Winter fishing can pose a problem for some anglers. But not in the Pine Tree State – the ice fishing Maine has to offer will keep you busy all winter! You can stay warm and toasty in ice shacks while you wait for a fish to bite.
What to Catch
Winter fishing offers up a treat to anglers of all skill levels. If you want to hit big numbers, spend your trip targeting Cusk – they receive hardly any fishing pressure during the rest of the year. This makes them bountiful and big, reaching up to 10 pounds. You can also target Landlocked Salmon, Brown Trout, Togue, Pike, and Perch.
Where to Go
When the ice is over 4 inches thick, it becomes safe to ice fish. There are hundreds of lakes to choose from and 37,000 miles of rivers. They each have their own regulations, so have a look at what you can fish for before you go.
Moosehead Lake
One of the most prolific spots, this lake is over 40 miles long and 12 miles wide in some places. You’ll be ice fishing for Lake Trout, Brown Trout, Salmon, Togue, and Smallmouth Bass in the shadow of Mount Kineo. The flags on your traps will be waving non-stop here!
Sebago Lake
For big Trout, try ice fishing in Sebago Lake. You can regularly catch Trout in the 10 lb range. Due to the sheer size of the lake, you’re better off waiting until February, once it has had time to properly freeze over. Also biting well here are Cusk and Togue.
East Grand Lake
East Grand Lake is over 20 miles long and is a top spot for Brook Trout and Bass, which can be caught year-round via different techniques. When ice fishing in the winter, a top species to target is the naturally nocturnal Cusk. However, a good time to catch them during the day is in March when they spawn. Head to the sandy coves of East Grand Lake for great results.
Norcross Pond
Norcross Pond in Franklin County has a maximum depth of 24 feet. It’s a good spot for catching White Perch, Pickerel, Trout, and Largemouth Bass. The stocked Trout regularly reach lengths of 13 inches.
Allagash Lake
If escaping the daily hubbub of life is a top priority for you, try ice fishing from Allagash Lake in northern Maine. You’ll be able to target Trout, Salmon, and even a Pike or two. Dress warm, temperatures can get as low as -4°F in the heart of winter.
How to Fish
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Layers, layers, layers! Dress for the conditions, with wool socks that are a little bit loose, insulated boots, water resistant outerwear, and fleece sweaters.
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You can legally ice fish with up to 5 lines maximum. Check on your traps at least once an hour. If your bait is missing but you’re not catching anything, loosen the tension bolt.
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By the end of the winter in March, target the mouth of the spawning streams – follow the smelt and the Salmon will come! Salmon can't resist smelt!
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For Brown Trout, fish in shallow waters using minnows, crayfish, and worms.
When to Go
A lot of the fisheries in Maine open up to ice fishing in January, and stay open until March. There are some that can be fished before that, if the ice is thick enough! Check out the regulations for each lake online before you fish.
There are ice fishing derbies throughout January and March, so grab your fishing buddy and have fun ice fishing in Maine this winter!
