Ice Fishing Lakes In Maine

Guide to favorite fish species at top ice fishing lakes in the state

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Last updated on February 21, 2026.

The best ice fishing lakes in ME include Moosehead Lake, Sebago Lake and East Grand Lake. The most popular species through the ice, across the state, include trout, perch and pike. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about the best ice fishing lakes in the state, plus the species found in each lake. See a list of lakes and species below.

Ice fishing is about as basic as angling gets, yet modern innovations have made it more comfortable and efficient than ever. During winter, it remains a popular pursuit in the state, drawing anglers onto frozen lakes and ponds in search of panfish, perch, pickerel, trout, and more. While cutting a hole still requires an auger, now commonly a lightweight lithium-ion powered model. Today’s gear options also include specialized short ice rods, inline reels designed to reduce line twist, high-visibility braided line, and sensitive spring bobbers to detect subtle bites. Many anglers also use sonar-based flashers or compact forward-facing ice transducers to locate fish beneath the ice in real time.

Beyond the basics of rod, reel, line, and hook or lure, anglers frequently rely on tip-ups rigged with baited lines to cover multiple holes (when legal), as well as small tungsten jigs, soft-plastic micro baits, and glow-in-the-dark spoons for deeper water. Live bait such remains effective, while prepared dough baits are popular for stocked trout. Comfort and safety gear have also advanced significantly, with insulated flip-over shelters, portable hub-style ice tents, heated seat buckets, spud bars for checking ice thickness, ice cleats for traction, and float-assist ice suits adding both warmth and security. Though the fundamentals remain simple, today’s ice fishing experience blends tradition with practical, high-tech improvements.

Maine Ice Fishing is a beloved winter pastime for many anglers, offering a unique and exciting way to fish during the frozen months. Popular fish species targeted during ice fishing include lake trout (togue), brook trout, landlocked salmon, northern pike, and perch. These cold-water species are known for their fighting spirit and tasty fillets, making ice fishing a rewarding experience.

Ice Fishing Tips & Techniques Video

Anglers use various methods to catch fish through the ice. Ice fishing traps, also known as tip-ups, are a common tool. These devices have a flag that pops up when a fish takes the bait, alerting the angler to a potential catch. Ice fishing rods and reels are also used, especially for jigging or setting up a deadstick rig with live bait or artificial lures. Flashers and fish finders are valuable tools that help locate fish under the ice and determine their depth.

Safety

Safety is paramount in ice fishing due to the cold and potentially hazardous conditions. Before venturing out, anglers should ensure that the ice is safe and thick enough to support their weight. They should also carry ice picks, a rope, and a life jacket for added safety, especially when fishing on larger bodies of water. It's essential to dress warmly in layers and wear insulated, waterproof boots and gloves. Additionally, having a shelter or ice shanty provides protection from the wind and cold temperatures during the long hours on the ice.

Maine offers various lakes and ponds for ice fishing, each with its own unique charm and fishing opportunities. Many anglers frequent lakes like Moosehead Lake, Sebago Lake, and Rangeley Lake for their abundant fish populations and breathtaking winter scenery.

Overall, ice fishing in Maine is an exciting and rewarding winter activity that brings anglers closer to nature and provides the chance to catch some impressive fish. However, anglers should always prioritize safety and preparation to ensure a successful and enjoyable ice fishing experience.

Top Ice Fishing Lakes & Species

There are numerous places to go ice fishing in the state. Here are a list of some of the proven, best destinations.

Click the images for species details.

This is a great way to get the kids to go outdoors in winter, connect with nature and learn to fish. The first consideration when attempting to go ice fishing, is safety. Make sure the ice is safe, and that you are prepared should an accident occur. Dress to stay warm - it's better to remove extra jackets than be cold and miserable. Be aware that the ice can be slippery, and falls can be dangerous.

Click here for ice fishing basics, including details on finding the best place to fish, tips for cutting a hole, basic tackle, bait, lures, depths to fish, safety, shanty's, tents and huts.

Best ice fishing methods for crappie, bluegill, perch and sunfish

Horizontal jigs and spoon-type baits are the go-to baits for crappie, either tipped with a minnow, wax worm or prepared baits often triggers more bites. Jigs work better close to the bottom, spoons tend to work better higher in the water column. If options allow, 15 to 30 feet is the most common depth. Adjust as necessary. See additional info on ice fishing for crappie, perch and sunfish.

Best ice fishing methods for trout

Trout focus on small forage fish in winter, so baits that flash silver - jigs or spoons, do well in attracting trout. Dual rods, where legal, are very effective. One rod with a jig/live bait set up on a tip-up, the second with a spoon fished up and down pretty aggressively. See more detail about ice fishing for trout.

Best ice fishing methods for pike and musky

Live bait, shiners and sunfish, are a great way to attract these big fellahs, assuming local law allows their use. Heavier line, steel leaders, bigger hooks and stronger tip-ups are in order. See more information on ice fishing for pike and musky.

Click here for a Maine Fishing License.

Maine Map

States with notable ice fishing

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