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Maine · Fishing
Parkman is a small town in Piscataquis County with three ponds worth putting on your list if you're looking for quiet, accessible lake fishing in central Maine.
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Parkman is a small town in Piscataquis County with three ponds worth putting on your list if you're looking for quiet, accessible lake fishing in central Maine. Mud Pond, Harlow Pond, and Bennett Pond are all lake fisheries, which in this part of Maine typically means you're targeting warmwater and coldwater species depending on the pond and the season. None of these are heavily pressured waters — Parkman doesn't draw the crowds that some of the bigger Moosehead-area lakes do — so if you're after a low-key outing without a lot of boat traffic, this area fits the bill. Access is generally straightforward, and you don't need a big rig to fish any of these ponds. A canoe, kayak, or small aluminum boat will get you where you need to go. Spring and fall tend to be the most productive windows for most Maine lake fishing, and these ponds are no exception. If you're driving up from the coast or coming through on a longer Maine fishing trip, Parkman makes a reasonable stop rather than a full destination — but for locals or anyone camping nearby, these three ponds offer solid options across a short stretch of road.
All three are listed as lake fisheries, which in Maine commonly means species like largemouth or smallmouth bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and potentially brook trout or brown trout depending on the pond's depth and water temperature. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife maintains a lake survey database where you can look up each pond by name to see confirmed species and stocking history before you go.
Yes. Anyone 16 or older needs a valid Maine fishing license to fish any of these waters. You can purchase one online through the Maine DIFW website or at local sporting goods stores and convenience shops in the area. Non-resident licenses are available in both full-season and 15-day formats.
Bennett Pond
~0 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Kennebec River - The Forks
~52 min drive
Moderate
Pingree Pond
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Mud Pond
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Harlow Pond
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Marr Pond
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Foss Pond
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Hilton Ponds
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Dunham Pond
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Big Bennett Pond
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Doe Pond
~17 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Lake Hebron
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near ME.
Ice-out in Piscataquis County typically runs late April into early May, and the weeks immediately following are often the most productive for coldwater species. Bass fishing picks up through June and stays good into September. Fall, particularly September and October, is another strong window before the ponds turn over and water temperatures drop. Midsummer midday fishing tends to slow down as surface temperatures rise.
A medium-light spinning rod handles most situations on small Maine ponds — it works for perch and pickerel on lighter presentations and can handle bass with heavier lures. Bring a selection of soft plastics, small spinners, and live or artificial worms. If you're targeting pickerel specifically, wire leaders are worth having since they'll cut through monofilament. A small boat, canoe, or kayak will open up more of the water, but shore fishing is possible at most Maine ponds with some scouting.
Maine has strong public access traditions, but boat launch locations and parking areas vary by pond. The Maine Boat Launch Finder on the DIFW website lists state-maintained access points and is the most reliable source before you make the drive. Cell service in Parkman can be spotty, so download or print directions and access details before you leave.
