Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine, Spring 1998 by Maine State Library

Maine State Library

Maine State Documents Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine

Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

3-1-1998

Maine Fish and Game Magazine, Spring 1998 Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Follow this and additional works at: http://digitalmaine.com/ifw_magazine Recommended Citation Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, "Maine Fish and Game Magazine, Spring 1998" (1998). Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine. Book 93. http://digitalmaine.com/ifw_magazine/93

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MAI

FISM AND WILDlllfrE SPRING 1998

MAINE STATE LIBRARY LIBRARY J:E c:~LY

FISHING EXCLUSIVE An up-to-date profile on Maine's Incomparable sport fishery. In this comprehensive report, seven regional fishery blologlsts walk you through Maine's best angling waters.

EDITORIAL by Lee E. Perry, Commissioner Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Would we fish if there weren't any fish? A simple question demands a simple answer, right? Perhaps not. In this age of technology, cyberspace and changing social values, could there emerge a fishing industry based not on fish but simulators that meet each and every person's need for the ultimate fishing experience every time? Think of the benefits-no need to travel, instant gratification of the fishing urge, and no need for a bureaucracy to manage fish and anglers. But alas, no world is perfect, and undoubtedly a whole new set of problems would emerge, requiring programmers to develop better, faster fish and cyber police to apprehend hackers who stole the latest customized version of quality fishing from an ardent video angler, or introduced a virus into a popular fisheries software program. Back to reality. Fishing and fisheries management are not simple. As managers, we are constrained by the biological characteristics of fish and their habitats, as well as the fiscal, social and political environments in which we work. The needs of fish and people are varied. At a given point in time and place, neither all fish nor all people can meet their needs on the same body of water. It takes time, even under good environmental conditions, for a fish population to respond to new management. As a department, we are responsible for assessing both the needs of the fish and the needs of the people to whom fish and fishing are important. Since arriving in November, I have met with many people representing individual, conservation and commercial interests. Each has expressed his or her ideas, offered constructive criticism, and expressed support for maintaining and improving our fisheries and angling opportunities. I have also heard reports from my staff regarding the status of our fisheries programs, as well as several individual fisheries. I am optimistic that together-through partnership, cooperation, and time-we have been creating, and will continue to create, a better fishery for Maine. We are on the road to recovery. Many of the restrictive regulations placed on wild fisheries are already producing positive results. Special stocking programs are resulting in more fishing opportunities on waters where native fish restoration is not possible. Our public access program is progressing. And last but not least-and perhaps the most exciting program-Get Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs, a program for young anglers, is receiving exceptional positive support. This edition is dedicated to fishing and fisheries management. I hope that you find the stories enjoyable, enlightening, and stimulating. Forget cyberspace! It's Spring! Get a license! Grab a rod! Find a kid! Go fishing!

INE

S98

WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

':/ING 1998

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by John Boland

by Dennis McNeish

FISH AND WILDLIFE

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A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

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by Tim Obrey

by Scott Roy

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e Holding casts to the Dead River, of 1992. Photo Â© Dennis Welsh

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EDITORIAL

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Would we fish if there werer mands a simple answer, rigli ogy, cyberspace and changin fishing industry based not 01 and every person's need for time? Think of the benefitshon of the fishing urge, and fish and anglers. But alas, no whole new set of problems vV to develop better, faster fish who stole the latest customi2 ardent video angler, or intro, software program. Back to reality. Fishing and f As managers, we are constra fish and their habitats, as we environments in which we "' and place, neither all fish nrn time, even under good envir ment. As a department, we a the people to whom fish and

FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

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FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

Since arriving in November, and commercial interests. Ea expressed support for maint; also heard reports from my ~ individual fisheries. I am op1 have been creating, and will We are on the road to recove already producing positive r tunities on waters where nat gressing. And last but not le, Not on Drugs, a program for This edition is dedicated to f able, enlightening, and stimt Forget cyberspace! It's Sprin:

MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE Governor Angus S. King, Jr.

Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Lee Perry, Commissioner Frederick B. Hurley, Jr., Deputy Commissioner Vacant at presstime, Di rector, Bureau of Resource Management Richard Record, Director, Bureau of Administrative Services Vacant at presstime. Director, Bureau of Warden Service

Advisory Council Stanley D. Milton, Andover Chairman Charles F. Beck, Presque Isle Vice Chairman Millard A. Wardwell, Penobscot F. Dale Speed, Princeton Richard A. Neal, £. Lebanon Ellen N. Peters, New Gloucester Russell E. Dyer,., Bowdoinham Lila Ware . .:,kowhegan Harold Brown, Bangor A. David Trahan , Waldoboro

Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine V. Paul Reynolds, Editor Thomas L. Carbone, Photo Editor V. Paul Reynolds, Advertising All photographs in this issue were made by the Public Information & Education Division unless otherwise indicated. MAINE FISH AND WIWUFE (ISSN 0360-005X) is published quarterly by the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife , 284 State Street, Station 41. Augusta, Maine 04330, under Appropriation 01009A-0529. Subscription rate: $18.00 per year. No stamps, please. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Augusta, Maine and at additional mailing offices. © Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 1998. Permission to reprint text material Is granted, provided proper credit is given to the author and to MAINE FISH AND WIIDUFE. Clearance must be obtained from artists, photographers, and non-staff authors to reproduce credited work. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Send both old and new addresses to Circulation Section. MAINE FISH AND WIWUFE Magazine, 284 State St., 41 State Hse. Sta., Augusta ME 04333. Please allow six weeks for changes to take effect. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Circulation Section, MAINE FISH AND WIWUFE, 284 State St., 41 State Hse. Sta., Augusta, Maine 04333. QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SUBSCRIPTION? Just call toll-free 1-800--288-838 7 The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife receives federal funds from the U.S. Department of the Interior. Accordingly, all department programs and actMtles must be operated free from discrimination with regard to race. color, national origin, age, or handicap. Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against should write to The Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C . 20240.

SPECIAL FISHING EDITION-SPRING 1998 VOL. 40, NO. 1 ----------

Maine's Fisheries Regions In-depth looks at Maine 's fisheries-by region, and written by those who know_ These reports convey a wealth of information about Maine 's species, waters, and programs. Some are organized by species, some by water-but all are valuable reading for anyone interested in Maine 's incomparable fish resources and opportunities!

Region A: Sebago

by John Boland

Region B: Belgrade

by Dennis McNeish

Region C: Downeast

by Ron Brokaw

Region D: Rangeley

by Forrest Bonney

Region E: Moosehead

by Paul Johnson

Region F: Penobscot

by Michael Smith

Region G: Fish River Chain

by Dave Basley

Features Maine Sport Fishing: Good, and Getting Better!

Bass Management In Maine

by Dennis McNeish

Why Splake?

by Tim Obrey

Brook Trout: A New Approach

by Scott Roy

The Front Cover: Fishing guide Bonnie Holding casts to the Dead River, Stratton, Maine, 5:30 a.m., summer of 1992. Photo © Dennis Welsh

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For more information on fisheries and fishing: Region A-207-657-3259 Region B - 207-547-5314 Region C- 207-255-3772 Region D- 207-778-3322 Region E- 207-695-3756

Region G -207-435-3231

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MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT Bureau of Resource Management Administrative Regions

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MAINE SPORT FISHING:

GOOD, AND G ETTI NG B E :r::r:

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By Peter Bourque, Director Fisheries Division What's the overall condition of Maine's inland fisheries? Are catch rates as high as they were two decades ago? What about the average size of Maine's sportfishes? Well , if you asked thirty anglers you 'd get 30 different opinions. However, if an angler has not kept a good written account of his fishing trips over a long period of time, research shows that only the large fish tend to be remembered. So it's important to look at trends over the long haul before evaluating the state of Maine sport fishing . Our state has over 5,000 ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers and streams. Fishery management responsibilities are entrusted to a small number of fishery biologists who have a deep concern for the resource and those who use that resource. The large number of waters help to provide a diversity of fishing opportunity, but unfortunately all waters have varying capacities to produce fish. Every lake or pond has its unique ecosystem with a specific carrying capacity. In other words , just like a garden produces a certain number of pounds of potatoes per acre, so it is with fish production in Maine ponds. Each can produce a finite http://www.stale.me. us/ifw/homepage.html

Springvale resident Tom Jagger, former member of the Fish and Wildlife Advisory Council. landed this 3 112-pound brookie in May 1995 at Pierce Pond. A Black Ghost Maribou did the trick. number of pounds of fish per acre, so if a pond is dependent on stocking , it still can grow only a certain number of fish . Sometimes, when it comes to fish, more is not always better. Has the quality of fishing changed in Maine? For well over 100 years Maine sportsmen have harvested salmon and trout as the species group of choice.

Historical records from old sporting camps and angling groups show large numbers of large fish being harvested from many of our more popular waters . Unfortunately, creel records were not kept until Maine's fish management program began in the early 1950s. By that time, many of the larger salmon and trout (memorable fish) had been harvested, Spring 1998

and as the postwar fishing pressure increased , were never replaced . For some lakes, the "cream of the crop" was gone, and until just a few years ago, no one was anxious to implement the necessary restrictive regulations to try and replace some of these larger, older fish. It is true that the larger, older fish were virtually gone, but in many cases the catch rates per angler changed little when looking at the statewide picture. In other words , it is clear that we can maintain or even increase your chances to catch (play) a fish but, because of the low productivity of Maine waters many of those fish will need to be carefully released (reduced harvest rate) in order to keep future catch rates high . More people and more leisure time translates into more days of fishing , and remember that garden (pond) story, each water can grow a limited number of pounds of fish. For these reasons , four years ago the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife implemented about 100 special , highly restrictive regulations , which generally resulted in very low bag limits, higher length limits and restrictions on terminal tackle (flies & lures) to reduce mortality from hooking since many more fish would need to be released al ive. This was called the Quality Fishing Initiative. Following this initiative , special restrictive limits (bag and length) were implemented on some 400 wild brook trout ponds in order to conserve these important native populations . With increasing angling pressure on bass, which is one of Maine's most popular game fish , the Department biologists recom -

Maine Fish and Wi ldlife

mended greater protection for this valuable game fish. Through research conducted in Ontario, we have learned much about the importance of the older, larger smallmouth bass in these northern climes. In order to protect these fish , not only for the excitement they provide anglers but for their spawning potential , Maine also implemented very restrictive bass regulations , Will these changes work as planned? Biologists have already begun to closely monitor the new regulations on many of these waters. They , as well as many anglers, are already reporting changes for the better. Catch rates are increasing and in many instances there are more larger fish in the populations. Although not necessarily attributable to the new trout regulations, some new records have been set recently on a number of coldwater game fish. This is not to minimize the fact that with fisheries management there are miscalculations, problems and invariably a downside. We will make mistakes, and in a couple of instances, biologists have already liberalized some of the new, more restrictive trout regulations reverting back to the general law (6 inch length limit with a 5 trout bag limit.) In the case of bass, tournament anglers and guides are reporting larger fish. Maine has a wonderful fisheries resource and it is getting better. Despite all of our special regulations , most of Maine's waters can be fished under the general fish ing rules, especially the brooks and streams. We want to continue to provide a diversity of fish ing opportunity across th is state. Our new regulations , and improved hatchery fish , our hard work and cooperation from all anglers will

contribute to the improvement of Maine 's sport fisheries for the foreseeable future. For those who still want a good feed , who feel that Maine's reduced bag limits on our coldwater gamefish is unfair to those who want to eat fish , remember that most of Maine's warmwater species have a greater spawning potential and will continue to provide that opportunity for a fish fry . You 'll notP that most of our warmwater species have no bag or length limits. But, what may be the downside of some of our warmwater species? Unfortu nately, many illegal introductions of perches, bass and other highly competitive species in coldwater habitats will preclude the possibility of ever restoring some of our formerly excellent salmon and trout fisheries to their historical past. Those waters will still grow a finite amount of fish and in many instances, what once occurred as pounds of salmon and trout have now been converted to perch or other competitive species with a much higher reproductive capacity. There are many other issues regarding Maine's sport fishery, not the least of which is the rearing and stocking of fish and the general management of our fishery. Among anglers, biologists and policy makers al ike , there needs to be considerable thought and debate about our fish culture program , introduction of new strains of trout, exotic fish , habitat changes and the need for the kind of regulations that will safeguard Maine's valuable sport fishery while at the same time providing diverse and high -quality angling opportunities for all to enjoy. â&#x20AC;˘ h I tp://www .s tate. me. us/i fw/ h o m epage.h tm I

by John Boland

Regional Fisheries Biologist Perhaps the most impressive attribute to fishing in the Sebago Region (See map, Region A) is the wide diversity of opportunities available to anglers. Within a 90 minute drive of Portland anglers can fly fish for brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout, troll for salmon and lake trout or cast for bass. In addition, warmwater species such as pickerel, perch and black crappie abound in many of the area waters. In recent years Maine Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists have developed innovative stocking programs and more progressive regulation changes to provide higher quality angling opportunities on a year round basis. Most trout and salmon fisheries including those on the larger streams and lakes are maintained through annual stocking programs, while most of the smaller brooks are sustained by wild populations. Anglers can obtain a copy of the stocking list from this department, or consult with the biologists at the regional headquarters. h ttp: // www.state .me. us / i fw / h omepage. html

