Trout Fishing In Maine

Guide to fishing for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout in local lakes and streams.

Rainbow Trout
Brook Trout
Brown Trout
Lake Trout
Trout Lakes In The State
Available Trout Species
Top Trout Lures & Flies

Maine offers fantastic trout fishing opportunities with a variety of trout species thriving in its lakes and rivers. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state. The three main species of trout that attract anglers are brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout.

Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous Maine lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. Some of the best rainbow trout fishing locations in Maine are the East Outlet of the Kennebec River and Baxter State Park's waters. More...

Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore Maine's more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. Brook trout fishing often involves wading through remote streams and enjoying the serene wilderness of Maine's backcountry. More...

Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select Maine lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. Popular brown trout fishing spots in Maine include the Kennebec River and the West Branch of the Penobscot River. More...

Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

Maine holds several state records for trout catches, and anglers continue to chase these elusive titles. To preserve the health of trout populations and ensure the sustainability of this cherished fishery, catch-and-release practices are encouraged in many areas. Maine's trout fishing season typically runs from April to September, and the state's diverse and scenic landscapes make it a top destination for trout anglers seeking a memorable and rewarding fishing experience.

Trout Fishing Waters

With all the clear cold water in Maine, it's no wonder that you can find trout in most waters. Virtually all streams and rivers contain trout. Major lakes with a healthy trout population include Allagash Lake, Androscoggin Lake, Aziscohos Lake, Baskahegan Lake, Big Lake, Chamberlain Lake, China Lake, Chesuncook Lake, Cobbosseecontee Lake, Damariscotta Lake, Eagle Lake, East Grand Lake, Flagstaff Lake, Graham Lake, Grand Lake Matagamon, Great Pond, Lobster Lake, Long Lake, Messalonskee Lake, Millinocket Lake, Moosehead Lake, Mooselookmeguntic Lake, Munsungan Lake, Pemadumcook Lakes, Portage Lake, Rangeley Lake, Richardson Lakes, Sebago Lake, Sebec Lake, Schoodic Lake, Square Lake, St Froid Lake, Thompson Lake, Webb Lake and West Grand Lake. Ice fishing for trout is an option ant numerous lakes when winter sets in on Maine.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Maine State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Quarry Pond.

The state record blueback trout was taken out of Pushineer Pond.

The state record brook trout was taken out of Mousam Lake.

The state record brown trout came from Square Pond.

The state record lake trout was caught in Richardson Lake.

Visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website for information on trout stocking in Maine.

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.