The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Maine Ranked

If you’ve ever fished in Maine, you know how many great lakes are out there. It’s one of the best states for freshwater fishing, with everything from quiet ponds to big, open lakes full of action. I’ve spent time fishing all across Maine, but I knew I couldn’t put this list together alone. So I asked local anglers for their input and ran polls on social media to get even more opinions.

Some of the lakes on this list are well-known, while others were picked by folks who fish them every weekend. We looked at things like how easy they are to get to, what kind of fish you can catch, and how consistent the bite is through the seasons. Whether you’re after bass, trout, salmon, or pike, there’s something here for every kind of angler.

This isn’t a ranking from best to worst. Every spot on this list has its own strengths, and we kept it real with local knowledge and actual fishing experience. If you’re planning your next trip or just curious what others recommend, these 30 lakes are a solid place to start. Tight lines.

30. Long Lake

Long Lake stretches across the towns of Naples, Bridgton, and Harrison, offering one of the most consistent fishing spots in southern Maine. Anglers come here year-round for smallmouth bass, landlocked salmon, and lake trout. The shoreline mixes quiet coves and rocky drop-offs, giving you plenty of options depending on what you’re after. In winter, ice fishing draws steady crowds. It’s a long, narrow lake with enough depth to support cold-water species, but still shallow enough along the edges for warm-water fish. Whether you’re casting from shore or a canoe, Long Lake is the kind of place folks return to often.

29. North Pond

North Pond sits just west of Belgrade, not far from Maine’s central lakes region. It’s the kind of spot where early mornings mean glassy water and the sound of loons carrying across the surface. Anglers come here for bass, perch, and pickerel, especially in the summer and fall. The shoreline mixes camps and woods, giving you that tucked-away feel without being totally remote. It’s connected to Great Pond by a narrow channel, so water levels and fish activity can shift with the seasons. Simple, peaceful, and reliable—North Pond is a solid choice for anyone looking for good fishing and quiet days.

28. Round Pond

Round Pond sits tucked between quiet woods and low hills in Maine. It’s not big, but it holds plenty of chances to hook brook trout, bluegill, and pumpkinseed. Locals like to fish from the shore or bring canoes and paddle out for the deeper spots. The water tends to be clear, with weed beds that attract fish in the warmer months. It’s the kind of place where you don’t feel rushed. Just you, the water, and whatever bites. Even on busier weekends, it still feels personal. Bring a cooler, some patience, and you’re set for a solid day of fishing.

27. Annabessacook Lake

Annabessacook Lake sits between Monmouth and Winthrop in central Maine. It’s a great spot for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, and perch. The lake has a mix of rocky points, weedy sections, and deep holes that offer different fishing conditions depending on the season. Locals say early mornings and late evenings are the best times to cast. There’s public access for launching small boats, and plenty of shoreline for casting from land. It’s the kind of lake where patience usually pays off, especially if you’re after bigger bass or a surprise pike.

26. Panther Pond

Panther Pond in Maine has a solid reputation among locals who fish for fun and those who fish to fill the freezer. It’s known for its bass—both largemouth and smallmouth—as well as brown trout and perch. The shoreline has a mix of wooded areas and camps, giving it a more relaxed feel than busier lakes. Fishing is steady year-round, and early mornings are usually best if you’re going after bass. In the winter, it’s a go-to spot for ice fishing. It’s the kind of lake people return to because it’s dependable, easy to access, and has a bit of everything.

25. Little Sebago Lake

Little Sebago Lake sits in southern Maine and is well known among locals for bass fishing. The lake has lots of coves and channels, giving anglers plenty of spots to work with. You’ll find both smallmouth and largemouth bass here, along with perch and pickerel. It’s a solid place for early morning casts or late summer evenings on the water. The shoreline is a mix of rocky edges, sandy spots, and docks, which helps bring in a variety of fish. Even when it’s busy, it’s easy to find a quiet corner to fish from shore or a small boat.

