: The Androscoggin River takes an unusual path, beginning at Umbagog Lake on the western state border, flowing through New Hampshire, then returning to Maine. The upper section from New Hampshire into western Maine features trophy-sized brown and rainbow trout.
Rainbows and browns exceeding 20 inches are common near Umbagog Lake. U.S. Route 2 provides various access points along the most productive sections.
- 🧰 Essential Gear Checklist for Lake Fishing: Don’t leave home without these lake-tested essentials.
Source: Pixabay
12. Rapid River
Primary Target Species: Brook Trout, Landlocked Atlantic Salmon.
Highlights: The Rapid River is renowned as one of the best brook trout fisheries in the entire country. Camp records show anglers repeatedly catching 3-plus-pound brook trout, with five-pounders possible in the upper section flowing from Lower Richardson Lake.
It supports populations of landlocked Atlantic salmon, and many sections are fly fishing only, with limited public access that preserves fish quality.
- 🎣 Top 10 Bass Fishing Lures That Actually Work: Proven lures anglers swear by in lakes across the U.S.
Source: Pixabay
11. Kennebec River
Primary Target Species: Landlocked Atlantic Salmon, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Striped Bass, Alewives, Blueback Herring.
Highlights: This 170-mile river system is known for its incredible diversity of fish species. The East Outlet section below Moosehead Lake provides cold, clean water well into summer and offers some of Maine’s finest trout and salmon fishing.
Fly fishing only sections are available. The East Outlet offers year-round fishing opportunities and is excellent for both freshwater and anadromous species.