Nearly 900 lakes and streams remain open to fishing this fall.
Cooler weather, colorful foliage, and fewer mosquitoes make October a wicked good time to get out on the water. Whether you're hoping to land a trophy brown trout, explore a remote brook trout pond, or squeeze in one more fishing trip during a hunting getaway, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy Maine's outdoors.
Many waters close to fishing on October 1, and special regulations apply during fall spawning seasons. But hundreds of lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds remain open. Here are a few places to cast a line this month:
- Belgrade Lakes Region: Try for a catch-of-a-lifetime brown trout, along with opportunities for bass and rainbow trout.
- Grand Lake Stream Area: Explore waters open through October for landlocked salmon and trout.
- Rangeley Lakes Region: Take a hike to remote fishing spots and enjoy exceptional fall foliage along the way.
- Moosehead Lake Region: Find trout ponds open into November and river fishing opportunities. A little cast and blast adventure, anyone?
- Penobscot Region: Enjoy brook trout fishing with spectacular views of Mount Katahdin.
- Northern Maine: Round out a hunting getaway with late-season stocked fisheries.
Before you head out, check the Special Fishing Laws. The Fall Fishing column indicates whether a water is open, but some waters may be open only in specific sections or during limited time frames. Always read the regulations carefully to make sure your chosen water is open to fishing.