Trolling for landlocked salmon and lake trout is a popular pasttime at Sebago Lake. An old lake record for lake trout was broken two years ago when veteran togue (lake trout) angler Paul Day landed a 26-pound laker on a flatfish trolled deep. With the exception of the northwest corner, much of this southernmost region in the state is ice free by mid April, which affords anglers an opportunity for some early season fishing. May and June are possibly the best months to fish for trout salmon or bass, since water temperatures are optimal and the most prolific insect hatches

are taking place. Well informed and prepared anglers can also expect excellent fishing throughout the summer months. The fall is a favorite time to fish for several reasons. Salmonids are in their spawning colors and sometimes are concentrated in certain streams or areas of the lake. The foliage is spectacular and generally the Spr111g 1998

fall weather is favorable. Beginning in 1998 anglers in several southern Maine counties will see the general law fishing season extended until the end of November. This progressive regulation change will provide anglers with limitless fall fishing opportunities in this portion of the state. The following information will hopefully provide interested anglers with a basic understanding of some of the opportunities that exist in the Sebago Region.

Brown Trout Where to Fish

Hancock Pond, Denmark Browns 14-22", alewives Sabbathday Lake, New GloucesterBrowns 14-20", smelts Range Ponds, Poland Browns 14-22", alewives Little Ossipee Lake, Waterboro Browns 14-20", smelts

Rivers/streams Little Androscoggin R. , Minot Pleasant River, Windham Collyer Brook, Gray L. Ossipee River, Newfield

Brook Trout

Brown Trout

April, May and early June are the most productive months of the year for the brook trout angler. Fly fishermen should be equipped with an assortment of dries and nymphs to take advantage of numerous insect hatches. Spin fishermen will do well with small trout lures, and worms are always a sure bet for fishing the many small brooks and streams in the area.

The Sebago Region affords some of the best brown trout angling in the state. Many waters are noted for producing large fish. An angler fishing Square Pond in Acton caught a whopping 23 lb. 8 oz. state record brown during the winter of 1996. Browns in the 3-6 pound range are common and some lakes in the area produce fish up

Brook Trout Where to Fish

Comments

Lakes and Ponds Jaybird Pond, Porter Chapman Pond, Porter Broken Bridge Pond , Albany Warren Pond, Berwick Lily Pond, New Gloucester Cushman Pond, Buckfield Spicer Pond , Newfield

Trout 10-15" Trout up to 18" Trout 10-15 " "Remote" trout pond Trout commonly 10-14" Numerous trout 8-12 " Native brook trout fishery

Brooks and Streams Pleasant River, Windham Wild River, Gilead Little Ossipee River, Newfield Branch Brook, Wells Presumpscot River, Windham Shephard's River, Brownfield Cold River, Stow

Maine Fis/, a11d Wi ldlife

Comments

Lakes and Ponds

Brook trou Vbrown trout Brook trout/rainbow trout Brook trouVrainbow trout Native brook trout Year round fishing , trout to 18 " Native brook trout Native brook trout

Browns 12-18" Brown trouVbrook trout Brown trouVbrook trout Brown trouVbrook trout

to 10 pounds or larger each year. Trolling live bait, flies or spoons is the most productive method when fishing the lakes and ponds. May and June are excellent months to fish for browns, but anglers can be very successful during the summer months if they have the gear required to troll in the cooler portions of the lake, which usually occur at depths of 15 to 25 feet. Brook and stream anglers have their best luck using flies or small spoons.

Sea Run Brown Trout A few opportunities exist to catch sea run brown trout in this area. These fish exhibit excellent growth and average 1-3 pounds. The best fishing occurs in late fall to early winter (November to January). Flies and lures imitating shrimp or small minnows work best.

Landlocked Salmon The southernmost region of the state is blessed with some very high quality salmon waters. Sebago lake is certainly the best known, but other waters lie in the shadows of that great lake and produce some exciting angling opportunities. May and June are the most productive http: // www.state.me.us/ ifw/homepage .html

Sea Run Brown Trout Where to Fish

Comments

Ogunquit River, Ogunquit

14-16" browns

mon ths to fish, and trolling live smelts or streamer flies is the preferred fishing method. Streamers such as the Gray Ghost, Barnes Special or Joe's Smelt are local favorites and are most efficient if trolled at a fairly high rate of speed. Live bait (preferably smelts) should be trolled much more slowly and are very productive. Again anglers can enjoy quality angling during the mid summer months with the proper gear.

Lake Trout (togue) These fish can be taken in early spring with conventional gear such as fly rods or light trolling tackle, but after mid May

Lake Trout (Togue) Where to fish

Comments

Auburn Lake, Auburn Thompson Lake , Poland Great East Lake, Acton Sebago Lake, Windham

Lakers 4-10 pounds Native lakers 2-4 pounds Native lakers 3-6 pounds Trophy lake trout

Landlocked Salmon Where to Fish

Comments

Lakes and Ponds Sebago Lake , Windham Thompson Lake, Poland Kezar Lake , Lovell Auburn Lake, Auburn

World record landlocked (1908) Salmon to 5 pounds Salmon 2-4 pounds Salmon 2-4 pounds .

Rivers and Streams Crooked River

anglers require equipment that enables them to lower their bait down to the feeding lakers. At Sebago Lake for instance anglers troll at 60 - 150 feet during the summer months and enjoy exceptional fishing. Trolling sewed-on bait, spoons or flatfish at a very slow speed is the preferred fishing method. In 1996, Sebago pro-

Fall angling for wild landlocks

duced a 27 pound laker as well as numerous fish over 15 pounds. Many anglers believe this lake will soon produce a new state record for the species. Several additional opportunities for quality lake trout fishing exist in this area of the state.

Splake Splake are a fairly recent introduction into Sebago region waters and are now stocked into approximately 10 waters. These fish can be caught using similar tactics to those used for brook trout, but can also be caught using trolling gear in deeper water. Most of the area's lakes produce fish in the 12-16 inch range with an occasional fish weighing in at five pounds or larger. A few fish in the 8 pound range have been taken.

Angler Ted Reny proudly displays a respectable lake trout caught last spring at Sebago lake. http ://www .s ta te . me . us / i fw/homepage.html

Spr111g 1998

Splake Where to fish Trickey Pond, Naples Shagg Pond , Woodstock Stanley Pond , Porter Bryant Pond , Woodstock

Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass Nearly all waters in this part of the state have fishable populations of both smallmouth and largemouth bass. Spring and early summer provide the best bass fishing opportu nity, but special regulations are in effect during this time period to protect spawning fish. The best fishing for smallmouths occurs along rocky shorelines and bars where ample structure is located. Anglers must fish deeper along these areas during the summer months since smallmouths prefer cooler water. Largemouths prefer shallow weedy coves with lots of cover such as weed beds or submerged trees.

White and Yellow Perch Fishing for these species is becoming increasingly popular due to their prolific numbers and fine eating quality. Fishing during the spawning runs in late April or early May can be very exciting; however, anglers can enjoy excellent fishing all season long. During the summer months perch are most easily caught using worms or live bait and the best opportunities occur at daybreak or dusk.

Chain Pickerel These toothy predators inhabit the shallow weedy covers and are very aggressive feeders. They are very abunda nt throughout

White Perch & Yellow Perch Where to fish Little Sebago, Windham Pa~herPond, Raymond Lake Arrowhead , Limerick Thomas Pond, Casco Auburn Lake, Auburn

Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass Where to fish

Comments

Largemouth bass Little Sebago Lake, Windham Moose Pond , Bridgton Lake Arrowhead (Little OssipeeFlowage) , Limerick Panther Pond , Raymond Kezar Lake, Lovell

State Record (11 lb 1O oz) Trophy bass management regs in effect Spectacular scenery

Smallmouth bass Hancock Pond, Denmark Auburn Lake, Auburn Peabody Pond, Denmark Thompson Lake, Oxford Saco River, Hiram downstream Androscoggin River, Lewiston downstream

Mn111e Fish n11d Wildlife

Excellent fishing/canoeing Motorboats only

the region. Shiny lures, flies or live bait fished in the shallows are most effective.

Chain Pickerel Where to fish Nearly all waters in the region have fishable populations of chain pickerel.

Black Crappie Blc1ck crappies are not native to Maine, but were introduced into the upper Presumpscot River basin in the early 1900s. They have since become well established in more than 20 waters within the region. While not pursued by many native anglers, crappies provide a lot of action and offer great table fare. While crappies average 7 to 12 inches long, they can reach a size upwards of 15 inches. Crappies are more numerous, but generally of smaller size, where there is an over abundance of shallow weedy habitat. Fishing is best early and late in the day, during periods of diminished light. Small live minnows or jigs (less than 1/8 oz.) work best, particularly when fished near structure. Crappies can be light biters, so small diameter line (2 to 6 pound test) in combination with active jigging techniques work best. â&#x20AC;˘

Black Crappie Where to fish Mousam Lake, Acton Balch & Stump ponds, Newfield Little Ossipee flowage , Waterboro Estes Lake, Sanford Rock Haven Lake, Newfield Bonny Eagle Flowage, Standish Saco River http: // www. s ta te . me. u s/ i fw / h omepage . h tm I

by Dennis McNeish

Regional Fisheries Biologist All too frequently, anglers ignore the Augusta area when they are considering a destination for a fishing trip. They do so at their peril! The Belgrade Region (See map, Region B), in which our state capitol is located, contains some of the finest fishing in the state. This is particularly true in the case of warm water fish species such as smallmouth and largemouth bass and that popular newcomer, the orthern pike. Fishery Region B is bounded on the West by the Androscoggin River and on the East by the Penobscot River. The Region's "southern" boundary is, of course, the Atlantic Ocean; its northern boundary approximates a line drawn from Livermore Falls through Skowhegan, Harmony and Dexter. Let's talk fish.

