WRITTEN BY DYLAN SAVAGEAU

Winter settles over Maine, and the lakes turn to glass.  On the ice, a quiet tradition comes alive. There’s a rhythm to it — a pause in the day, the snap of cold air, the quiet stretch of frozen water. Some come for the first time, curious about the tradition of ice fishing; others come back year after year, drawn by habit and memory. Either way, the ice has a way of slowing time, of bringing people together, and of offering a tug on the line that makes the cold worth it. This guide will help you step onto the lake safely, settle in, and find your own place in the season.

Getting Started (The “ice breaker” if you will)

The good news is that ice fishing in Maine is accessible for just about anyone willing to bundle up and embrace the cold. Before heading out, check that the body of water you plan to visit is open to ice fishing, and make sure you have a valid fishing license for anyone over the age of 16. Regulations vary depending on the county and body of water, so it’s always smart to review current rules and daily bag limits online.

Safety comes first. Ice should be at least 4 inches thick before walking on it, 5 to 7 inches for snowmobiles or ATVs, and 8 to 12 inches for small vehicles. Always check the ice, as thickness can vary within just a few feet. A spud bar, ice chisel, or auger is essential for testing ice depth. Carrying ice picks around your neck (to ensure they are immediately accessible if you fall through the ice) and fishing with a buddy is strongly recommended.

Essential Gear for Beginners

You don’t need top-of-the-line equipment to get started — just a few essentials:

  • An ice auger or chisel to drill your fishing holes.
  • A few traps (tip-ups) or a jigging rod. Tip-ups are the wooden or plastic devices that let you fish multiple holes while relaxing nearby waiting to see their indicator (flag) go up, while jigging rods offer a more hands-on experience.
  • Live bait, like nightcrawlers, shiners, or smelts, which can be purchased at most bait shops. Always make sure to check the laws and regulations of the body of water you’ll be fishing, as some don’t allow live bait.
  • A sled or bucket to carry gear, and something to sit on.
  • Warm, waterpoof clothing — layers are your best friend. Avoid cotton, which traps moisture; instead, wear synthetic materials for base layers, along with waterproof gloves and a hat to stay safe and comfortable.

Many first-timers borrow gear or start small with one or two traps and a chisel to break through holes from previous fishermen left from the day before. As you gain experience, you’ll find ways to fine-tune your setup for comfort and success.

Coldwater vs. Warmwater Species

One of the great things about ice fishing in Maine is the variety of species available — each offering a different kind of challenge.

If you’re just looking for a quick catch or something to keep the kids entertained, try for warmwater species like perch, pickerel, or bass. These fish are plentiful, bite more frequently, and make for a fun, active day on the ice.

If you’re after a trophy fish, a great meal — or just enjoy a slow, strategic challenge (a personal favorite of mine) — consider coldwater species such as brook trout (found in both shallow ponds and deeper lakes), rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout (togue), or landlocked salmon. These fish often require a bit more patience and strategy, rewarding anglers who enjoy testing their skills and savoring the thrill of the catch.

Where to Go: Beginner-Friendly Spots

Maine has thousands of lakes and ponds open to ice fishing, and many are perfect for first-timers. A few great places to start include:

  • Pushaw Lake (Penobscot County): A favorite for perch and pickerel, with easy access points and plenty of room to spread out.
  • North Pond (Somerset County): Great for catching white perch and chain pickerel in a quieter setting.
  • China Lake (Kennebec County): Offers a mix of species and a strong local ice-fishing community that’s always welcoming to newcomers.
  • Sebasticook Lake (Penobscot County): Great mix of species and wide, open ice.
  • Worthley Pond (Oxford County): Brookies, browns, rainbows, and some warm water species are all hiding in here.

When choosing your first fishing spot, look for areas with nearby parking, steady ice conditions, and a few other anglers around. Most anglers are happy to share tips with newcomers.

Making the Most of Your Day on the Ice

A big part of ice fishing’s charm is the experience itself, not just the catch. Set up your traps, build a small fire if it’s allowed, and enjoy a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate while you wait. Many anglers bring grills or camp stoves to cook lunch right on the ice — a tradition that turns an ordinary fishing trip into a full winter outing.

Patience pays off. Some days you’ll pull fish after fish; other days, it’s all about the company or the scenery. The stillness of a frozen lake, the sound of the wind through the trees, and the sudden change in your heart rate when you see a flag go up — that’s what makes ice fishing special.

Final Thoughts

Ice fishing might seem rugged, but in truth, it’s one of Maine’s most peaceful and family-friendly winter pastimes. Some of my favorite memories are chasing flags with both of my grandfathers and my parents while growing up in Central Maine. 

With a little preparation, the right gear, and a healthy respect for safety, ice fishing is a pastime that anyone can enjoy. And remember: You’re not just fishing — you’re casting memories that will be told long after the ice is out.