The best fishing spots in Maine
As a state on the coast, Maine offers a host of saltwater and freshwater fishing options. It might surprise you to know that Maine has more than 6,000 ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers and streams. It also has more than 3,400 miles of shoreline, which is more than California! With so many options, you’ll need some help deciding where to begin your fishing adventure. We’ve compiled a list of a few of the best fishing spots in Maine to get you started.
Didn’t bring your fishing gear? Local guides will provide all of the necessary equipment and licensing. Feel free to ask Hartstone’s innkeepers for information on suggested guides.
Best fishing spots in Maine – Freshwater
Megunticook Lake is not only a great place to hike, it’s also a great place for freshwater fishing. Located in Camden Hills State Park, about 5 minutes from the Hartstone Inn, this crystal clear public lake spans 1,220 acres and features several islands. It’s easy to fish from the bank or shore, or rent a canoe or boat so you can enjoy floating on the lake while you wait for the fish to bite. The principal fish caught in Megunticook Lake are brown smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and white perch. Overlooking the picturesque lake is Mount Megunticook, elevation 1,385. If you have time after a day spent fishing, consider hiking the beautiful 3.5 mile trail that offers an incredible view from the top of Mount Megunticook.
The Penobscot River is another hot spot for freshwater fishing, in fact, the West Branch of the Penobscot River is known as a world class landlocked salmon river. It’s interesting to note how landlocked salmon got its name. Landlocked salmon are Atlantic salmon that do not journey to the sea, usually because of past human interference. The Eastern Branch of the Penobscot River is known for its quantities of brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass
Best fishing spots in Maine – Saltwater
Penobscot Bay is a great place close to “home” to catch mackerel, striped bass, bluefish and more. If you like the challenge of catching a big fish, consider a guided deep sea fishing adventure to catch sharks and tuna.
Don’t forget your fishing license
If you plan to fish, be sure to get a valid license. A license is required for all freshwater fishing and can be purchased at the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website.
You can purchase a saltwater fishing license from the Department of Marine Resources website.
If you are taking a guided fishing trip, the guides can help you obtain the proper licenses.
Free Fishing Days – No license required
Fish for free May 30 – 31, 2015. On these days, any person (except those whose license has been suspended or revoked) may fish without a license. All other laws and regulations apply on these days.
Hartstone Inn
The Hartstone Inn is an enchanting bed and breakfast hideaway in the heart of downtown Camden, Maine. Let the inn serve as your home base while you visit the area. Choose from any of our 21 elegant guest rooms and suites appointed with luxurious amenities, including soft robes, fine linens, and down quilts and pillows. Enjoy gourmet cuisine morning, afternoon and evening, and maybe even try your hand at preparing a gourmet meal or two yourself with a Foodie Adventure Packages. Our Camden bed and breakfast is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Photo Credit: InAweofGod’sCreation / Lake Megunticook / Flickr