Black bass Maine provides some of the finest smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing on the east coast and the Belgrade Region is http: // www .sta te . me . us / ifw / h omepage .h tml

Wildlife artist Mark Susinno captured the image that is every bass angler's dream. Called "Airborne Largemouth " and reprinted courtesy of Wild Wings, Sussino 's art is an exciting reminder of the bass action accessible to all among Maine 's magnificent sport fishery. the best of the best! Just over 97,000 acres of lake habitat in this Region contain either smallmouths or largemouths or, as is often the case, both species. Bass fisheries in Fishery Region B range in size from 11 acre Lilly Pond to 8,239 acre Great Pond. Don't forget about rivers and streams. All of the Region's major rivers and many of its smaller rivers have bass fisheries. So, within an hour's drive of Augusta you can launch your bass boat on a concrete pad on a large lake or river, drop your car top boat or canoe into a mediumsize pond or river, or wade any one of our small rivers. Bass fishing experiences run from

heavily developed and very popular lakes such as Cobbosseecontee Lake in Winthrop and China Lake in Vassalboro to tiny, relatively undeveloped ponds like Moose Pond in Mt. Vernon and Jimmie Pond in Manchester. Fishing quality varies a great deal, too. Want a chance to catch a real "hawg"? Try Annabessacook Lake in Winthrop or Webber Pond in Vassalboro. If fast action is your forte, give Branch Pond in Palermo or Lilly Pond in Sidney a try. Neither of the latter two waters produce many large bass but they sure can provide some fast fishing for small fish! Like fishing for bass in moving Spring 1998

Although an exotic fish for Maine that was introduced illegally, the Northern pike has become a popular sport fish in the Belgrade Lakes, especially for ice anglers. water? If you pass up fishing the Androscoggin River, the Region's western border, you are missing a sure bet. In the Belgrade Region the shoreline of this river is largely undeveloped and the quality of the bass fishery is virtually unsurpassed. For an opportunity to have some truly remarkable bass fishing, access the Androscoggin at the boat launching facility off the Center Bridge Road in Turner. If you like to fish smaller rivers and enjoy fly fishing or spin fishing with light tackle, try the Nezinscot River in Turner. Although the N ezinscot is easily fished by wading, a small canoe can be helpful in fishing some of the river's larger pools. Station yourself in one of the Nezinscot's pools at the edge of dark, cast out a large dry fly, a

Maine Fish and Wildlife

small popper, or a small surface plug. Then hang on, because even experienced anglers are astonished by the commotion a 12-16 inch smallmouth can make on light tackle!

N orthern Pike The presence of Northern pike in Maine waters was first confirmed by Department biologists in the early 1980s. Based on size, growth rate, and apparent age we believe the species was introduced illegally into the state sometime in the 1970s. Biologists have confirmed fishable populations of pike in 6 waters: North Pond, Great Pond, Long Pond, Ingham Pond, and Messalonskee Lake, all in the Belgrade Lakes drainage, and Sabattus Pond in the Androscoggin River drainage. All of these waters can be

reached via public boat launching facilities. Long Pond is the only one of the 6 waters that is closed to winter fishing. The species has rapidly developed a significant following among the angling public. In fact, winter fishing for pike is, perhaps, the most common topic of conversation among central Maine anglers. Pike are voracious feeders that grow large and provide the best opportunity for capturing a large fish in the lakes and ponds of the Belgrade Region. As fisheries biologists we do not begrudge you the fishing that this species has provided, but we do urge you to resist the temptation to transfer pike to other waters!

Other warmwater game fish species Fisheries for most of the state's warmwater game fish species are found in Region B. In http: // www.state.me. us / ifw / homepage. htm I

fact, warmwater fish populations are found in virtually every pond in the Region. The most common of these game fish are white perch and yellow perch. Of the two, white perch are the most popular with Maine anglers. This species is caught summer and winter on just about every conceivable type of tackle. The popularity of white perch is due to its abundance, its willingness to bite, and its high quality as a food fish. Chain pickerel are probably the next most popular warmwater game fish in the Region. Like white perch, pickerel can be caught summer or winter and they are not difficult for the average angler to fool. Although generally between 12 and 16 inches long, pickerel can grow quite large and specimens in the 20-24 inch range are not unheard of. Despite a sweet and delicate taste, the species is quite bony and for that reason is not as highly regarded on the plate as are white perch. Some other warm water species that are caught by anglers include yellow perch, black crappie and brown bullheads. Where can you find them? Well, just about anywhere but you might try Great Pond, China Lake, or Salmon Pond for white perch. If you want to catch pickerel, Androscoggin Lake and Annabessacook Lake are worth a shot.

Brown Trout Brown trout are the staple of the salmonid fishery in Region B. Virtually all the Region's brown trout fisheries are maintained by annual stocking programs. A total of 125,199 brown trout were stocked in 64 waters in the Region in 1997. Two of the more http ://www .s ta te. me. us / ifw /h om ep age. h tm I

popular brown trout waters in the .Region are China Lake in China and Salmon Pond in Belgrade. Damariscotta Lake in Damariscotta, Great Pond in Belgrade, and Great Moose Pond in Hartland are newcomers to brown trout management that hold considerable promise as brown trout fisheries. All of the waters I have named are served by public boat launches and all are open to fishing, summer and winter. The premiere brown trout water in the Region and, perhaps, in the state is the Kennebec River. The 40 mile reach of the Kennebec from Skowhegan to Augusta has gained a reputation as one of the best brown trout rivers on the East coast. Perhaps the best known fishery on the river is located just downstream of the Shawmut Dam in Benton. Much of the fishing in this stretch of the river is by wading but canoes and boats are used, as well. You can launch a boat at the public landing in the town of Fairfield. Canoes can be launched at the landing and also off the River Road just North of Goodwin Corner. Those who wade this reach access the river off the River Road on the east shore or in the village of Shawmut on the west shore. Fishing is best in the late evening and after dark. Browns in excess of 20 inches long are taken yearly. The river reach in Waterville near the juncture of the Kennebec and the Sebasticook is another section of the Kennebec that provides a good brown trout fishery. This section is gaining in popularity. There seems to be more fishing from boats and canoes in this reach than there is below Shawmut

Dam. Watercraft and canoes can be launched at the public landing on the west shore of the river in Waterville. This landing is located off Water Street, just above the "new bridge". Most of the shore fishing is done from the east bank of the river in Ft. Halifax Park in the town of Winslow. Several other rivers in central Maine provide brown trout fishing but perhaps one of the most intriguing is the reach of the Sheepscot River from the dam on Sheepscot Lake in Palermo to the Route 105 bridge in Whitefield. This section is unusual because it is being managed on the basis of natural reproduction. The fishery is regulated by catch-and-release rules. Fishing has been quite good in this reach in the two years of the program but it is far too early to measure its success. Some people consider brown trout to be the most difficult salmonid for the average angler to capture. That may be so, but if fishing for this species is slow, a trip to most any brown trout water does hold the promise of the occasional trophy catch. This seems to be true for virtually all brown trout waters, even including those that have a reputation for producing small fish. Actually, the browns' notoriety for "smarts" coupled with its potential for long life and large size are probably what holds the interest of dedicated brown trout anglers.

Brook Trout Anglers who seek wild brook trout in lakes and ponds are pretty much out of luck in Fishery Region B. Nevertheless, there are many opportunities to catch brookies in this part of the Spring 1998

state. The Department stocked 53,621 brookies in 44 of the Region's lakes and ponds in 1997. Most of the program consists of spring yearlings. Although many of these fish are taken in the spring fishery, in many cases escapement is sufficient to provide decent fall and winter fishing and even some larger holdover fish the following summer. Region B brook trout waters with significant escapement include Adams Pond in Boothbay, Bowler Pond in Palermo, Little Pond in Damariscotta, Spectacle Pond in Vassalboro, Swan Lake in Swanville, and Tyler Pond in Manchester to name a few. Decent brookies, 12 to 16 inches, are possible in any one of these waters and a few 3-pound+ fish are taken from some of them every year. In fact, one of our ponds gives up a couple trophy brookies every year. Now, I'm not going to tell you exactly where this pond is located. Suffice to say that it is within an hours drive of the city of Augusta! Trout fishing in Region B's brooks and streams is not without its pleasures, either, and virtually all of these fisheries are based on wild populations. Maine anglers zealously guard the location of their favorite brook trout "hole" and so I hesitate to be very specific. However, I have listed the names of a few drainages whose tributaries and/ or mainstems have fishable populations of brook trout: Martin Stream, Turner, etc.; Cathance Stream, Bowdoin, etc.; Eastern River, Pittston, etc.; Fifteen Mile Stream, Albion, etc.; West Branch of the Sebasticook River

Marne Fish and Wtld life

(north of Great Moose Pond), Dexter, etc.; Bartlett Stream, Montville, etc.; Passagassawaukeag River, Belfast, etc.; and Marsh Stream, Frankfort, etc.

Landlocked Salmon I bet you haven't seen the words, trophy landlocks and Kennebec County in the same sentence very often and in truth there are not a lot of salmon fishing opportunities in this neck of the woods. But hold on for a moment, if you have your fishing gear together and are preparing to strike out on a salmon fishing expedition to the Rangeley lakes area or, perhaps, East Grand Lake, you should consider a little side trip. Take Route 27 out of Augusta at exit 31 on the Maine Turnpike. Head north for about 20 minutes to Long Pond in the town of Belgrade. This 2,700 acre lake provides some of the best salmon fishing in central and southern Maine, if not in the entire state. Now this is not a surprise to area anglers so you are going to have some company. If you can tolerate the competition and don't mind relatively slow average catch rates, Long Pond provides as good an opportunity as there is for catching a trophy landlocked salmon. Salmon exceeding 5 and 6 pounds, and even 7 pounds, have been taken out of Long Pond in recent years. All of the various types of traditional salmon fishing techniques are employed at Long Pond. If you like to troll or still-fish from a boat or canoe, you'll want to u e the state-owned launching facility near Ca tle Island. Shore anglers can try their luck spin Âˇ casting or fly fishing off the

causeway at Castle Island or at the picnic facility near Great Pond dam in Belgrade Village. Another good bet for salmon fishing in Fishery Region B is St. George Lake in Liberty. This 1,095 acre pond is located in Liberty. It has a good boat launch and a state park located on the north shore of the lake. The pond is about 30 minutes east of Augusta via Route 3. St. George's salmon may not be quite as large as Long Pond's salnion but good salmon anglers will find the catch rate to be satisfactory at St. George Lake and they will not be displeased by the average size of their catches. Don't put your salmon fishing gear away at the end of September. Long Pond and St. George Lake have extended fall fishing seasons. To be sure fall fishing for salmon is strictly catch-andrelease on these two waters but if you can tolerate a little ice in your guides and don't mind the prospect of release a 20 inch+ landlocked, you could be in for a treat. Some of the best salmon catches of the year are made in October! Two other Region B waters that provide fishing for trophy landlocks are Swan Lake in Swanville and Wassookeag Lake in Dexter. These waters are located to the east and north of Augusta, perhaps a hours drive away. Both lakes are open to fishing winter and summer but neither has an extended fall fishing season. The reason for both fall closures is to protect spawning lake trout (togue). These two lakes have public boat launches. Salmon stocking rates in both of these waters are low in a deliberate attempt to foster fast http: // www.stale.me. us / i fw/homepage. h tm I

growth rates. The approach has been successful but at the expense of catch rates. So don't expect fast salmon fishing at Swan or Wassookeag, however, the payoff, when it does come, may well be in the form of a 3-5 pound landlocked.

Splake Splake are not a new fish species. They are a hybrid, a cross between brook trout and lake trout. (See splake story on page

pond is accessed off the Sandy River Road in Fayette. Early reports from the first stocking in Messalonskee Lake indicate that splake hold great promise as a possible answer to the woes of that water's salmonid fishery. Splake from the initial stocking have grown very rapidly with some fish reaching the 4 pound mark. It remains to be seen if this fast growth can be maintained over time.

Lake Trout

19.)

Currently, splake are being managed in six waters in Region B. Annual stocking programs are underway at Basin Pond in Fayette, Jamies Pond in Manchester, Messalonskee Lake in Oakland, etc., Minnehonk Lake in Mt. Vernon, Pleasant Pond in Turner, and Sheepscot Pond Palermo. Basin Pond provides the best opportunity for capturing a large fish. Splake exceeding 20 inches have been taken in Basin. The

Just a few waters are managed for lake trout in Region B. Stocking programs provide togue fisheries in Damariscotta Lake, Echo Lake, Maranacook Lake and Lower Narrows Pond. Significant lake trout fisheries in Swan Lake and Wassookeag Lake are based entirely on natural reproduction. A residual wild togue-population that provides a small fishery is found in Sheepscot Lake. All of these waters are open to fishing during the ice fishing and open

utdoorsWoman

water fishing seasons and all have public access. Togue fishing is generally not fast at any of our lake trout waters, but Swan Lake and W assookeag Lake provide the best opportunity for landing a togue in Region B. Both of these waters are known to produce a few nice-sized lakers each year.

