YELLOW PERCH(Perca flavescens)
There are no shortage of waters that contain this ubiquitous species. Smaller minnows fished near bottom and micro jigs tipped with meat produce well.
Hidden Gem - China Lake near China, ME is a destination for many of the warm water species mentioned here. Expect to chase flags most of the day.
14
March, 2015
ICE FISHING MAINE
SPECIES - DESTINATIONS - TIPS
Maine is a great destination for so many things - beautiful beaches, rocky coastlines, expansive forests, as well as all of the bountiful items that make these places special. Growing up in Maine, I developed a deep appreciation for all of these natural treasures, but nothing in the state left as lasting impression as the fishing and hunting oppor-tunities that abound in this state. Every winter I spent time chasing a wide variety of species, setting baits for anything that would bite, large and small. Here's some ice fishing tips should you venture out in the Pine Tree state.
COLDWATER SPECIES
WARMWATER SPECIES
LAKE TROUT (Salvelinus namaycush)
Maine's largest freshwater fish species. This long-lived fish typically orients near bottom. Fish with live, or dead baits. Minnow species, as well as suckers up to 10" in length work. Larger baits will target larger fish, but may slow down the action. Moosehead Lake and Sebago Lake (during colder winters) are top choices for action chances at a true wall-hanger.
Hidden Gem - Thompson Lake in Poland, ME consistently produces aggressive 3-5 lbs Togue.
LANDLOCKED SALMON (Salmo salar)
This aggressive fighter readily takes live bait offerings, especially smelt, when fished just below the ice. Salmon are stocked across the state and fish up to 8 lbs are available. Most fish will run 2-3 lbs. Sebago Lake is again a top spot for action if it ices over, as are East Grand and West Grand lakes in the Downeast region.
BROOK TROUT (Salvelinus fontinalis)
"Squaretails" abound throughout the state. When fishing this desireable species place your tip-ups close to shore in waters less than 5 feet in depth. Smaller minnows, smelts, and even nightcrawlers serve as great baits. Fish your baits close to the bottom. Focus on lakes in the Moosehead Lake region and north to the Allagash for prime brook trout action.
BROWN TROUT (Salmo trutta)
Brown Trout are stocked in waters throughout the state that are shallower and warmer due to the fishes' tolerance for these conditions. Fish early and late in the day when disturbances are minimized relating to lake traffic. Shallow shoals adjacent to deeper water attract these fish. Hotspots include China Lake and Unity Pond in central Maine, as well as Mousam Lake and Square Pond in southern Maine.
WHITE PERCH(Morone americana)
Related to the Striped Bass that swims in the Atlantic, the white perch is a schooling fish that readily takes baits and jigs. Fish them as you would crappies. Look for deeper water flats and move around to find schools. Waters in the Sebago Lake region contain healthy populations.
SMALLMOUTH BASS (Micropterus dolomieu)
Smallmouths thrive in many of the lakes previously mentioned. Target this aggressive species in waters under 20 feet with live bait offerings. Keep your baits close to bottom.
Hidden Gem - Lovejoy Pond near Albion, ME has some of the biggest fish in the state with fish over 4 lbs taken each year.
BLACK CRAPPIE (Pomoxis nigromaculatus)
Crappies have established themselves over time and create a great fishery in southern waters. Shiners on tip-ups and jigs lure in the bulk of the catch. Look for schooling fish on the deep side of drop offs.
Hidden Gem - Unity Pond in Unity, ME produces crappies in excess of 2 lbs.
Mount Katahdin, Maine's Largest Peak, as seen from Schoodic Lake