These include the Dennys, East Machias, Machias, Pleasant, Narraguagus, Ducktrap, and Sheepscot rivers and Cove Brook. For more on Atlantic salmon, visit the Web site of the Maine Atlantic Salmon Commission . Landlocked salmon , Maine's official state fish, can get as large as 20 pounds in the cold, deep waters of Maine's large lakes. West Grand Lake has been an excellent source historically, and the Fish River Lakes in Aroostook County consistently offer up good stores of this sleek, silvery prize. Fly fishermen head to the Penobscot River in May, June and September, especially the West Branch, considered by many to be the best landlocked salmon river in the country.
Maine does have a fish consumption warning regarding mercury levels.
Ice fishing , once a necessity during Maine's long winters, is always popularity with visitors, who enjoy the serenity and camaraderie of a day on the ice. Ice fishing shacks, many of which are available for daily rental, are a common sight along Maine's lakes and large rivers, offering the patient fisherman a chance to hook landlocked salmon, whitefish, togue and smelts. There are extensive resources available year-round for Maine fishing. Licenses are easily obtained, as are seasoned outdoor guides who can lead you to hidden fishing spots and help cook up the catch of the day. Many Maine guides offer day trips or week-long excursions for anglers, and with Maine's excellent striper fishing, river trips are becoming even more popular.