Rainbow Trout Just two waters, the Kennebec River and Megunticook Lake, are being managed for rainbows in Region B. Both of these programs are experimental. The rainbows utilized at Megunticook Lake were purchased by the Megunticook Lake Fish and Game Association and most of those that have been stocked in the Kennebec River were purchased by the Kennebec Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited. The jury is still out on both of these programs but of the two the Kennebec River program appears to have been the most successful. â&#x20AC;˘

September 18, 19, 20, 1998 Bishopswood Camp Lake Megunticook â&#x20AC;˘ Hope, Maine

This workshop is aimed primarily at women 18 yrs & older interested in learning or honing their outdoor skills in firearms/range safety, fly fishing, canoeing, sea kayaking, plant & tree identification, map & compass, white-tail deer hunting, duck hunting, turkey hunting and much more! Workshop Fee: includes instruction in all sessions, program materials, use of equipment, all meals and lodging. Limited funds are available for partial financial assistance. Total fee to be announced.

Call 207-287-8000 for a full brochure & application form!! Registrations close on August 24, 1998. Sponsored by the Maine Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and Maine Warden Service Assoc.

http: // www.stale.me. us/i fw / homepage.h tm I

Spring 1998

BASS MENT AINE Many of Maine's rivers-including the Penobscot, Kennebec and Androscogginserve up some of the best smallmouth bass action in all of the Northeast.

by Dennis McNeish

Regional Fisheries Biologist Maine's bass resource is an extremely valuable asset for several reasons. First, bass are found in over 0.5 million acres of water in Maine. Secondly, although Maine 's bass resource requires careful management to remain healthy, our bass populations are based on natural reproduction , that is, annual stocking programs are not required. Third , while most of bass waters are, as yet, lightly fished , the popularity of bass fishing is growing rapidly in Maine and the fishery is becoming increasingly important to local economies. Traditionally , Maine fishery biologists have utilized a decidedly 'laissez faire ' approach to bass management. After all , bass maintain themselves through natural repro -

Maine Fish and Wi ldlife

duction so the species can manage quite nicely on their own, can 't they? Well, for many years , they did! More recently , the increase in bass fishing effort and the results of the work of biologists in Ontario has led the Department to rethink this philosophy. Basically, the work of the Ontario scientists indicates that black bass in the northern part of their range are susceptible to climate-induced yearclass failures. Furthermore, bass are slow-growing in Maine waters so it takes many years for a bass to reach desirable size and there are not very many "trophy-size" bass in a given lake. These biological facts are complicated by the fact that Maine anglers preferentially seek larger bass, the very fish that are few in number, and that when removed , take a long time to replace . Clearly, size quality in many Maine bass

populations is likely to decline when fishing pressure, and removal , is high. So the Department's fishery biologists set out to devise a management approach that would preserve size quality in most Maine lakes and restore it where it has degraded. After long , sometimes heated discussions, the Department promulgated a 12 inch length limit and 1 fish bag limit for the period January 1 through June 20. A 3 fish bag limit, only 1 of which can exceed 14 inches , was established for the remainder of the open water season. Dire predictions to the contrary notwithstanding , the changes were well received by the public. In the intervening 7 years the general law regulations have change somewhat and special regulations have been adopted for a few individual lakes but all in all our new bass management philosophy has not changed. Presently Maine's bass resource is in good shape and with continued vigilance by fishery managers, it promises to remain so.

http :// ww w.s ta te. m e. u s/ ifw / ho m e p age. h tm I

A lazy day Downeast. This placid scene evokes recollections of the thoughts of an earlier angler: "Some men fish all their lives without knowing it is not really the fish they are after." - Henry David Thoreau

by Ron Brokaw Regional Fisheries Biologist Oowneast Maine (See map Region C) is noteworthy because of the wide variety of angling experiences it offers. Anglers can choose among coldwater (salmonid) and warmwater http: // www .s tate.me. u s/i fw /h omepage. html

fisheries in lakes, easily accessible and remote wilderness-type waters, wading or fishing from a canoe for wild brook trout in streams. Numerous waters offer good fishing for one or more of 9 species of sportfish; landlocked salmon, brook trout, lake trout

(togue), brown trout, splake, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, white perch, and pickerel. The region boasts one of the top 10 salmon and togue lakes in Maine (West Grand Lake), one of the top 5 riverine fisheries for salmon (Grand Lake Stream), some of the very best small Spring 1998

mouth bass angling in the state, and the premier lake for whitefish in eastern Maine, West Grand Lake.

West Grand lake This very popular water (14,340 acres) received in excess of 15,000 angler-days of use in 1997. Anglers are attracted to this crystal clear, largely undeveloped water which provides very good salmon fishing, excellent sport for togue and whitefish, and, somewhat surprisingly, good action for smallmouths. Most of the annual use occurs in May during the ice-out and late spring salmon fishery. In most years, anglers make good catches of nicely shaped 17- to 18-inch salmon by trolling streamers on the surface or fishing a wobbler down 2-3 colors. Biologists monitor this important spring fishery each year by conducting a creel survey as anglers return to the landing adjacent to the dam. For the 1995-97 seasons, the average weight of a salmon brought in on a stringer or in a cooler was 1 lb., 12 oz., heavier than the statewide average. The lake was formerly stocked with togue, but this practice ended in 1989 once it was determined that enough natural reproduction was occurring to sustain the fishery. Average weight of togue creeled by ice and open water anglers in recent years is 3 1 / 43 pounds. Fishing has substantially improved as current catch rates have more than doubled compared to 10 years ago. The lake has a well-deserved reputation as a producer of "Junker" togue; every year, a number of 10-20 pound fish are hauled up

Maine Fish and Wi/dl,fe

from the cold depths. During the 1994 ice fishing season, a 25 pounder was landed. Every February, a village of ice fishing shacks suddenly appears in Junior Bay as whitefish enthusiasts try their luck. On the better days, anglers can catch a limit of 8 of these delectable fish. Although West Grand Lake is best known for its salmon, togue, and whitefish, this water's smallmouth bass fishery should not be overlooked.

fish limit on salmon, and catch and release only during the extended October 1-20 season. Anglers catch good numbers of 17-19 "salmon in most years, routinely releasing most of their fish. Two fairly sizeable hatches (Hendrickson's around mid-May and caddis in early-mid June) afford anglers a good opportunity to catch fish on dry flies . Streamers and nymphs account for the bulk of the early season catch.

Grand lake Stream

Big Lake

The outlet of West Grand, Grand Lake Stream, supports an outstanding salmon fishery. Numerous nonresidents eagerly make annual trips to this storied water in May-June and September-October to battle leaping salmon in fast water habitat. The following special regulations have helped main tain a quality fishery: fly fishing only, a one

Two other waters, Big Lake and Grand Falls Flowage, in this part of the region provide outstanding smallmouth bass fisheries . Both waters attract numerous nonresident "sports" who fish these waters each June to do battle with feisty smallmouths. These waters have responded well to the slot limits adopted in 1992. These waters

On a rainy day in early October, Maine Governor Angus King tried his luck at Grand Lake Stream. A small salmon, tempted by a sparsely dressed wet fly and, perhaps, the prominence of the angler did rise to the occasion. (photo by V. Paul Reynolds) http ://www .s ta te. me . u sf i fw / homepage . h tm I

have provided excellent fishing in 1996 and 1997 with impressive numbers of 13-15" fish coming to the net. As these fish grow "through the slot", there should be some fine angling for 16" bass in the next several years. Although Grand Falls Flowage has historically been a consistent producer of 16-18" bass, it seems it's ready to yield even more fish of this highly desirable size. Anglers need to use caution when boating due to numerous slightly submerged deadheads. Further, for those seeking to fish within the Indian Township portions, they now need to secure a permit prior to their trip. Use of slot limits is not confined to bass management as Region C has the only two salmon slot limits currently "on the books" in Maine. An experimental 16-20 "slot limit wherein all salmon between 16 and 20 "must be immediately released is being tested at Tunk and Alligator Lakes. The objective is to provide a satisfactory fishery for salmon 20 "in length. Although it's much too soon to assess the effectiveness of this regulation, preliminary findings at Tunk are "good" and "fair" at Alligator.

Lake Trout Twenty years ago, the Downeast region stocked togue in 8 -9 waters. Now, only one is stocked as wild togue provide viable fisheries in Toddy Pond, Tunk Lake, Phillips Lake, Beech Hill Pond, Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, and West Grand Lake. The single togue stocking program remaining at Green Lake is producing a noteworthy fishery . Togue stocked at a low density grow rapidly, and provide http: // www .sta te . me. us / i fw / homepage .h tm I

anglers with good numbers of 3 1 /2-4 pound fish. The winter season of 1996 was especially good as numerous lucky anglers left the ice with 5-7 pound fish. A 19 -lb fish was caught in the 1994 ice fishing season. Another interesting thing about most Green Lake togue: they are some of the fattest to be seen anywhere in central or eastern Maine! Special regulations on two brook trout waters appear to be having favorable impacts. At Long Pond in Aurora, a fisheryinitiative water, anglers enjoyed an especially good 1997 spring season for nicely shaped 14-15 squaretails. Fish are stocked as 91111 spring yearlings, and are protected from harvest during their first summer in the pond. Trout grow rapidly on a diet of smelt, small sunfish, crayfish, and various bugs/insects. Each year, this water yields some 2-4 lb trout, and a 6 lb, 15 oz trophy was caught in 1995-the largest reported in Maine that' year! 11

Brook Trout Old Stream, in Washington County, historically has been one of the top 10 trout streams in eastern Maine. However, angling quality declined substantially in the 1980s due to increased fishing pressure, much of it from canoe trips. Since the stream continues to provide high quality habitat, the problem was over-exploitation by anglers. In an effort to halt the decline, special regulations were adopted in 1996. Old Stream is one of the few Downeast trout streams which annually yields some large trout in the 14-16 size class. Early follow-up work suggests an increase in the numbers of sublegal 8-10" trout. As these fish 11

continue to grow in 1998 and 1999, the fishery for legal trout should improve. In addition to Old Stream, anglers can fish 3 other special regulation streams: Fifth Lake Stream, West Branch of the Narraguagus River, and the upper reach of Crooked River.

Brown Trout From a management perspective, brown trout fill an important regional niche. They have provided satisfactory fisheries in waters where brook trout and salmon failed to do so. They have performed well in waters which are too warm for brookies or lack suitable forage (smelts) for salmon. Some of the better waters are Walker Pond, Flanders Pond, Jones Pond, Patrick Lake, Six-Mile Lake, Molasses Pond, and Bog Lake. Both Walker and Flanders yield 3- 4 lb browns on a regular basis. Patrick Lake is a favored ice fishing spot where anglers make good catches of 15-18 browns. Limited fisheries for wild brown trout exist in Branch Lake and Lower Patten Pond. Special 18-in minimum lengths on brown trout in these waters allow all females to spawn once prior to being subjected to angling mortality. Both these waters produce a few fish in the 4-6 lb class in most years. 11

Splake Splake are currently stocked in about a dozen regional waters. In most of these waters, they have provided good ice fishing for 1215 in age II fish. Although returns of older-age fish have been disappointing in some waters, other waters have yielded some fine 2-4 pound fish. Peaked Mountain Pond, closed to ice fishing, provides some fine spring Spring 1998

and fall sport for 14-17" splake. Second and Third Lake Old Stream have yielded some 4-5 lb fish because of special harvest restrictions. Burntland Lake, Mopang Lake, and Toddy Pond are other good bets for splake. Fitts Pond, which received an introductory splake stocking in May, 1997 provided some good angling for 12-14 " fish in the early part of the 1998 ice fishing season.

