WRITTEN BY KATIE BINGHAM-SMITH
When the snow melts and the weather warms up, is there anything better than heading out to one of Maine’s lakes or rivers or spending a day by the ocean? From extreme water sports to a lazy day on the river, Maine has something for everyone and you won’t leave disappointed. Here are some of the best ways to get out on the water this time of year.
BOATING
Head out for a few hours with nothing but fresh Maine air and your kayak or canoe. With so many places to put in that offer tranquility and beautiful views, it’s hard to choose just one place to visit.
DUCK LAKE PUBLIC LANDS: With over 27,000 acres of forested land, Duck Lake has lots of water to paddle on as well as primitive camping. Located in northern Hancock County, 70 miles northeast of Bangor, Duck Lake, the Unknown Lakes, and Gassabias Lake offer lots to do and explore, including swimming, wildlife watching, canoeing, camping, motorized boating, fishing, and ATV riding.
FIELDS POND AUDUBON CENTER: Located seven miles southeast of Bangor in Holden, Fields Pond Audubon Center features a 191-acre pond, plus a large sanctuary with trails that take you in and out of wetland, trails, fields, forest, and lakefront. There are many programs offered year-round as well as day camps for children. The pond has a public boat launch area, ideal for launching canoes and kayaks. The sanctuary is free and open to everyone year round.
PUSHAW LAKE: Close to Bangor, Pushaw Lake is a popular place to boat, kayak, and canoe. It’s a long and narrow lake that’s fairly developed with homes and camps with some quiet spots along the north end near Hudson. There are some nice big islands you can paddle to as well as lots of wildlife to see. There are no fees for boating on the lake, but there are fees for the commercial campground.
FISHING
Whether you’re an avid angler or a newcomer to the sport, there’s an endless number of spots around the state to cast a line. Just remember, everyone over the age of 16 needs a Maine fishing license — and be sure to check the current Maine Open Water & Ice Fishing Laws first.
SWAN LAKE: Waldo County’s Swan Lake can accommodate your every need. This body of water has a plethora of fish, including brook trout, bass, lake trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Swan Lake State Park also has a great area to swim, with a lifeguard, picnic sites, grills, shelters sites, and games.
PENOBSCOT RIVER: With hundreds of miles of water, the Penobscot River now has lots of game fish species, including brook trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth bass, white perch. The river is accessible in many areas of the state, but if you’re looking to fish and paddle in a quieter area, try the east branch of the Penobscot, northeast of Millinocket.
RAFTING & TUBING
Whether you crave the excitement of riding the rapids or prefer a leisurely float, Maine has plenty of river riding fun.
KENNEBEC RIVER: Kennebec River is 170 miles long, running south from Moosehead Lake. It offers some of the best whitewater rafting in Maine. Whether you’re a beginner or want a class IV adventure, there’s something for everyone.
In addition, Kennebec River Tube Rentals through Three Rivers Whitewater offers tube rentals for those looking for a more relaxing adventure on the water. (Tip: Reserve an extra tube to carry a cooler for drinks and snacks.) Beginning at The Forks, the tubing trip typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, and a shuttle will take you back to their base.
DEAD RIVER: At only 43 miles long, Dead River packs an adventurous punch. It has the longest track of whitewater on the east coast. You can schedule a river tour, but must be at least 12 years of age.
THE FORKS: Located 18 miles north of Bingham on Route 201, The Forks is where the Dead River and The Kennebec River intersect. Many people crave the adrenaline rush of this incredible rafting experience which is one of the most popular places to raft in Maine.