Acadia National Park - Fishing
Freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities abound in Acadia National Park and the surrounding area. 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 (see freshwater fishing information below). A license is not required to fish in the ocean.
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 that are open to fishing is located below.
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.
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.
In addition to the town offices listed here, State of Maine freshwater fishing licenses may be purchased at some local businesses as well.
Northeast Harbor Municipal Building276-5531 Bar Harbor Municipal Building
(residents only)
288-4098 Southwest Harbor Municipal Building
244-5404
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 at www.state.me.us/ifw/index.html .
landlocked salmon
brook trout
lake trout
brook trout
landlocked salmon
landlocked salmon
lake trout
brook trout
brown trout
sunfish
white perch
brook trout
brook trout
brook trout
brook trout
brook trout
brook trout
landlocked salmon
brown trout
chain pickerel
smallmouth bass
sunfish
white perch
yellow perch
alewives
brown trout
chain pickerel
smallmouth bass
sunfish
white perch
white sucker
yellow perch
smallmouth bass
smallmouth bass
chain pickerel
The ice fishing season generally lasts from January 1 to March 31. Check the State of Maine Ice Fishing Regulations handbook for exact dates and possession and size limits. Many of the larger ponds and lakes in the park are popular locations for ice fishing. Please be cautious on frozen bodies of water and ensure that ice thickness is sufficient to support your weight.
A license is not required to fish in the ocean. There are, however, safety concerns when ocean fishing. Be cautious of surf conditions. Sudden waves can wash the shore and sweep you out to sea. Watch your footing; seaweed and algae-covered rocks are extremely slippery. Two ocean fishing areas in the park include:
mackerel and bluefish (when running, periodically in mid-July, August, September)
striped bass (July, August, September)
mackerel (when running, periodically in mid-July, August, September)