24. Great East Lake

Great East Lake sits right on the Maine–New Hampshire border and has been a favorite for anglers for years. It’s known for cold, deep water that’s great for lake trout and landlocked salmon. The lake also holds healthy numbers of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and white perch. You’ll find rocky shores, clear water, and lots of structure that makes fishing interesting. Early morning and evening are usually the best times to cast. While some spots get busy in the summer, you can still find quiet areas if you head out during the week. Locals say fall is especially good for bigger fish.

23. Pleasant Lake

Pleasant Lake sits quietly on the border of Otisfield and Casco. It’s well-known by local anglers for its healthy population of largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and yellow perch. The water here runs clear and deep, which helps the salmon grow strong. You’ll find both rocky and sandy spots around the shoreline, making it a solid place to fish from shore or by canoe. Locals often cast early in the morning when things are calm. While it’s popular in the summer, spring and fall also offer solid fishing without the crowd. It’s a good lake if you’re looking for consistency without surprises.

22. Nequasset Lake

Nequasset Lake, tucked in Woolwich, is known for its strong alewife run and steady fishing. Anglers often come here for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, perch, and chain pickerel. The lake stays fairly quiet most of the year, making it easier to focus on casting lines instead of dodging crowds. In early summer, the fish are more active, especially near the edges and around structure. Locals know it’s a solid spot to bring kids or just kill an afternoon. Water clarity can shift with the season, but the bite usually stays decent. It’s simple, low-key fishing, the way it ought to be.

21. Meddybemps Lake

Meddybemps Lake sits up near the Canadian border in eastern Maine and has a real local feel to it. It’s a solid pick for folks chasing smallmouth bass, perch, and pickerel. The lake’s shoreline twists and turns, creating plenty of quiet coves and inlets that fish love to hide in. It’s not packed with crowds, so you’ll usually have room to cast without much noise. Early mornings and cooler evenings tend to be the best times to head out. Whether you’re in a kayak or fishing from shore, Meddybemps gives you space and time to focus on what you came for.

20. Great Pond

Great Pond is one of central Maine’s most well-known fishing spots, and for good reason. It’s loaded with smallmouth and largemouth bass, and there’s plenty of room to find a quiet corner to cast from a boat or canoe. You’ll also find brown trout and perch if you’re willing to change up your gear. The lake has a wide shoreline, a mix of rocky sections and weedy cover, and some deeper pockets that hold fish even in the heat of summer. It’s popular, but never feels too busy if you time it right. Locals and visitors keep coming back year after year.

19. Schoodic Lake

Schoodic Lake is a quiet, deep lake in central Maine that’s known for its strong coldwater fishery. It is most popular for fishing smallmouth bass, lake char, and brook trout. The water stays cold even in summer, which helps keep fish active. The shoreline is mostly undeveloped, with tall trees right up to the water in many spots. That gives it a wild, remote feel even though it’s not far from town. People who fish here often say it’s one of the better lakes for catching quality salmon without a ton of boat traffic or noise.

18. Thomas Pond

Thomas Pond is a solid spot for folks who like fishing without all the noise. It’s located in Casco, Maine and stays pretty quiet, even in summer. The water is clear, with a nice mix of shallow and deeper areas. Anglers come here mostly for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and trout, but you might pull in a pickerel or two. It’s the kind of lake where you can take your time and focus on what’s biting. There’s shoreline access in a few areas, and kayaks or canoes are a good way to get around. If you’re patient, this place usually rewards you.

17. Lake Auburn

Lake Auburn sits just outside Lewiston and Auburn and is known for its clean, deep water. It is most popular for fishing largemouth bass, yellow perch, and smallmouth bass. The shore is mostly wooded, which helps keep the area quiet. Local anglers say it’s a good spot for early morning fishing, especially in spring and fall. Access is limited to a few points, so plan ahead. It’s a peaceful lake that’s more about patience than action. If you’re into slow, thoughtful fishing, this one might suit you.

16. Maranacook Lake

Maranacook Lake sits in central Maine and offers a solid mix of fishing opportunities. The lake is known for its healthy populations of smallmouth and largemouth bass, especially in the warmer months. In deeper areas, anglers often go for lake trout and salmon. The water stays clear most of the year, which helps with sight fishing near rocky shorelines and drop-offs. There’s a good mix of shallow coves and deeper basins, so it suits both boat and shoreline fishing. It’s a favorite spot for locals who fish year-round, including ice fishing once the lake freezes solid in winter.

