The Gateway to Maine’s Classic Wilderness Paddle
Attean Pond is the kind of place that makes people fall in love with the Maine North Woods. Covering roughly 2,800 acres in Attean Township, just west of Jackman in Somerset County, it is a wild, island-studded body of water flanked by mountains and threaded by the Moose River. More than 40 islands dot the pond’s surface, ranging from tiny rock outcrops to Birch Island, which is large enough to support Attean Lake Lodge, a fourth-generation family-run retreat accessible only by boat.
The pond sits at approximately 1,137 feet of elevation with a maximum depth of 55 feet. Two mountains frame the scenery, Attean Mountain (2,242 feet) to the north and Sally Mountain (2,221 feet) to the south. The Moose River enters from the southwest and exits from the northeast corner, connecting Attean Pond to Wood Pond and ultimately to Brassua Lake and Moosehead Lake downstream.
For paddlers, Attean Pond is best known as the starting point of the Moose River Bow Trip, a legendary 34-mile loop that ranks among the finest multi-day canoe routes in the northeastern United States. But even without the Bow Trip, the pond itself offers days of exploration, weaving through islands, fishing for salmon and brook trout, watching moose feed in the shallows at dawn.
On the Water
A boat launch with parking and a dock is located on the southeastern shore, accessed via Attean Road off U.S. Route 201. The launch handles canoes, kayaks, and small motorboats. Note that the access road is privately owned and maintained, and it may be gated during periods of repair or flooding, check conditions before driving out.
Motors are allowed but the character of the pond favors paddling. The islands create a maze of sheltered channels that reward slow exploration. Wind can build across the open stretches, but the islands provide frequent shelter.
The road to Attean Landing is privately owned and may be closed or gated without advance notice, particularly during spring mud season or after heavy rain. Check with local outfitters in Jackman for current road conditions before heading out.
Paddling and the Moose River Bow Trip
The Moose River Bow Trip is a 34-mile circuit that begins at Attean Pond, passes through Holeb Pond, follows the Moose River with brief whitewater sections and a few portages, and returns via Attean Pond. The trip typically takes 3 to 5 days and offers outstanding wildlife viewing, moose sightings are virtually guaranteed, along with Class I-II rapids, remote camping, and the deep quiet of undeveloped forest.
The route is well-suited for intermediate paddlers. The portages are manageable, the rapids are not technical for experienced canoeists, and the campsites along the way are established and maintained by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands.
Start the Bow Trip by paddling west across Attean Pond to the Moose River inlet, then follow the river upstream through the portage to Holeb Pond. This direction puts the current in your favor on the return leg down the Moose River. Most paddlers complete the loop in 3 to 4 days, but taking 5 allows time to explore and fish.
Even without committing to the full Bow Trip, Attean Pond alone offers a full day or more of paddling. The island channels on the western side are particularly scenic, and the views of Attean Mountain from the water are outstanding.
Fishing
Attean Pond’s principal fisheries are landlocked salmon and brook trout. The Moose River tributaries provide spawning habitat, and the pond’s cold, relatively deep water sustains both species through the summer.
Salmon fishing is best in spring after ice-out and again in fall as temperatures drop. Trolling streamers and small spoons around the island points and drop-offs is the standard approach. Brook trout are found near the tributary inflows and along rocky shoreline, particularly in the cooler water near the Moose River inlet and outlet.
The west end of the pond, where the Moose River enters, is consistently productive for brook trout. The inflowing river keeps water temperatures cooler here through summer, and trout stack up near the current. Fly anglers do well with streamers and nymphs in the river mouth area.
A Maine fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Check current regulations for Attean Pond specifically, as special rules may apply.
Camping
Five public campsites are maintained on the east and north shores and at the west end of the pond. These are primitive, backcountry-style sites, expect a fire ring, a clearing, and not much else. The campsite at the far west end features a large beach with beautiful views across the pond and easy boat access.
All campsites are accessible by water only. There is no fee, but camping is first-come, first-served. During peak summer weekends (July 4th, late July, August), the sites can fill, so arriving early on a Friday gives you the best chance.
When to Go
Spring
Ice-out in early to mid-May. Salmon fishing is excellent right after the ice goes. Black flies are fierce from late May through mid-June. The access road may be muddy.
Summer
July and August are the prime paddling months. Warm days, cool nights. Moose are active at dawn and dusk. Bug pressure drops by mid-July. Best time for the Bow Trip.
Fall
September and early October bring spectacular foliage against the mountain backdrop. Fishing improves. Fewer paddlers on the water. Frost begins in September.
Winter
Ice fishing is possible but access is limited. The road to the pond may not be plowed. Snowmobile access is the most reliable option. Extremely cold.
Getting There
From Portland, take the Maine Turnpike (I-95) to Augusta, then Route 201 North through Skowhegan, Solon, The Forks, and into Jackman. The drive is about 3 hours. From Bangor, take I-95 South to Newport, then Route 7/11/16 West through Skowhegan and pick up Route 201 North. About 2 hours and 40 minutes.
In Jackman, take Attean Road (off Route 201) to the boat landing. Jackman has gas, a few restaurants, and general stores. For more extensive supplies, stock up in Skowhegan before heading north.
Attean Pond Packing List
- Canoe or kayak (rentals available in Jackman)
- Life jackets for every paddler
- Fishing license and regulations
- Bug spray and head net (essential late May through mid-July)
- Camping gear if staying overnight (tent, sleeping bag, cook stove)
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Bear bag or hanging line for food storage
- Downloaded maps of the pond and Bow Trip route (no cell service)
- Layers, mornings at 1,100+ feet are cold even in July
- Camera, the moose viewing is exceptional
FAQ
What is the Moose River Bow Trip?
The Moose River Bow Trip is a 34-mile paddling loop that starts at Attean Pond, passes through Holeb Pond, follows the Moose River with Class I-II rapids and portages, and returns via Attean Pond. It is one of the most popular multi-day canoe trips in the northeastern United States and typically takes 3 to 5 days.
Can you camp on Attean Pond?
Yes. Five public backcountry campsites are maintained on the shores of the pond, accessible by water only. They are free and first-come, first-served. The sites are primitive, fire rings and clearings with no other facilities.
What fish are in Attean Pond?
The principal fisheries are landlocked salmon and brook trout. The Moose River system provides spawning habitat, and the pond's cold water sustains both species. Fishing is best in spring after ice-out and again in fall.
Is there cell service at Attean Pond?
No. Cell service is nonexistent at the pond and throughout most of the surrounding area. Download all maps, weather forecasts, and trip information before leaving Jackman. The nearest reliable coverage is in Jackman along Route 201.
How many islands are in Attean Pond?
More than 40 islands dot the pond's surface. They range from tiny rock outcrops to Birch Island, which is large enough to support Attean Lake Lodge. The islands create sheltered paddling channels and are one of the pond's most distinctive features.
