Fishing in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park and the surrounding area has many freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. Lakes and ponds can have several species of freshwater game fish, including trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and other species. Ocean species include mackerel, bluefish, and striped bass. Freshwater fishing requires a State of Maine fishing license, as determined by state law. A license is not required to fish in the ocean.

Freshwater Fishing:

The freshwater fishing season in Maine is generally April through September. Check the State of Maine Open Water Fishing Regulations for exact dates.

During July and August, trout and salmon are found deep in the cooler waters of lakes and ponds on Mount Desert Island. Special fishing gear, such as lead core line or a down-rigger, will greatly increase chances of hooking a salmon or trout in the summer. In the cooler seasons, trout and salmon can be caught readily using common methods. Warm-water species can be caught throughout the season using common methods.

A list of lakes and ponds in or bordering the park (as well as motor limitations, types of fish found in specific lakes, and information on ice fishing and ocean fishing) is available as a web page and a PDF document (109kb).

Regulations:

Portions of lake and pond shorelines may be privately owned. Please respect private property.

Several ponds and lakes on the island are public drinking water supplies where swimming, wading, and pets are prohibited. Please follow posted regulations.

Eating freshwater fish containing mercury can be harmful if consumed in quantities. For safe-eating guidelines, consult the State of Maine Open Water Fishing Regulations.

Boaters: Clean your boat before you float. Watch out for hitchhiking plants on boats and equipment. A single invasive plant or plant fragment can infest an entire lake or stream. Dispose of plants on high, dry land away from lakes and ponds.

Fishing Licenses:

State of Maine fishing licenses are required for Maine residents 16 years or older and non-residents 12 years or older. Fees vary based on resident/non-resident status, age, and length of license. State of Maine freshwater fishing licenses may be purchased at:

Licenses may also be purchased online through the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife's on-line hunting & fishing licensing system.

More Information

The State of Maine Open Water Fishing Regulations handbook contains information about fishing regulations, including length, bag, and possession limits; safe eating guidelines; opportunities for children, and more. Receive a copy of this handbook when you purchase a fishing license or by calling (207) 287-8000.

For detailed information about fishing in Maine, visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website. Or, access fishing info for detailed information about cold-water fishing, warm-water fishing, ice fishing, and ocean fishing in and around Acadia National Park.