15. Pushaw Lake

Pushaw Lake sits just outside Bangor and is known for its steady fishing, especially during the early mornings and late evenings. Anglers often come here for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and white perch. The shoreline mixes sandy areas with patches of woods, offering plenty of good casting spots from shore or kayak. Locals say it’s a great place to fish without dealing with big crowds. The lake tends to stay fairly calm, which makes it easier to spot fish activity. If you’re looking for a simple lake that consistently produces, Pushaw is definitely one worth remembering. Bring extra bait—fish are active here.

14. Megunticook Lake

Megunticook Lake sits just outside Camden, surrounded by wooded hills and quiet coves. It’s one of the deeper lakes in the area, which helps keep it cooler during the summer—something fish seem to like. Anglers come here for a solid mix of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, lake trout, and landlocked salmon. The deeper channels are great for trolling, while the rocky shoreline and scattered ledges make good spots for casting. What makes Megunticook different is how close it is to the coast, yet it still feels tucked away. You can fish early and be in town by lunch without driving far. The lake’s shape also gives you lots of choices—long stretches, little bays, narrow sections—so it doesn’t get crowded easily. Whether you’re out in a canoe or just fishing from shore, there’s a lot of room to try different techniques. It’s reliable, peaceful, and a favorite for folks who come back every year.

13. Moose Pond

Moose Pond in western Maine has a steady reputation among local anglers. The long, narrow shape of the lake gives it a mix of shallow coves and deeper channels, which makes it a good spot for both bass and trout. You’ll find smallmouth hanging around rocky points and ledges, especially early in the day. In deeper areas, lake trout tend to hold near the bottom, especially in cooler months. The north end near Bridgton is known for more action, while the southern stretch is quieter and better for slow trolling or casting from shore. The pond also gets stocked, so there’s usually something biting. Local bait shops can point you in the right direction if you’re not familiar with the area. Overall, Moose Pond gives you a little bit of everything without feeling too busy, especially on weekdays. It’s the kind of lake that rewards patience and pays off if you put in the time.

12. Androscoggin Lake

Androscoggin Lake sits quietly between the towns of Wayne and Leeds in central Maine. It’s a solid spot for fishing, especially if you’re after warmwater species. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are popular catches here, and some locals swear the bass bite better right after sunrise. The lake has shallow areas mixed with deeper channels, so it helps to know where to cast. There’s also a good chance you’ll hook into pickerel, perch, or even a brown trout if conditions are right. A few weedy patches make perfect hiding spots for fish, but can be a challenge for beginners. The shoreline is mostly wooded, with a few camps scattered around, giving it a quiet, back-to-nature feel without being too far off the map. You’ll see loons and maybe even an eagle overhead while you wait for a bite. It’s a spot worth coming back to once you learn its patterns.

11. Messalonskee Lake

Messalonskee Lake sits in central Maine and has a laid-back feel that’s great for fishing. It’s known for both warmwater and coldwater fish like largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brown trout, perch, and pike. Locals call it “Snow Pond,” and it stretches across a few towns, so there are plenty of spots to cast a line. The shoreline is dotted with camps and cottages, giving it a lived-in, relaxed vibe. Some parts are quiet and shallow, while others run deep enough for bigger fish to hide out. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the best times to catch something worthwhile. There’s good public access too, so you don’t need to own property to get out there. In summer, it’s active without being too crowded. Come fall, the changing leaves add a nice backdrop while you fish. It’s the kind of lake that keeps regulars coming back every season with new stories to tell.

10. China Lake

China Lake sits right between Vassalboro and China, Maine. It’s a long, narrow lake with quiet spots and steady fishing. Anglers head here for bass—both largemouth and smallmouth show up often—and it’s also got white perch and chain pickerel. The shoreline has a mix of camps, homes, and woods, giving it a natural feel even when it’s busy in the summer. The lake has a northern and eastern basin, which split it into two very different fishing experiences. The eastern side is deeper and better for bass, while the northern section is shallower and weedy—great for pickerel. Locals know it can get weedy later in the season, so spring and early summer tend to be the best time to go. There’s also a solid smelt population, which helps support healthy predator fish. It’s not the flashiest lake around, but it’s reliable, productive, and worth the time if you’re after steady action.

9. Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake sits in northern Maine, where the land starts to feel a little more remote. It’s the biggest lake in the state, and people come here for more than just the size. The water runs deep and cold, which makes it a great spot for landlocked salmon, brook trout, and lake trout. Spring and fall are especially good times to fish here, when the temps are cooler and the fish are more active. Even in summer, early mornings can bring solid bites. The lake has a bunch of inlets, islands, and rocky points, which all give fish places to hide. Whether you’re casting from shore or a small boat, there’s room to spread out and try your luck. Moosehead Lake has a long fishing tradition, and it’s one of those places where folks come back year after year because it just keeps delivering.

8. Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake is one of Maine’s most well-known spots for fishing, especially if you’re hoping to catch landlocked salmon. It’s deep, cold, and full of structure that gives fish plenty of places to roam. That can make things challenging, but also worth it when you hook into something big. The lake also has lake trout, smallmouth bass, and even some brown trout. Whether you’re casting from shore or trolling from a boat, there’s a lot of variety here. Locals often head out early in the morning when the water’s calm and the bite is more active. Winter ice fishing also draws crowds once it’s thick enough. Because Sebago connects to smaller rivers and streams, it’s a good place for year-round fishing, even outside of peak season. If you’re looking for a lake that keeps you on your toes, Sebago’s size and mix of species make it a solid choice.

7. Runaround Pond

Runaround Pond in Durham is a quiet, tree-lined spot that’s great for folks who just want to fish without a lot of distractions. The water is usually calm, and there’s easy shoreline access, especially near the launch area. It’s a good place for catching bass and pickerel, and you might also reel in a perch or two. What sets it apart is the pace—it’s slow, relaxed, and often not very crowded. Early mornings are best if you like fishing with birdsong instead of noise. There’s a small parking area and a simple launch that works well for canoes and kayaks. Locals tend to keep it low-key, and you probably won’t see many big groups. If you’re looking for a fishing trip that’s more about patience and stillness than action, Runaround Pond might be your kind of place. It’s the kind of spot where one or two good bites can make the whole day worth it.

6. Mousam Lake

Mousam Lake, located in southern Maine, is a popular fishing spot that sees action year-round. It’s known for its healthy populations of smallmouth and largemouth bass, along with brown trout, pickerel, and perch. In the warmer months, anglers cast from boats or shoreline, especially around rocky points and weedy coves where bass tend to hold. During winter, the lake turns into an ice fishing destination with steady catches of pickerel and panfish. Locals often talk about the lake’s changing personality. Some days it’s calm and easy going; others, it challenges even the experienced folks. The water clarity here is good enough to sight fish in some areas, which adds a bit of fun if you like spotting your target. Mousam Lake isn’t flashy, but it’s steady, reliable, and keeps people coming back. Whether you’re out early for that morning bite or ice fishing with friends, it offers solid fishing and simple Maine charm.

5. Graham Lake

Graham Lake sits in eastern Maine and has a reputation for being a strong fishing spot, especially for smallmouth bass. The lake has a long, narrow shape with plenty of coves, drop-offs, and underwater structure, which makes it easy to find fish—if you’re patient. Local anglers say the early morning hours are best for topwater action, especially during the summer months. There’s also a solid chance of hooking chain pickerel, yellow perch, or even the occasional brown trout. What stands out about Graham is how it changes throughout the day. In the morning, it’s usually calm and quiet, but by afternoon the wind can pick up and change how you fish. It’s the kind of lake where knowing your gear and watching the weather can make a big difference. Most people who fish here come back with stories, whether or not they leave with a full cooler.

4. Roberts Pond

Roberts Pond sits quietly in central Maine, offering a low-key spot for fishing without the fuss. It’s not a place that gets a ton of attention, and that’s part of its charm. The shoreline is a mix of woods and reeds, and the water has a slow, steady feel to it. You’ll mostly see locals fishing for largemouth bass and pickerel, especially early in the morning or just before sunset. The access is simple, and parking isn’t a hassle. People come here more for the experience than the size of their catch. It’s the kind of place where you can focus on your line, enjoy the quiet, and not feel rushed. There’s no showy setup—just water, trees, and enough space to cast. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for somewhere easy to get to that still feels off the beaten path without needing to travel deep into the woods.

