Catch the Big One: 3 of the Best Fishing Lakes in America Are Here in Maine

With the days getting longer and temperatures rising, it certainly feels like it’s finally time to start enjoying more of the Maine outdoors, you know, without freezing your buns off.

This means folks will start loading up their canoes or gassing up their boats to hit the water. After all, those fish won’t catch themselves, folks.

Main is Fortunate to Have So Many Wonderful Fishing Holes

Thankfully, here in Maine, we are incredibly lucky to have such wonderful fishing spots, quite literally across the state. And some of those spots are even being nationally recognized.

The popular periodical and travel blog, Vacation Idea, has released an article about the best fishing lakes in the United States. Three of the regions making the list are Maine's own Belgrade Lakes, Sebago Lake, and Cobbosseecontee Lake.

Maine Has Three of the Best Fishing Lakes in the Nation

It shouldn't be a surprise that Maine has such solid representation. The state has always had a good reputation for fishing. And with so many pristine and clean lakes, there continue to be many active habitats that help keep the sport healthy.

Belgrade Lakes is a no-brainer for this list. The Central Maine lakes region is equal parts beautiful and entertaining. There's great hiking, golf, places to stay, and, obviously, fishing.

Here's a little of what Vacation Idea had to say about Belgrade Lakes:

Here you will find a string of 7 enticing fresh-water lakes of differing sizes. Each of the lakes offers anglers a fun day out with excellent changes of landing a good catch.

The article also mentions that the lakes are home to both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with many also housing trout and perch.

Next on the list is Southern Maine's largest body of freshwater, Sebago Lake. It's also known for being the deepest lake in the state, with some areas exceeding 200 feet in depth.

If you are out on Sebago Lake early, you’re bound to see plenty of fishing traffic. Plus, it’s a year-round industry on Sebago, with ice fishing being especially prevalent.

Here’s some of what Vacation Idea had to say about Sebago Lake:

this mighty body of water has over 105 miles of shoreline and is home to both warmwater and coldwater fisheries. Anglers love Sebago Lake for the variety of fish species and the abundant numbers which are carefully maintained by stocking.

According to Vacation Idea, Sebago Lake is known for its landlocked salmon, trout, bass, and perch (which I have caught in Sebago...woohoo). The variety is impressive, to say the least.

The best way to fish Sebago is to ask a local. I swear that lake has fishing holes that go back for generations.

The last Maine body of water selected for this list is Cobbosseecontee Lake. Just south of Belgrade Lakes, this long stretched lake has been a popular fishing spot for a long time. It's even been nationally recognized before, specifically for its massive largemouth bass population.

Here is a little of Vacation Idea's take on Cobbosseecontee Lake.

Widely known and respected in fishing circles for its largemouth bass populations, Cobbosseecontee Lake in Kennebec County, Maine is a dream destination for a fishing vacation. Conveniently located close to Augusta, the lake attracts many recreational anglers year-round.

The article suggests hiring a fishing guide for your first trip to this popular honey hole. It's also easy to rent equipment and a boat if need be. The lake is practically built for fishing, and the word is definitely out.

READ MORE: Uncover Maine’s Most Popular Mountains: 25 Hikes You Have to Try

These lake regions of Maine are a great representation of fishing in the Northeast. While all three of these are wonderful, there are plenty of other spots across the state and New England to enjoy. However, good luck trying to get a Mainer to tell you where that might be. Anglers keep secrets like CIA officers.

Tight lines.