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Ice Fishing on Moosehead Lake 2026 | Togue, Trout, Derbies, Guides & Regulations

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 4 days ago
  • 5 min read


Ice Fishing on Moosehead Lake 2026 | Togue, Trout, Derbies, Guides & Regulations

Ice Fishing on Moosehead Lake 2026: Ultimate Guide to Togue, Trout, Salmon & Winter Derbies

Moosehead Lake ice fishing in 2026 is shaping up to be another unforgettable winter season in Maine’s legendary North Woods. As the state’s largest lake freezes over, anglers from across New England flock to this iconic destination for togue (lake trout), brook trout, landlocked salmon, cusk, and smallmouth bass—all set against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains and endless wilderness.


From first ice action in late December and early January to last-ice trophy fishing in March and early April, Moosehead Lake delivers some of the best hardwater fishing in the Northeast. Add in major ice fishing derbies, guided trips, and classic Maine hospitality, and it’s easy to see why Moosehead Lake remains a bucket-list winter fishing destination.


What to Expect for the 2026 Moosehead Lake Ice Fishing Season


🎣 Prime Ice Fishing Times

According to local experts at Wilson’s on Moosehead Lake and The Lodge at Moosehead Lake, the most productive fishing typically occurs:


  • First Ice: Late December–early January

  • Mid-Season: January–February (most stable conditions)

  • Last Ice: March–early April (aggressive feeding before ice-out)

Conditions vary year to year, so always check local reports before heading out.


🐟 Target Species

Anglers can expect excellent opportunities for:


  • Lake Trout (Togue) – primary winter target

  • Brook Trout

  • Landlocked Salmon

  • Cusk

  • Smallmouth Bass


Moosehead Lake Ice Fishing Regulations for 2026

📅 Season Dates

  • Ice Fishing Season: January 1 – March 31, 2026


🎫 Fishing License

  • A valid Maine fishing license is required

  • Free Fishing Days (No License Required):

    • February 14–15, 2026

    • May 30–31, 2026


👉 Licenses & regulations:


⚖️ Bag Limits & Rules


  • Togue (Lake Trout):

    • Daily bag limit: 5 fish

    • Only 1 fish over 18 inches


  • Landlocked Salmon:

    • Must be released alive before February 15


  • Lines Allowed:

    Maximum of 5 lines per angler


  • Bait Restrictions:

    • No live fish as bait (North Zone)

    • Dead bait, worms, artificial lures, and flies permitted


  • Ice Shacks:

    • Must be removed by March 31 or ice-out

    • Owner’s name & address required in 2-inch lettering


Major Moosehead Lake Ice Fishing Events – 2026


🏆 19th Annual Moosehead Lake Togue Derby

Dates: February 6–8, 2026

Times:

  • Starts: 12:01 AM Friday

  • Ends: 4:00 PM Sunday

Species: Lake Trout (Togue) onlyPrizes:

  • 🥇 1st Place: $1,500

  • 🥈 2nd Place: $500

  • 🥉 3rd Place: $250

  • Door prizes & youth drawings

Weigh Stations:

  • Bartley Event Center – Greenville

  • Moosehead Bait & Tackle – Rockwood

More Info:


🚒 Greenville Fire Department 5th Annual Moosehead Lake Fishing Derby

Dates: February 27 – March 1, 2026

Times:

  • 6:00 AM Friday – 12:00 PM Sunday

Location: Moosehead LakeTickets: Available via Eventbrite


This popular community derby supports the Greenville Fire Department and attracts families, locals, and visiting anglers alike.


Event Info & Updates:

Ice Conditions & Safety on Moosehead Lake

Safety is critical on Maine’s largest lake.


🧊 Ice Safety Guidelines

  • Minimum ice thickness: 4 inches (more for snowmobiles & vehicles)

  • Always test ice with an auger or chisel

  • Wear ice cleats, flotation gear, and carry ice picks

  • Use sleds to distribute weight


⚠️ Known Hazard Areas

Exercise extreme caution near:


  • Kennebec River outlet

  • Mile Light area

  • Island channels and pressure cracks

Ice thickness can vary dramatically—even within short distances.


Guided Ice Fishing Trips on Moosehead Lake

If you’re new to ice fishing or unfamiliar with Moosehead Lake, hiring a guide is highly recommended.


🎣 Northwoods Outfitters – Greenville

  • Fully guided ice fishing trips

  • Heated shanties, gear provided

  • Ideal for beginners and families


🎣 Reel Moosehead Guide Service

  • Full-day guided trips

  • Equipment, meals, and local expertise included

  • Excellent for trophy togue and salmon


📌 Tip: Booking early may lock in previous-season pricing.


Local Resources & Ice Conditions


In Closing: Why 2026 Is the Year to Ice Fish Moosehead Lake

With strong trout populations, multiple derbies, experienced guides, and unmatched winter scenery, ice fishing on Moosehead Lake in 2026 promises one of the best seasons yet. Whether you’re chasing a derby-winning togue, introducing kids to ice fishing, or enjoying a quiet day in a heated shack surrounded by wilderness, Moosehead Lake delivers an authentic Maine winter experience that’s hard to beat.


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.


Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:

  • 🛶 Boating & paddling routes

  • 🎣 Fishing hotspots

  • 🏕️ Wilderness camping sites

  • 🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks

  • 🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure


Rockwood Maine Lodging • Moosehead Lake Cabin Rentals

Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway dual access for trailers, boats, ATVs, & snowmobiles

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

  • Perfect home base for skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, and wildlife watching


Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in Moose River, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River









Plan ahead, fish responsibly, and enjoy one of Maine’s premier ice fishing destinations.

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