Greenville, Maine, is a picturesque town situated on the shores of Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in the state of Maine. Known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, the Moosehead Lake Region is also a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts from all over the world.
Fly Fishing the Moosehead Lake Region
The Moosehead Lake Region is home to a diverse range of fish species, including landlocked salmon, brook trout, lake trout, and smallmouth bass. These fish are sought after by many anglers and provide different challenges for visiting fishermen. Anglers target these fish not only on Moosehead Lake, but the Kennebec River, Moose River, and Roach River.
Kennebec River Trout Fishing
The East and West Outlet of the Kennebec River from Moosehead Lake have great populations of landlocked salmon and brook trout. These fish can be found here year round but tend to be found in larger numbers in the Fall and Spring shoulder months. Further downstream on the Kennebec River, anglers can find brown and rainbow trout. A few miles downstream, anglers with small watercraft can find excellent smallmouth bass fishing on Indian Pond from spring through fall. We take a deep dive into the Kennebec in our article on Fly Fishing the Kennebec River.
Moose River Fly Fishing
Below Brassua Lake and Dam the Moose River flows over a short stretch of land into Moosehead Lake. Here anglers can find brook trout year round and less angling pressure than that of the east and west outlet of the Kennebec. Lake Trout and Atlantic salmon will also make their way up the river and to the dam in the early Spring. The Landlocked salmon also return in the fall months as the water temperatures cool. Small streamers are great this time of year. Caddis and Blue Wing Olives hatches happen consistently in Spring and Fall making for excellent action on the surface. Above Brassua Lake anglers can find these same hatches of caddis and BWOs on the upper Moose River system. Brook Trout are king in this section of river and will readily rise to dry fly offerings throughout the warmer months.
Roach River Fly Fishing
Closer to the small town of Kokadjo, the Roach River is home to Brook Trout and Atlantic Salmon. The Roach River fishes very similarly to the neighboring lower section of the Moose River. This 6-7 mile stretch of the lower Roach River from Roach Pond to Moosehead Lake has brook trout and seasonal landlocked salmon and Togue. The Roach Pond itself has populations of Lake Trout and Splake that can be targeted from shore just after ice off and again in the late fall. Hendrickson hatches are a bit more prevalent here than on the neighboring Moose River and are consistent in the late spring and early summer.
Greenville Maine Trout Fishing Seasons
To ensure a successful fishing trip, it's important to understand the seasonal patterns and habits of the fish in the area. Each season offers something different and the fish are always on the move.
In the spring, when the ice begins to thaw, brook trout can be found in the streams and rivers that flow into Moosehead Lake while the lake trout (or togue) move closer to the perimeter and become a target for shore bound anglers, making them easier to catch. Landlocked salmon are also abundant on the move this time of year moving from the lake into the rivers.
Summer sees the Lake Trout, and Landlocked salmon move to deeper areas in the lakes. Some salmon will stay in the rivers during the warmer months along with the brook trout until water temperatures get too high for their comfort.
The fall is the best time to fish for smallmouth bass, as they are more active during this season. Low water makes them a touch easier to find and they will be packing on the calories before winter. Anglers can also try their luck at fly fishing, which is a popular method in the Moosehead Lake Region. Trout and Landlocked salmon will once again be on the move in the Fall and is a great time to find some beautifully colored up fish.
Fishing in the Moosehead Lake Region is not only about the catch. It's also about experiencing the beauty of the area and the sense of peace and tranquility that comes with being out on the water. The region is known for its pristine wilderness areas, and fishing provides a great opportunity to explore them.
Visiting the Moosehead Lake Region
If you're planning a fishing trip to Greenville, Maine, be sure to do your research beforehand. Check the local fishing regulations, obtain the necessary permits, and familiarize yourself with the area. With the right preparation and knowledge, you're sure to have an unforgettable fishing experience in the Moosehead Lake Region. TJ's Maineiac Outfitters is a great source for all visitors. For more information about the fly fishing opportunities around, check out our articles on Fly Fishing the Allagash Waterway and Fly Fishing Maine.