Smallmouth Bass Downeast Maine boasts some of the very best smallmouth bass angling in Maine. Numerous lakes contain these sporty fish; anglers have many choices depending on whether they want to catch a lot of small bass, a fair number of medium size bass, or a chance at a fish or two in the 23 lb range. Meddybemps Lake and Cathance Lake provide very fast angling for small 9-11" fish . It's not uncommon for a reasonably skilled angler to catch from 30-40 bass in a day on these productive waters. Four Hancock county waters, Webb Pond, Abrams Pond, Great Pond, and Georges Pond, are managed for trophy smallmouths through 18" minimum lengths and one-fish limits. Two Washington county waters, Third and Fourth Machias lakes, are similarly managed, and two others, Silver Pug Lake and Wabassus Lake, provide trophy bass angling through catch and release regulations. All these waters annually produce some 34 lb smallmouths. For those anglers seeking good action for medium size bass, Branch Lake, Green Lake, Graham Lake, Crawford Lake, Pocomoonshine Lake, Rocky Lake, Gardner Lake, Hadley

Maine Fish and Wildlife

Lake and Boyden Lake should fill the bill. The best fishing typically occurs from late Maylate June, which encompasses the spawning and post-spawning season. For much of this period, smallmouths can be caught in shallow water by casting lures or flies. Some outstanding fishing can be enjoyed with top water lures or flies in the early morning or evening when the wind abates creating calm surface conditions. Seeing a 2-3 lb smallmouth smash a surface lure represents the epitome of bass fishing. Although largemouths are relatively uncommon in eastern Maine, they provide good action in waters like Pierce Pond, Wight Pond, Crawford Lake, Pocomoonshine Lake, Second Lake and Rocky Lake.

White Perch Many anglers believe that the best eating freshwater fish of them all is the white perch. The firm, white, flaky flesh is truly delectable. White perch are widespread throughout the Downeast region, and provide excellent sport in numerous

waters. Anglers, once they become familiar with the "perch holes", can expect to make good catches of desirable size (10-12") fish at Webb Pond, Georges Pond, Lower Pond, Upper Patten Pond, Third Pond, Lower Lead Mountain Pond, Rocky Lake, Second Gardner Lake, Bog Lake, Pierce Pond, Big Lake, Grand Falls Flowage, East Machias River above Hadley Lake, Spectacle Pond, Crawford Lake, Mecidybemps Lake and Third Machias Lake. Once the perch "school up" in the summer, good catches are made in August-September by fishing worms a foot or so off bottom in the perch holes. It's one of the few species of freshwater fish which can be caught "one after the other" just like mackerel in the ocean. Their ready catchability along with fine taste makes this species one of the most eagerly sought after in Downeast Maine. It's also one of the best species to seek when teaching a youngster the basics of fishing. Anglers who don't go white perch fishing at least several times a season are truly missing out on a good thing. â&#x20AC;˘

Maine 's white perch continues to enjoy a reputation as a panfish of unparalleled flavor and texture. http :// www.sta le.me . us/i fw / home page.html

WHY SPLAKE? This means faster fishing for the angler and overall a better return on the sportsman's dollar. For example , Big Wood Pond in Jackman was one of the waters studied during the splake evaluation . Previous to the stocking of splake, Big Wood Pond was stocked with brook trout. During these years, the return of brook trout averaged 2-8% in the winter (i.e., for every 1000 lbs stocked, only 20 to 80 lbs were harvested by winter

During fall trapnetting, Fisheries Biologist Tim Obrey gathers data on a handsome splake.

by Tim Obrey Fisheries Biologist Why does the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife stock splake? This is a question often asked by Maine anglers. There are actually several reasons why this hybrid is actively managed in over 30 Maine waters. The reasons can be summed up in two words , "High Performance". For example, splake grow at a faster rate than either of its' paren tal species , the brook trout and lake trout. In one pond, splake were stocked at an average length of 7.9 inches in October. A splake was taken the following June that measured 16.6 inches . That means this fish grew an average of nearly an inch a month! Splake also survive at a much higher rate than stocked brook trout. This translates to older and larger fish for the Maine angler. Splake are very catchable, especially in the winter. http :// www. s ta te . me. us/ ifw / hom epage .h tml

anglers). All of the brook trout checked by biologists on the lake were age 2. These wern fish stocked the previous spring. No older hatchery trout were checked. When the splake stocking program began , winter returns were in the range of 40 - 60 % for age 2 splake. In addition to this huge improvement in age 2 returns was the fact that splake were surviving to older ages. An additional 37% was harvested at ages 3 and older for a total of 141 % of the weight stocked. That's impressive. Similar results were observed on other study waters . But shouldn 't the Department be stocking fish that can reproduce, so less stocking will be needed in the future? This sounds good in theory but what are the facts regarding stocked fish and their contribution to natural reproduction. As mentioned earlier, in many waters hatchery brook trout never live beyond their first winter at large . Therefore, they don't live long enough to mature and spawn. The fact is most of the fish

stocked by the IF&W are not stocked with the intention of ever spawning. They are stocked to grow and be harvested by anglers (putgrow-take). Most of our stocked waters in the State simply do not have the quantity or quality habitat necessary to provide the amount of spawning required to sustain a fishery. So , whichever species is stocked , there is very little opportunity for significant natural reproduction. Although it has never been documented in the wild, it has been done successfully in the hatchery situation. We do not expect to see any wild splake in Maine in the future. Splake have enabled the IF&W to enhance coldwater angling in the State. In many waters where hatchery brook trout were stocked and provided only a put and take fishery , splake now provide larger fish and more opportunity to catch a fish. The splake program has created quality fisheries and more opportunity in many waters that otherwise would have little fishing value . Also, in many cases , creating splake fisheries could have the added benefit of reducing fishing pressure on nearby wild fisheries that are extremely valuable. Splake will greatly enhance fishing opportunity in Maine. Data collected during the splake study are conclusive . Splake outperform hatchery brook trout in waters where water quality is adequate and where use/harvest are not excessive . In addition , many splake waters can provide extended season fishing . For these reasons , splake will play an important role in the Departments efforts to increase fishing opportunity and improve fishing quality in the State of Maine. Spri11g1998

The wild brook trout. Maine 's Rangeley chain of lakes in the state's western mountains are perhaps most famous for their populations of native Eastern brook trout.(Art by Mark Susinno reprinted courtesy of Wild Wings.)

by Forrest Bonney Regional Fisheries Biologist The Rangeley chain of lakes in Western Maine is a land of salmon and brook trout. The brook trout are native; the salmon (and the smelt they feed on) were introduced over a hundred years ago. Before the salmo:p were introduced, brook

Mnine Fish nnd Wi ldlife

trout gorged on blueback trout and grew to tremendous size. The bluebacks disappeared after the turn of the century, but this chain of lakes still provides salmon and trout fishing that attracts anglers from far and wide. The Rangeley chain of lakes, which form the headwaters of the Androscoggin River, lie in Maine's western moun-

tains. The Appalachian Trail runs south of the lakes, providing views of the lakes and mountains to the north, as well as providing access to a series of isolated trout ponds. The Rangeley Region (See map, Region D) pioneered fly fishing, and many of the waters, especially the rivers and smaller trout ponds, are limited to fly http: //www.state.me.us / ifw / homepage.h tm I

fishing today. On the larger lakes, trolling with flies, lures, or sewedon bait is the preferred angling method. A number of waters, particularly stocked trout ponds, have less restrictive regulations, and provide great opportunities for family fishing. Central to the Region is the Rangeley chain of lakes. Rangeley village, located on the northeast shore of Rangeley Lake, has a wide variety of businesses catering to anglers. There are motels, inns, and ca bins to provide housing, as well as marinas, restaurants, fly fishing shops, and a helpful Chamber of Commerce, which can be reached at (207) 8645571 . Rangeley Lake itself is famous for its landlocked salmon fishery. Fishing is fastest from iceout through June, but salmon can be caught throughout the season by trolling deep. For those unfamiliar with salmon fishing, it is worthwhile to hire a guide to learn the secrets. Campsites and a launch site are available at the State Park, located on the south shore. Additional launch sites are located in the villages of Rangeley and Oquossoc. Nearby Mooselookmeguntic Lake has good fishing for both wild salmon and brook trout. With the imposition of more restrictive brook trout regulations at Mooselookmeguntic (or Mooselook, as it is called locally) in 1996, the size of the wild brookies is increasing, with 2 to 3 pound fish becoming common. There are boat launching sites at Haines Landing, Oquossoc, off Route 16 at the north end of the lake, and at the sou th end of the lake. There is also a campground on the east side of the lake with remote campsites on islands and on the undeveloped shoreline. h ttp: // www . tale.me. us/ ifw/ homepage.html

Fly fisherman Peter Grundy caught and released this handsome five-pound brookie recently on the Rapid River in the Rangeley region. The Kennebago River is the primary nursery area for Mooselook' s salmon, and provides a famous salmon and trout fishery in its own rite. These fish are hatched in the river, but many eventually drop down to the lake where they put on growth by foraging on smelts. On their return spawning runs they provide excellent fishing. Restrictive regulations, including catch and release after August 15, assure that there is plenty of

action and that there is ample escapement for the fish to spawn. The Cupsuptic River runs from the Canadian border through wild and scenic mountainous area into Cupsuptic Lake, which constitutes the upper portion of Mooselook Lake. The river is cold yearround, and contains a large population of slow-growing native brook trout that nonetheless provide fast fishing. Remote Spri11s1998

campsites can be procured from the campground at the north end of Cupsuptic Lake. The Richardson Lakes, further west, also support salmon and there is a limited fishery for lake trout. There are public boat launch sites at the north end (Mill Brook) and south end (South Arm), where there is a campground. Upper Dam Pool, between Mooselook and Richardson Lake, is open to fly fishing with restrictive regulations, and produces nice salmon and brook trout that are attracted to the flow below Upper Dam. Access is by boat or by road with a onemile walk beyond the Union Water Power Company gate. Effective 1998, Upper Dam Pool will be open to catch and release fishing during the month of October. A world-class fishery has developed at the Rapid River, the outlet of the Richardson lakes, for wild brook trout. This is a catch-and-release fishery, and trout in the five-pound class have been taken. There are also fisheries for landlocked salmon and the occasional lake trout in this river. This is a remote river, and access is by boat from the Richardsons or from Umbagog Lake from the lower end. Umbagog Lake, on the New Hampshire border, has a good fishery for bass, and also a unique fishery for northern pike. Aziscohos Lake was formed by damming the Magalloway River. These waters, located near the ew Hampshire border, have miles of undeveloped shoreline. The lake supports salmon, but it is the wild brook trout fishery that is currently coming into its own. As at Mooselook Lake, the new brook

Mn111r Fish nnd Wi /d/, fr

trout regulations are resulting in larger sized fish. There is a public launch site near the south end, and remote campsites on the lake can be procured at the main camping area near the landing. The Magalloway River itself provides an attractive fishery for both salmon and trout. Roads to that portion of the river above the lake are gated, however, requiring access by canoe or foot. There are sporting camps at the north end of the lake that cater to both lake and river anglers. Other notable fishing waters within the Rangeley Region include those in the Dead River drainage. Check your map for waters along the North Branch of the Dead River (which contains brookies) such as the scenic Chain of Ponds for lake trout and salmon fishing and a number of smaller waters, such as Crosby Pond, Bug Eye Pond, and Little Jim Pond for brook trout fishing. Try Big Jim Pond for lake trout and salmon. The main stem of the Dead River below Flagstaff Lake (where there is a developing rainbow trout fishery) and its tributary Spencer Stream lie in a remote area and have attractive seasonal wild brook trout fisheries. Spring Lake provides fisheries for lake trout and brook trout; Spencer Lake has fisheries for lake trout and salmon. The Pierce Pond area has famous fisheries for both brook trout and salmon. Many of these waters are relatively remote, and restrictive regulations are in effect to assure continued quality fishing. Further east is the Kennebec River; from Harris Dam on down, fish for brookies and small salmon; from the Forks down, . add brown and rainbow trout. There is an especially attractive

rainbow trout fishery below Wyman Dam in the early spring. Smallmouth bass are abundant from Solon downstream and provide an attractive addition to the coldwater fishery. Also, there is a large number of lakes, ponds, and streams flowing into the Kennebec that contain fisheries for salmon, lake trout, and brook trout. The southern portion of the Rangeley Region contains many waters, including the main stems of the Androscoggin River and the Sandy River that have good to excellent bass fisheries. In particular, the Androscoggin River from Rumford to Jay has an outstanding smallmouth bass fishery with many fish in the 2 to 3 pound class. This section of the Androscoggin, upstream to the New Hampshire border, also has good fisheries for brown and rainbow trout. The lakes, ponds, and streams within these drainages have a mixed bag of fish species, both warmwater and cold. For the Region as a whole, perhaps the most dramatic recent change is the improvement in the brook trout fishery. Wild populations are responding to the new, more restrictive regulations that allow greater escapement to larger size. For stocked waters, the use of the larger spring yearling trout in recent years is providing faster fishing in many waters that had good water quality, but where the presence of competing warmwater species was limiting survival of the smaller fall fingerlings we had been stocking. We expect the fishing for brook trout to continue to improve, especially now that our new strains of hatchery brook trout are coming into production. â&#x20AC;˘ http://www.sta le.me. us/i fw/homepage.h tm I

by Paul Johnson Regional Fishery Biologist

Because it lies at the headwaters of the Kennebec, the West Branch of the Penobscot, the Piscataquis, the Pleasant, and the St. John rivers, the Moosehead Region has experienced fewer biological and physical changes than other areas in Maine.

