Fishing Moosehead Lake, ME

AKA: Lake Moosehead

Boat and bank fishing

Last updated on February 8, 2026.

Popular Fish Species
Moosehead Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
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Moosehead Lake, ME

Popular Fish Species

Brook Trout Fishing

Fishing for brook trout in Moosehead Lake is popular due to the abundance of these tasty brookies. Over half of the brook trout landed from Moosehead Lake exceed 16 inches. Brook trout spawn in the Fall, rather than the Spring, and they are quite prolific spawners. Brookies are typically most active at dawn, and again at dusk. Other times they tend to move deeper and are more difficult to locate. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing. Brook trout can be easily caught on minnows, flies, small spinners, worms, maggots and wax worms.

Landlocked Atlantic Salmon Fishing

Often called the “king of fish”, Atlantic salmon live in both fresh and saltwater, which means they are anadromous. They are renowned for their impressive athleticism, and delectable taste. Native to the North Atlantic Ocean, these fish undertake extraordinary journeys from their natal rivers to distant feeding grounds in the open ocean and back again to spawn. In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in Moosehead Lake has grown in popularity. These are populations of Atlantic salmon that are confined to freshwater environments, unable to access the sea due to geographical barriers such as waterfalls or dams. Landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes exhibit similar behaviors to their sea-run counterparts, including feeding frenzies and impressive displays of strength when hooked. Anglers most often target landlocked salmon by trolling open water. The pursuit of landlocked Atlantic salmon also comes with a responsibility. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of these populations. Anglers must adhere to catch-and-release practices, follow local regulations, and support habitat restoration initiatives to safeguard the future of this cherished species.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Moosehead Lake is also home to a nice smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.

Lake & Fishing Video

Fishing tips for boat or bank fishing

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, brook trout, lake trout, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch and landlocked Atlantic salmon at Moosehead Lake in Maine.

The largest lake in Maine, Moosehead Lake is great place for vacationing, fishing and boating. This 75,000-acre provides excellent fishing opportunities for a wide variety of fish species.

Anglers are catching a variety of popular fish species. Smallmouth bass is one of the sought-after species here. Another prized catch in Moosehead Lake is the lake trout, also known as togue. Atlantic salmon fishing attracts anglers from far and wide. For those who prefer panfish fishing, there are yellow perch and white perch here in good numbers.

Enjoy the stunning views with over 400 miles of shoreline wrapping around the lake. Camping, lodging, cabins, marinas and stores welcome visitors during the season. During winter, Moosehead Lake provides quality ice fishing. Local fishing guides offer various fishing expeditions for novice and experienced anglers. Rental boats are available during spring, summer and fall, and there are plenty of places available for fishing from the bank. There are two boat launch ramps - Public Boat Access on the west side and Greenville Junction at the southern tip of the lake. Canoes, kayaks and car top boats can be portaged from numerous locations.

Primary fish species residing in Moosehead Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Moosehead Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

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Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

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Marinas

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Fishing License

Click here for a Maine Fishing License.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Moosehead Family Campground - 207 695-2210

Seboomook Wilderness Campground - 207 280-0555