3. Sabattus Pond

Sabattus Pond in Maine is a favorite for local anglers, especially those chasing bass. It’s not a deep lake, and that makes it easy to fish in most spots. Largemouth bass are common, but you’ll also find northern pike, which can put up a serious fight. In spring and fall, shore fishing can be productive, but a kayak or canoe gives you more options. The pond’s shoreline is a mix of homes, camps, and woods, which makes it feel pretty relaxed without being out in the middle of nowhere. Water clarity changes depending on the season and rain, so don’t expect crystal clear views every time. Early mornings and late evenings are usually the best times to fish, especially during warmer months. Locals know where the hot spots are, but it doesn’t take long to figure them out. If you’re looking for a low-pressure place to fish with solid variety, Sabattus is worth a shot.

2. Little Ossipee Pond

Little Ossipee Pond is a calm, quiet spot in southern Maine that’s great for fishing. The shoreline has a mix of homes, trees, and small inlets where fish like to hang out. Anglers often go here for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout. It’s not a massive lake, but it’s got enough variety to keep things interesting. Some parts are shallow, while others drop off quickly, so you’ve got options depending on what you’re targeting. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be best for bites, especially in the warmer months. People who fish here like that it feels relaxed—less traffic, more focus. There’s space for casting from a kayak or a canoe, and plenty of shoreline spots if you don’t want to be on the water. If you’re looking for a lake where you can actually hear the birds and just fish without a bunch of noise, this one’s worth checking out.

1. Lake Cobbosseecontee

Lake Cobbosseecontee, located in central Maine, is well known among local anglers for its steady bass action. It’s packed with structure—rocky points, coves, and islands—that make it a great spot for both smallmouth and largemouth bass. What makes this lake stand out is how consistent the fishing can be throughout the seasons. Whether you’re casting from a canoe, kayak, or just working the shoreline, you’ll find plenty of fish-holding areas. Early mornings often bring surface action, while deeper channels produce solid results later in the day. Along with bass, you might run into pickerel or perch without much effort. The lake’s layout gives you a lot of options, so even on a busy day, it’s not hard to find your own quiet pocket to fish. If you like a lake that feels familiar after a few trips but still holds surprises, Cobbosseecontee is worth checking out.

More Info About Fishing Lakes in Maine

If you’re planning a trip to Maine to fish, you’re in good shape. Whether you want quiet waters or bigger lakes with more action, Maine has options. Many lakes are stocked with trout, salmon, bass, and pike. Regulations and access points can vary depending on the lake, so it’s a good idea to check with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife before you go. They have a handy online guide and an app that lists boat launches, rules, and stocking reports.

You’ll also want to look at seasonal fishing regulations. Some lakes are open year-round, while others are closed part of the year or limited to certain methods (like fly fishing only).

Lodging is usually easy to find near popular lakes, especially in areas like the Belgrade Lakes region, Moosehead Lake, or Sebago Lake. If you’re more into a remote vibe, there are plenty of lodges and camps farther north.

FAQ: Fishing Lakes in Maine

Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a Maine fishing license. You can buy it online or at most sporting goods stores.

What kinds of fish can I catch in Maine lakes?
You’ll find brook trout, landlocked salmon, lake trout (togue), smallmouth and largemouth bass, white perch, chain pickerel, and more depending on the lake.

When’s the best time to fish?
Spring and fall are top choices for trout and salmon. Bass fishing heats up in summer. Ice fishing is popular in winter on many lakes.

Are there boat rentals available?
Yes, especially around larger lakes. Places like Moosehead and Sebago often have outfitters that rent boats, canoes, or even guided fishing trips.

Can I fish from shore?
Absolutely. Some lakes have public access with docks or rocky shorelines you can fish from. But a small boat or kayak definitely helps.

Where can I find local fishing rules?
Head over to maine.gov/ifw — they update rules every year and break them down by region and lake.