Anglers will find, and enjoy much of the natural beauty described by Thoreau and other nineteenth century visitors to the region. The Moosehead Region is best known for Maine's three premier coldwater game fish species-

The Moosehead Lake Region (See map, Region E) encompasses 4,400 square miles of West Central Maine, and includes 127 townships plus Moosehead Lake. The region is drained by 330 miles of main stem rivers, into which flow 3,850 miles of smaller tributaries. During the last glacial era more than 1,200 natural lakes and ponds were carved into its landscape, varying in size from one-acre ponds to Moosehead, at 74,890 acres Maine's largest lake, and one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the United States. The total area of all standing surface waters in the region is more than 238,000 acres -24% of the total area of lakes and ponds in Maine!

Leaping landlocked salmon! There 's no angling thrill quite like a feisty salmon dancing across a sparkling Maine lake after being seduced by a streamer fly trolled on a fly line. (Painting, "Free Spirit," by Maine wildlife artist David Footer.) http ://www .sta te. me. us / ifw /homepage .h tm I

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brook trout, lake trout, and landlocked salmon. Brook trout are native to waters throughout the region. Maine's wild brook trout resources are unequaled in the Northeastern United States, and the Moosehead Region is well-endowed with wild trout populations. Lake trout, known for the large size which they attain in some waters, are also native throughout the region. Landlocked salmon, originally native only to Sebec Lake, in the southern part of the region, have been introduced throughout the region. There are also opportunities to fish for Maine's other coldwater species: burbot (cusk), lake whitefish, char (blueback trout), and brown trout. Even smelts, which are perhaps known best as an important forage fish, also provide fisheries in some waters. Splake, a hybrid between the lake trout and the brook trout, have been introduced to overcome competition from nongame species and create successful fisheries where other native fish, such as the brook trout, have not been successful. Coolwater and warmwater game fish species, though more limited in their distribution, are also present in the region. White perch, pickerel and yes, even the yellow perch have provided popular fisheries in the southern part of the region for years. Recently, smallmouth bass have increased in popularity throughout Maine. Although once very limited to the southernmost part of the region, they now provide fisheries in several waters around Moosehead Lake. Muskellunge have created new opportunities in the northwest corner of the region. Moosehead Lake, central to the region, is a popular destina-

tion for anglers, both winter and summer. In addition to the fishing, the clear water, miles of undeveloped shoreline, magnificent scenery, and the opportunity to observe wildlife all make a trip to Moosehead a memorable experience. Landlocked salmon. lake trout, brook trout, and cusk provide the principal fisheries which have attracted anglers for many years. Natural reproduction maintains the lake trout, brook trout, and cusk populations. Although annual salmon stocking contributes to the fishery, wild salmon produced in the tributaries comprise approximately half of the catch each year. Moosehead Lake's major tributary is the Moose River. It originates near the Canadian border to the west of Jackman, and all of the headwater streams offer fishing for wild brook trout. Just to the west of Jackman the Moose River flows through or near a series of lakes - Holeb Pond, Attean Lake, Big Wood Pond, and Little Big Wood Pond. Historically all of these waters were noted for salmon and brook trout. After yellow perch appeared in the drainage, in the late 1960s, brook trout fishing in the lakes was compromised. Nevertheless brook trout continue to contribute to the fisheries, and splake have been successfully introduced to add to the offerings of these waters. Salmon from annual stockings as well as some wild fish continue to provide fishing action in all of these lakes. The unique arrangement of these lakes relative to the Moose River allow for a canoe trip-the Bow Tripwhich begins and ends at the same location, either on Attean or Big Wood, with only one

major portage between Attean and Holeb. East of Jackman the Moose River flows through Long Pond to Brassua Lake, where salmon and brook trout again provide the major fisheries in these waters. Smelts also provide a popular fishery in Brassua. Downstream from Brassua, especially the mile of river immediately below its outlet dam, the Moose River is especially noted for salmon and trout fishing from June through September. Throughout the Moose River drainage there are numerous small trout ponds accessible over gravel roads or by trail. Many are wild trout ponds, others are stocked annually by aircraft. All await discovery by those willing to get back off a paved highway. The Roach River drainage, to the east of Moosehead Lake, is Moosehead's second largest tributary. The six miles of river between First Roach Pond and Moosehead offer seasonally excellent fishing for salmon and brook trout, in a small-river environment. This section of river is restricted to fly fishing only, catch and release fishing .First Roach Pond, the largest and deepest water in the drainage, is noted for salmon, trout and togue. Flowing out of Moosehead to the southwest are its East and West Outlets. The East Outlet is well-known for salmon and brook trout. The East Outlet is one the waters in the Moosehead Region open in October to catch and release fishing, and anglers are beginning to discover this late season opportunity to fish before putting away their rods for the winter. The West Outlet, open to general law fishing,

Mai11~ Fish n11d Wildlife

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offers both brook trout (yearlings are stocked in the upper reaches each spring) and smallmouth bass fishing. Although much smaller than the East Outlet, an adequate flow all summer allows a leisurely day-long canoe trip down to Indian Pond. Both the East and West Outlets flow into Indian Pond, where both salmon and smallmouth bass are found. Many small trout ponds drain into Indian Pond, and into the Kennebec River downstream from Indian Pond. Some of these ponds are accessible over gravel roads, many require a hike in. Especially noteworthy are the ponds that lie at the headwaters of Cold Stream, to the east of Parlin Pond. Wild brook trout and one minnow species are the only fish in these fly fishing only waters, and the trout thrive there in the absence of competition South and east of Moosehead the region is drained by the Piscataquis and Sebec rivers. Most of the Moosehead region's year-round population lives in this area, and many of the ponds are developed with seasonal camps. The headwaters of the East and West Branches of the Piscataquis River, above the town of Blanchard, support wild brook trout. The main stem of the Piscataquis between Guilford and Sebec is stocked with yearling brook trout each spring, and yearling brown trout each fall. These stockings have created a fishery where one did not exist prior to 1990. Smallmouth bass are also present in the Piscataquis below Guilford, and provide good fi hing. There are no dams to control the flow on the Piscataquis, so during the summer it gets quite low. However, pring water levels are conducive for an excellent float fishing trip http: // www .s ta te. me. us / i fw / homepage.ht ml

This angler hit it right on the West Branch of the Penobscot River below Ripogenus Dam.

down the river. Many of the ponds which drain into the Piscataquis are stocked each year with either brook trout, salmon, or splake. Ponds such as Kingsbury, Whetstone and Piper Ponds attract angler attention each year. The Wilson Ponds, though located just to the east of Greenville and Moosehead Lake, flow south into Sebec Lake through Wilson Stream. The Wilson Ponds provide fisheries for salmon and lake trout. Wilson Stream provides brook trout fishing for those willing to get back away from the road. Waters on the other major tributaries to Sebec Lake, Long Pond Stream and Ship Pond Stream, include Long Pond (salmon/ trout/ togue), Onawa

Lake (salmon and trout), Big Benson Pond (togue), and the Greenwood Ponds (brook trout and togue). Sebec Lake, one of the original homes of landlocked salmon in Maine, continues to support a fishery for wild salmon. Lake trout are stocked there each year, and provide an attractive fishery. Sebec's smallmouth bass and white perch fisheries should not be overlooked by warm water enthusiasts. To the East of Moosehead lies the headwaters of the Pleasant River. Both the West Branch, which flows through Gulf Hagas gorge, and the East Branch are excellent wild trout streams. All of the small ponds in both of these drainages are managed for wild brook trout. Spring 1998

Access into these areas is over gravel roads, and the areas are managed for recreation by the KI-Jo Mary unit of North Maine Woods, which charges day use and nightly camping fees. Most of the waters can be reached only by trail. The West Branch of The Penobscot River drains the largely undeveloped, forested area immediately to the northwest, north, and northeast of Moosehead Lake. Most of this area is owned by Great Northern Paper, access is provided by gravel roads, and overnight camping fees are charged. The North and South Branches of the Penobscot, to the northwest of Moosehead, comprise the headwaters of the West Branch. These rivers and their tributaries all provide stream fisheries for wild brook trout; there are no salmon in the drainage above Seboomook darn. The large lakes - Penobscot, Canada Falls, Long and Dole Ponds, and Seboomook - are also managed for wild brook trout. Penobscot Lake offers a chance to fish for blueback trout, and Long Pond has a population of wild lake trout. Numerous small ponds throughout the North and South Branch drainages offer trout fishing, with the fisheries in all but a couple supported entirely by natural reproduction. The West Branch downstream from Seboomook Lake to and including Chesuncook Lake, is best known for its landlocked salmon fishing. Salmon were introduced into the drainage in the early 1900s, but since 1978 natural reproduction has maintained all of the salmon fisheries that presently occur throughout the upper West Branch drainage. The best river fishing opportuni-

Mai11e Fish a11d Wildlife

The late Bud Leavitt, outdoor writer for the Bangor Daily News, discovered muskie fishing on Maine 's Baker Lake. The muskies are still there, and the fishing 's great!

ties are found in the four miles immediately downstream from Seboomook darn, and in the six miles or so immediately above Chesuncook Lake. A long stretch of relatively flat water separates these two popular fishing areas. The West Branch, including the

side trip into Lobster Lake, is noted for canoe camping. On this waterway, now managed as the Penobscot Corridor by the Bureau of Parks and Recreation, outdoor enthusiasts can follow in the footsteps of Henry Thoreau and other nineteenth century http: // www.state.me.us/ i fw / homepage.h tml

visitors who explored the region with their Indian guides. In Lobster Lake anglers will find lake trout and white perch in addition to the salmon. Chesuncook Lake is best known for its wild salmon population, but it also provides fishing for white perch and cusk. Loon and Caucomgomoc Lakes flow into Chesuncook from the north through Caucomgomoc Stream. These waters also provide salmon fishing opportunities. Ripogenus Dam impounds the waters of Chesuncook Lake. Flows through the dam generate power for Great Northern, but also assure adequate year-round flows for salmon habitat and salmon fishing downstream in the West Branch. The river below Ripogenus Dam provides one of the best high quality salmon fisheries in Maine. To the south of this section of the West Branch lies the Rainbow and Nahmakanta lakes country, which provides many opportunities to hike into remote ponds. Rainbow Lake, one of the few large lakes left in Maine not accessible by road, is home to the blueback trout as well as to wild population of brook trout. A height of land separates the Penobscot River drainage from headwaters of the St. John River to the north. Access to all of the waters in this area is over gravel roads, and through gates managed by North Maine Woods. Day use fees, and overnight camping fees are charged here. The head waters of the Allagash River lie in the Moosehead Region. The Allagash is one of very few Maine drainages left with its natural assemblage of native coldwater species unaltered by many introductions of other fish species. The smelt is http: // www.state.me. us/ ifw/homepage.h tml

