Maine · Fishing
Fishing in Cherryfield, Maine
Cherryfield sits in Washington County at the edge of Maine's Downeast blueberry barrens, and the fishing around town reflects that same unhurried, working-landscape character.
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View on mapFishing · 17 spots
Cherryfield sits in Washington County at the edge of Maine's Downeast blueberry barrens, and the fishing around town reflects that same unhurried, working-landscape character. The Narraguagus River runs right through the center of things, and the Cherryfield Pool is one of the better-known fly fishing spots on the river for Atlantic salmon and brook trout, including sea-run brook trout that push up from tidewater in late summer and fall. That said, most of the 17 fishable spots in this area are ponds and lakes scattered across the surrounding townships — Gassabias Lake, Campbell Lake, Pickerel Lake, Salmon Pond, and a dozen others that see far less pressure than anything closer to Bangor or Bar Harbor. Access varies by water body; some have boat ramps, others require a short carry or a walk. The Narraguagus is the technical centerpiece here, rated hard difficulty and best suited to anglers who already know how to read moving water and present a fly properly. The lake and pond fishing is more forgiving and covers a wider range of skill levels. If you are driving up from away, plan for limited cell service and bring printed maps or download offline topo layers before you leave.
Frequently asked questions
What fish species can I target around Cherryfield?
The Narraguagus River at the Cherryfield Pool holds Atlantic salmon, brook trout, and sea-run brook trout. The surrounding lakes and ponds — including Pickerel Lake, Salmon Pond, Gassabias Lake, and Campbell Lake — support a mix of warmwater and coldwater species typical of Downeast Maine, though specific stocking details for each water body are best confirmed with Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife before your trip.
When is the best time of year to fish the Narraguagus River at Cherryfield?
Sea-run brook trout, locally called salters, typically move into the Narraguagus in late summer through fall as water temperatures drop. Atlantic salmon runs on Maine rivers are generally a fall event as well, though timing shifts year to year with water conditions. Spring can produce good brook trout fishing in the upper river sections, but check current regulations because salmon-specific rules affect what you can target and when.
Is the Cherryfield Pool on the Narraguagus suitable for beginners?
The listing rates it hard difficulty, and that is an honest assessment. Reading the pool, managing line in current, and presenting a fly to Atlantic salmon or sea-run brook trout requires real skill. Beginners will get more out of the area's lake and pond options — Montegail Pond, Anderson Pond, Twentyeight Pond, and others nearby are much more forgiving places to learn.
What gear should I bring for fly fishing the Narraguagus?
For Atlantic salmon on the Narraguagus, most experienced anglers fish a single-hand or switch rod in the 8 to 9 weight range with a sink-tip or floating line depending on water height. For sea-run brook trout, a lighter 5 or 6 weight setup works well. Waders and wading boots with felt or rubber soles are standard; the river bottom can be slippery. Bring a valid Maine fishing license and check current salmon-specific regulations before you rig up, since rules on the Narraguagus can differ from general statewide rules.
Are there good fishing options if I am not a fly angler?
Yes. The majority of waters in this area are lakes and ponds where conventional spinning gear is practical and common. Gassabias Lake, Campbell Lake, Long Pond, Upper Allen Pond, and several others give spin anglers plenty of room to work. Early morning and late evening are typically the most productive windows on still water, especially in warmer months when fish move shallow to feed.