the only species introduced into the upper reaches of the waterway. Natural reproduction supports the brook trout, lake trout, lake whitefish and burbot (cusk) fisheries in the lakes of the Allagash Waterway. Anglers can launch a boat with a motor to fish Chamberlain Lake, Telos Lake, and Round Pond. But to reach Allagash Lake requires a walk or canoe trip of at least a mile, and paddling a canoe while you are there. It is one of very few places in Maine that cannot be reached easily, and where no motorized equipment is allowed. The headwaters of the main stem of the St. John River lie to the west of the Allagash Waterway. All of the St. John's tributaries offer excellent, though seasonal trout fisheries. The St. John River has long been noted for its spring canoeing opportunities, with trips beginning at either Fifth St. John Pond or Baker Lake on the Baker Branch. Fishing for wild brook trout along the way has been an integral part of most St. John River trips. Recently a new fishery has developed on the upper reaches of the Baker Branch, where muskellunge have wandered into the drainage from an early 1970s introduction in Lac Frontiere, Quebec. Muskies have established a self-sustaining population in Baker Lake, creating one of the most exciting fishing opportunities in the Moosehead Lake Region. Anglers must travel long distances to find the kind of muskellunge fishing available in Baker Lake. Muskellunge are very large predators, so there has been some concern over their impact, especially on the brook trout in the drainage. So far the news is good. No brook trout fisheries have been adversely affected, and the new

fishery that has developed is for muskellunge that average over 7 pounds! Like smallmouth bass, muskies can be caught throughout the summer, when traditional coldwater fisheries are dormant. Individual preferences determine the best time to fish in the region. Traditionally, surface fishing for salmon and trout in the lakes is best in the weeks following ice out, though some years the fishing for these species improves again as the waters cool in September. June and September are probably the best months to plan on stream fishing for salmon and trout. Brook trout in the small ponds respond well from ice out until early in July, and again in September. Surface fishing for lake trout is best for a short time after ice out. After that anglers must fish down where this deep water dweller finds temperatures that suit it throughout the warm summer months. Bass fishing action is usually fastest around the time they spawn, in early June, but bass do provide action all season long. Access into the Moosehead Region over paved highways is through Dover-Foxcroft, Guilford, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman. Accommodations in the region vary from motels, to sporting camps, to campgrounds, to individual remote campsites. Fishing opportunities abound, whether from boat with motor, canoe, or from the shore; whether roadside or hike-in for a day of solitude on a remote pond. Serious anglers should come prepared to explore and discover for themselves the diversity of fisheries and opportunities that the Moosehead Region offers. There's a lot of fishing to look for, and to look forward to, in the Moosehead Region. â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 1998

by Michael Smith

Regional Fisheries Biologist The Penobscot Region is located in the east central part of the state. The eastern edge of the region (See map, Region F) borders on New Brunswick, Canada. As the name implies, the majority of the region lies within the Penobscot River drainage. This region is probably the most diverse in the state in terms of both land terrain and fisheries from the high lands and trout ponds of Baxter State Park to the low lands and bass fisheries of the lower Penobscot River. Penobscot River is considered one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries in the eastern united states. The area from Old Town to Medway offers approximately 60 miles of fast action for smallmouths in the 10 to 15 inch size, with bass up to 20 inches a possibility. The exciting aspect of the fishery is the fact that it always seems to produce good fishing right through the summer. In spite of the Penobscot River's clo e proximity to a state highway, the opportunity to see bald eagles, ospreys, great blue

Mai11c Fis/, and Wi ldlife

The Penobscot Region is probably the most diverse of all the regions- from the highlands and trout ponds of Baxter State Park to the lowlands and bass fisheries of the Penobscot River. (Photo by Bill Cross) herons, deer, otter, and other wildlife add another dimension to the trip. Float trips down the Penobscot are a way to relax, see the river and all its wildlife, and catch a bunch of scrappy smallmouth bass. There are public boat ramps and carry sites situated every few miles along its length. West Branch Penobscot River support a world cla s landlocked salmon fishery from Ripogenus Dam to Ambajejus Lake. The area below Sourdnahunk Deadwater i managed by this regional office, above the deadwater through the Greenville Regional Office. Th West Branch is known for its large landlocked almon, some

fish weighing over five pounds. Because of the dynamic nature of the West Branch, there are different regulations suited to a particular section of river, but fishery regulations to enhance the size quality are the norm. There is a popular spring troll fishery commencing April 1 at the Sourdnahunk Dead water for over wintering salmon. A private log haul road, the Golden Road, runs adjacent to much of the upper ection of the river and provides acce to the entire tretch, while th area below Abol Bridge is more remote and access is less available. East Branch Penobscot River from Matagamon Lake to the

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confluence with the West Branch supports fisheries for brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass. The wide variety of habitat types offer a myriad of fishing experiences throughout the system, from fly fishing for brook trout and landlocked salmon in the upper reaches to spin fishing for bass in the area below Whetstone Falls. Special regulations designed to enhance the brook trout and salmon fisheries have been implemented within the East Branch system, and results so far have been very encouraging. The preferred method to experience the East Branch fishery is to take two or three days and float the river from Matagamon to Whetstone. There are enough authorized campsites to accommodate campers most any time during the season. A large commercial campground located just below

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Grand Matagamon Lake is an excellent starting point for those anglers who prefer to make day trips to various sites along the river. Day use access is from both the north from the Grand Lake Road and from the south via the Stacyville Road. Baxter State Park contains a many trout ponds and streams that produce a wide variety of numbers and sizes of trout. Several of the waters lie within easy walking distance of the park road system however, many more require walks of several minutes to hours to reach. Regulations also vary widely according to the type of trout fishery that each pond can produce. Ponds that grow large numbers of small trout have general law regulations while

ponds that produce larger trout in fewer numbers have more restrictive regulations. One pond, Lower Fowler Pond, in the north end of the park is open to catch and release fishing only. Wassataquoik Lake in the center of the park is one of the few remaining waters with blueback trout (Arctic char) . Sourdnahunk Lake on the western boundary of the park is probably the most productive brook trout lake in the state. Although the trout do not usually grow to large sizes, 10" to 12" average with fish up to 18", there are many trout in this lake. The lake is currently open only in the open water season and is restricted to fly fishing only with a five fish, 10" minimum length bag limit. There is a

For the angler after wild trout, the Chairback Ponds offer great promise for those willing to hike a way to get there.

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public campground on the southeast shore next to the outlet where boats and canoes may be rented and launched. A public launch is accessible from the Baxter State Park perimeter road. Several more nice trout ponds are located in the Katahdin Iron Works area such as Horseshoe Pond, Little Lyford Pond and East and West Chairback ponds. Landlocked salmon are the predominate cold water fishery species in the region. Several lakes produce exceptional salmon fishing during both the open water and ice fishing seasons. Probably the most consistent and notable salmon fishery is East Grand Lake in the headwaters of the St. Croix River on the border with Canada. Thi1' lake continues to produce good numbers of large, healthy salmon. The lake also contains a smaller population of larger sized lake trout, lake whitefish, and cusk. Access to the area can be slow and difficult, especially in the winter, because of the road system beyond Lincoln. Once at the lake the easiest public access points are at Greenland Cove in Danforth off Route #1 and at Davenport Cove in Weston also off Route #1. There are also a few other smaller, more remote access spots around the lake. There are several sporting camps on the lake that cater to fisherman and can provide guide service. Immediately downstream from East Grand Lake lies Spednic Lake. Spednic is a large, 17,000 acres and 17 miles long, undeveloped lake on the boundary with Canada. Many canoe expeditions down the St. Croix River begin on scenic Spednic Lake. Although most noted for its bp.ss fishery Spednic Lake has

Marne Fish a11d Wi ldlife

produced some large salmon. Salmon fishing on this lake can be quite difficult because of the very diverse nature of the lake and limited salmon habitat so the services of a local experienced guide are recommended. The bass population on this lake collapsed in the mid 1980s. In 1987 the lake was closed to the taking of bass, and other corrective measures were implemented which have resulted in a tremendous recovery of the bass population in this lake. Even though the very large bass have not returned, the lake is once again providing a very active bass fishery and it is only a matter of time before trophy bass will again inhabit Spednic Lake. The principal access for Spednic is located in the town of Vanceboro. Other very notable salmon lakes in this region include Pleasant Lake in Island Falls, Pleasant Lake in Kossuth Twp., Lower Sysladobsis Lake in Lakeville Plt., Seboeis Lake in T3 R9 NWP, Duck Lake in T4 ND, West Lake in T3 ND and Cold Stream Pond in Enfield. West Lake has been the subject of several salmon studies since the early 1980s. This lake has been a very consistent producer of above average size salmon for many years. In some years stocked brook trout can be caught in good numbers. There is a good bass population in this lake however most of these fish are not large. Recent land acquisitions by this Department and the Department of Conservation should help to prevent further development of the shoreline around this lake. Cold Stream Pond in Enfield is especially notable for the fishery improvements that have

occurred in recent years. The lake was heavily stocked with salmon and lake trout for many years which resulted in an abundance of small fish. The lake trout stocking was discontinued and the salmon stocking was reduced. Eventually the natural reproduction of lake trout increased enough to support a good fishery for lake trout and the growth of the salmon improved greatly. Recent stockings of brook trout have done very well making Cold Stream Pond one of a few lakes where an angler can have good fishing for lake trout, salmon and brook trout. Pemadumcook Chain of Lakes include North and South Twin, Ambajejus, and Pemadumcook Lakes located west of the Town of Millinocket, and impounded by North Twin Dam. One of the larger lakes in the region at 18,300 acres, the Pemadumcook Chain offers anglers good fishing for stocked landlocked salmon and lake trout, as well as wild populations of lake whitefish, white perch, pickerel, and cusk. The West Branch is the major tributary to Ambajejus Lake and has a profound influence on the fish populations in the Pemadumcook Chain. In the spring, there is a very popular dipnet fishery for smelt as they enter the West Branch of the Penobscot at the northwest corner of the lake. The waters in the chain are accessed by improved trailer ramps at South Twin Lake and from the dike at Ambajejus. Millinocket Lake, located across the dike from Ambajejus Lake, is a large, deep body of water that provides fishing opportunity for stocked almon, stocked lake trout, smelt, white http: // www.sta le. me.us/if w/ho m epage . h tml

A fine Penobscot River smallmouth bass. This river's smallmouth fishery is considered one of the best in the eastern United States.

perch, pickerel, and cusk. There is a very popular hook and line fishery in Millinocket for smelt in the winter. Access is provided by a improved ramp adjacent to the pumping station on the dike. Scraggly Lake in T7 RS WELS is a very picturesque lake on public lands in the north end of the region. An unusual occurrence has taken place here in recent years. Salmon were introduced into the lake in the 1960s and the fishery was maintained by annual stocking. In the early 1990s, in ves tiga tions revealed that a substantial amount of natural reproduction had taken place and that there were actually more wild than tocked almon present in the lake. Because of the large number of fish the growth rate dropped dramatically and http: // www .s lale.me. us /ifw /homepage.h Im I

stocking was discontihued. Investigations in 1997 showed that natural reproduction is continuing to produce many salmon and growth continues to be poorer than normal. The increase in salmon numbers appears to have adversely affected the brook trout population. The lake is, however, very attractive, undeveloped, and has several remote, water access camp sites Schoodic Lake is located in the western part of the region, in the Piscataquis River drainage. The lake was managed for a stocked landlocked salmon fishery and an abundant, wild, slow growing population of lake trout for many years. Because of the slow growth of both species , managei::nent strategies changed in the early 1990s. Landlocked salmon

stocking was discontinued, spring yearling brook trout stocking was started, and an effort was made to bring the wild lake trout population under control through liberal length and bag limits. These changes combined with the establishment of a smelt population through smelt egg transfers has turned Schoodic Lake into a very popular fishery. Lake trout size quality has improved dramatically in the last few years, and the stocked, spring yearling, brook trout have gone a long way towards pleasing area anglers. Access is provided from the Brownville side at Knights Landing, and a unimproved landing in the town of Lakeview. Smallmouth Bass Lakes to numerous to mention them all are spread throughout the region. South Branch Lake, Nicatous Lake, Pushaw Lake, Caribou Long and Egg Ponds, Baskahegan Lake, Upper and Lower Hot Brook Lakes, East Branch Lake, Pleasant Lake, Mattawamkeag Lake, and many others offer the bass fisherman unlimited opportunities in the region. Some of these lakes offer the opportunity to catch larger bass in the three to five pound category, and other lakes offer large numbers of bass in the ten to fifteen inch size class. Access varies with the particular lake, and ranges from hand carry to improved trailer access for ~rgerboa~. â&#x20AC;˘ Spri11g 1998

E IVER

Northern Maine remains the last stronghold of coldwater sport fisheries. The native Eastern brook trout inhabits most waters in the Fish River and Allagash drainages. ( Art by Mark Susinno, repr;nted courtesy of the artist and Wild Wings, Inc.)

by David Basley Regional Fishery Biologist The Fish River Chain of Lakes (See map, Region G) management region located in the 'Crown of Maine' remains the last stronghold of Maine's traditional coldwater species. Natural barriers on the major river drainages have kept warmwater sportfish (black bass, white perch, pickerel) from becoming established in this part of the state. Angling for these warmwater species is limited to a few waters in the East Branch of the Mattawamkeag River and the Main Branch of the Meduxnekeag River in southern Aroostook County. Elsewhere brook trout, lake trout (togue), and landlocked salmon reign supreme!

Brook Trout Wild brook trout are the predominate sportfish in this management region. Almost any brook that has cold water and a gravel bottom contains brook trout populations. The larger rivers and tributaries renown for their wild trout I

Mni11e Fish and Wildlife

fishing include the Aroostook, Allagash, St. John and Fish Rivers. Special regulation sections have been established on stretches of many of these waters in an attempt to improve the fishing quality. However,

special regulations account for less than 3 percent of the 7,000 miles of flowing waters in this region. Typical size of trout in the smaller brooks is 6-8 in., whereas in larger rivers trout 10-12 in. are more common. As http: // www.state.me. us / ifw /h omepage .h Im I

with all coldwater species, it is necessary to fish cool water influences during the warm summer months in order to remain successful in catching these fish. This region contains many opportunities to catch brook trout in larger (>500 acres) lakes. As with the rivers and streams, these fisheries are maintained by wild trout populations. Popular summer and winter fishing destinations include lakes in the Fish River Chain and the Allagash River drainage. Brook trout 12-14 in. are common from these larger lakes. Many of the smaller ponds receive annual stockings of hatchery-reared trout to supplement existing natural populations. Fishing quality may vary from fishing for pan-size trou t to a few ponds that are managed for much larger fish. Several stocked trout ponds have had the fishing season extended into October under a strictly catch and release regulation.

Landlocked Salmon River fishing for this species is essentially limited to the Aroostook and Fish River drainages. Small river populations supplemented with dropdown fish out of lakes offer an opportunity for spring and

Most flowing brooks and streams in Region G that contain coldwater and gravel bottoms are habitat for brookies. Mid-May, when the maple buds are the "size of a mouse's ear," can be a productive time on Maine trout brooks and streams. Photo by Richard Procopio http: // www.stale.me. us /i fw / homepage. html

Spring 1998

fall fishing. Because it is considered a minor sport fishery and to enhance the ongoing effort to restore Atlantic salmon, all salmon caught in flowing waters in the Aroostook River drainage must be immediately released alive commencing with the 1998 open water fishing season. Popular destinations for lake fishing for landlocked salmon include the Fish River Chain of Lakes, more notably Fish, Square, and Long Lakes, and headwater lakes of the Aroostook River and its major tributaries. Although average fish size is 16-18 in., four to six pound salmon are not uncommon.

Lake Trout (Togue) Popular lake trout destinations include larger lakes in the

Allagash River drainage and Eagle and St. Froid Lakes in the Fish River Chain. Most togue waters afford fishing opportunity in both summer and winter seasons. Size averages 3-5 pounds, however, a few fish over 10 pounds are caught each year.

Brown Trout The Meduxnekeag River drainage in the greater Houlton area provides the only opportunity to fish for brown trout in this management region. A self-sustaining population of browns is found in the main branch of the river, whereas hatchery-reared fish provide a popular sport fishery in Drew's Lake. The Fish River Lakes management region is 1 and 1 /3 the size of the state of Con-

necticut. Prior planning should include maps showing all of the updated road systems particularly in the North Maine Woods, Inc. area west of Ashland. Summer visitors to this vast area of private woodlands must pass through a North Maine Woods gate. Information on fee schedules may be obtained by calling their Ashland office at 207-4356213. These gates do not operate in the winter fishing season. Speaking of the winter season, one should consider the Fish River Lakes management region for their ice fishing destination. Snow and ice comes early and stays late in this part of the state. Numerous snowmobile trails afford excellent opportunity to access lakes for fishing trips, or, if the fish aren't biting, to enjoy the beautiful scenery in northern Maine. â&#x20AC;˘

Although Maine 's bountiful lake trout (togue) prefer deep water and cold temperatures, serious togue anglers go after lakers like these in moderate depths right after ice-out in early May. Photo by Bill Cross.

Maine Fish a11rl Wildlife

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BROOK TROUT:

ANEW APPROACH

Maine visitor Bob Swanson proved in 1995 that even before Maine's Quality Fishing Initiative became law, respectable brook trout were there for the patient angler. Early indications are that tougher trout regulations will result in more catches like this four-pound+ beauty. http ://w ww .s tate. me . us/ifw /hom e page . h tm I

by Scott Roy Fisheries Biologist The forests and mountains surrounding Moosehead Lake and the area ranging up through the Allagash Waterway are home to some of the best brook trout fisheries in Maine. But like so many of our once famous fisheries, these waters have suffered declines in fishing quality as access into the Maine woods increased. Improved access brought increased angl ing pressure, thus eliminating the oldest and largest of the brook trout. Ponds that had historically produced large brook trout for the few who got into them , produced small-to-medium size trout for the many who could now drive to within easy walking distance. Over the years , attempts to reverse the decline in trout fishing fell short of the desired results. In most cases, the moderate increases in length limits or decreases in bag limits that were supported at public hearings only temporarily held the line at the level of quality that existed when regulation changes were made. Few fisheries showed any significant recovery to previous levels of fishing quality. The piecemeal pond-by-pond approach to addressing the fishing quality problem was not working. IFW decided to attack the trout quality problem statewide. The key to solving the problem is to return annual harvests to Spri11g 1998

presented at public hearing throughout the state. The new rules became effective in 1994. The Class I waters are those with the greatest potential to produce high quality brook trout fishing. Typically , these have been the most heavily fished trout ponds. On many it was common to have a season 's allowable harvest be removed in a few weeks on either side of Memorial Day Weekend. It took the remainder of the year just to recover to early-spring levels. This scenario did not allow for any improvement in the fishing quality. The new rules seem to be working on these waters. Seasonal use patterns have changed and harvests are being reduced. The results on sc. ,,e ponds has been immediate. In most cases, the spring "slaughter" that was often reported to us by the wardens and concerned anglers has been eliminated. These ponds now provide season-long fishing. The limit of only one trout over 14 inches has already allowed for the improved escapement of older fish. More and more of the populations no longer show the effects of being

within levels that more closely approach historical harvests, permitting the escapement of older larger brook trout. In order to recreate the quality brook trout fisheries of the "good old days", we need regulations that control the catch and reduce the harvest to what was more typical of low use and more remote situations. The fishery biologists in the Moosehead Lake Region are responsible for the management of the fisheries in 127 townships and Moosehead Lake. Within that area, about 400 Great Ponds support brook trout populations. All available information on these waters was reviewed and the ponds were categorized based on their potential to grow brook trout. They were then separated into classes . New class-specific rules were designed to replace a variety of trout pond special regulations with a few easily understood rules. One very important change is the restriction of terminal gear to Artificial Lures Only. Whenever large numbers of fish are handled and released , Artificial Lures Only assures a high level of survival. These were proposed and

cropped off at the legal length limit. Similar results are being reported by anglers from many of the Class II fisheries. In fact , a few Class II fisheries are doing better than expected and will probably be changed to Class I management. Among the Region 's 30 or so Special Regulations are included 5 Catch-and-Release and some 1A inch minimum length waters . These Special Regulations are the most restrictive in the Region. They are expected to have dramatic results on selected waters . To date, all fisheries being followed are showing improvement, either in population abundance or size quality. Reports from voluntary fishing records and box surveys show increasing catch rates and larger fish . Populations that had been "fished down" are recovering. Big trout are again being reported in some of these fisheries . Our follow up of the new trout pond regulations tells us that it is again possible to go to a Maine brook trout pond with the reasonable expectation of catching a 14-18 inch fish ... or be surprised by a once-in-a lifetime whopper!

Brook Trout Pond Categories & New Regulations That Impact Trout Waters In The Moosehead Region Special Regulations (already on the books) - about 30 ponds (±7.5 percent) Class I (2 trout, 12" min. only 1 over14", AL0 1)

Class II (2 trout, 10" min only 1 over 12", AL0 1 ) Class III ( 2 trout, 8" min ALO or FF0 2)

about 40 ponds (+10 percent)

about 115 ponds (±29 percent)

about 5 ponds (±1 percent)

General Law (5 trout, 6" min) - about 210 ponds (±52.5 percent) 1

Artificinl Lures Only

Marn e Fi s h a nd Wildl, fe

)Fly Fishing 011/y

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MAINE

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FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

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ur advertisement to appear listing, contact:

eynolds, Editor nd Wildlife Magazine State Street House Station ME 04333-0041 e: (207) 287-5248

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within levels that more closel approach historical harvests, permitting the escapement of older larger brook trout. In orde to recreate the quality brook tro fisheries of the "good old days", we need regulations that contrc the catch and reduce the harve to what was more typical of low use and more remote situatiom The fishery biologists in the Moosehead Lake Region are responsible for the managemer of the fisheries in 127 township: and Moosehead Lake. Within that area, about 400 Great Ponds support brook trout populations. All available information on these waters was reviewed and the ponds were categorized based on their potential to grow brook trout. They were then separated into classes. New class -specific rulE were designed to replace a variety of trout pond special regulations with a few easily understood rules. One very important change is the restriction of terminal gear to Artificial Lures Only. Whenever large numbers of fish are handled ani released , Artificial Lures Only assures a high level of survival. These were proposed and

Brook Trot That Impact Special Regulations (i Class I (2 trout, 12" mi Class II (2 trout, 10" m Class III ( 2 trout, 8" rr General Law (5 trout,

AINE

S98

FISH AND WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

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FISH AND WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

SPECIAL HALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 yearonly$9 D a years only $18 D Payment enclosed

0 Please bill me later

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ALLAGASH WIL DERNESS OUTFITTERS • Comfo r table housekeepi ng cabins on r emote trout la ke • Wooded cam psites • Shower s , Boats, motors, canoes • Hiking, touring in Baxter State Park · Mt. Katahdin • F ishing, fa ll hunting , Canoe-trip outfi tting, transportation fo r Penobscot, Allagash Rivers , Perfect family vacation!

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Be a Supersport! The extra $15 you pay supports the Maine Fish and Wildlife Department's critical landowner relations program, which insures future recreational access. Residents and nonresidents-hunters, anglers, trappers, guides-can all become Supersports. And even if you don't buy sporting licenses, you can still show your support by purchasing a Supersport certificate. As a 1998 Maine Supersport, you have an opportunity to purchase at cost an exclusive Supersport hat with embroidered Fish and Wildlife Department logo! In addition, several business supporters of the Supersport program are offering the following gift package valued in excess of $50 as their ways of saying "thank you": • From Points North Outfitters in Winthrop-a l 0 % discount on most items in the store (some restrictions apply; check with store) • From the Kittery Trading Post in Kittery-a I 0 % discount on most items • From Van Raymond's Outfitters in Brewer-a $10 gift certificate • From Maine's Northwoods Sporting Journal-a one-year free subscription • From North Maine Woods Association-a $4 gift certificate toward checkpoint fees • From the Maine Fish and Wildlife Department-a free window decal & wildlife report

Maine residents can buy a Supersport license wherever licenses are sold. Nonresident hunters and anglers may buy a Supersport license at the above businesses, or through the mail from:

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife 284 State St., St. Use. Sta. 41 Augusta, ME 04333