The Far North
Cross Lake sits deep in northern Aroostook County, part of the Fish River chain of lakes that defines this remote corner of Maine. At 2,472 acres, it is a substantial body of water surrounded by working forest, with Route 161 following the northeast shore and scattered camps along the east side. The south end of Cross Lake overflows through the Square Lake Thoroughfare into Square Lake, about half a mile away, connecting it to the larger chain.
Getting here takes commitment. Fort Kent, the nearest town of any size, is about 20 miles north, on the Canadian border at the confluence of the Fish and St. John Rivers. From Portland, the drive is six hours. From Bangor, three and a half. This is not a day trip destination. This is where you go to fish, paddle, and be genuinely far away from everything.
The Fish River chain includes Cross Lake, Square Lake, Eagle Lake, Long Lake, and Mud Lake, linked by thoroughfares and streams. Together they form one of the most productive cold water fisheries in the Northeast, protected in part by a 17,000-acre conservation easement on surrounding forestland.
On the Water
A public boat launch and picnic area on the southeast shore provides free access. The ramp handles small to mid-sized boats, and parking is available. Route 161 provides road access along the northeast side of the lake.
Motorboats are permitted, and some anglers run larger boats to cover the water. But on any given summer day, you may see only a handful of other boats. The lake absorbs visitors easily because there are so few of them.
Kayaking and canoeing are excellent. The thoroughfare to Square Lake is a classic paddle, and exploring the coves and marshy inlets along the west shore rewards those who move slowly. Moose, loons, and bald eagles are common sights.
Paddle the Square Lake Thoroughfare at the south end for a scenic connection to Square Lake. The current is gentle, the banks are wooded, and wildlife sightings are nearly guaranteed. Bring binoculars.
Fishing
Cross Lake is a cold water fishery. Brook trout are the native headliner, and the Fish River chain is one of the best brook trout destinations in Maine. Fish in the 1 to 2 pound range are standard, with larger fish taken from the deeper water and from the tributary streams.
Landlocked Atlantic salmon are stocked by MDIFW and provide additional cold water action. Cusk (freshwater burbot) are present in the deeper water and targeted by some ice anglers.
Yellow perch round out the catch and provide easy fishing for families and beginners.
The best fishing is in spring, after ice-out in mid to late May. Salmon and brook trout cruise the shallows, hitting streamer flies and small spoons near the surface. Summer pushes fish deeper, and fall brings another window of shallow-water activity as the lake cools.
The inlet streams that feed Cross Lake hold wild brook trout. Bring a fly rod and a selection of small nymphs and dry flies. Walk upstream from where the tributaries enter the lake and fish the pools and riffles. This is classic Aroostook brook trout water, and you may not see another angler.
A Maine fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. The nearest tackle and supplies are in Fort Kent. License available online at the MDIFW website.
Cross Lake is remote. The nearest hospital is in Fort Kent, about 20 miles away. Cell service is spotty at best. Bring a first aid kit, extra fuel, food, and water. Let someone know your plans before heading out.
When to Go
Spring
Ice-out in mid to late May. Brook trout and salmon in the shallows. Blackflies intense in June.
Summer
Fish go deep in warm weather. Long daylight hours. Excellent paddling and wildlife viewing.
Fall
Fish return to shallows. Foliage over the boreal forest. Nights get cold early this far north.
Winter
Ice fishing for cusk, trout, and perch. Deep cold. Snowmobiling on the ITS trail system.
Practical Notes
Cell service is spotty. You may get a signal along Route 161 on the east shore, but coverage on the water and the west side is unreliable. Download everything before leaving Fort Kent.
The lake is dog-friendly. No restrictions at the boat launch or along the shoreline.
Swimming is possible but the water stays cool even in summer. Surface temperatures reach the mid-60s in July and August. The shoreline has sandy and gravel spots.
Cross Lake Packing List
- Fishing license and full tackle setup
- Bug spray and head net (June is brutal)
- Life jackets
- Full tank of gas (limited services)
- Food, water, and snacks for a full day
- First aid kit
- Downloaded maps and regulations
- Layers for cool mornings and evenings
- Fly rod for tributary brook trout
Getting There
From Fort Kent, take Route 161 South. The lake is about 20 miles south of town, and the road follows the northeast shore. From Bangor, take I-95 North to Houlton, then Route 11 North to Fort Kent, then Route 161 South. About 3.5 hours. From Portland, add another 2.5 hours via I-95.
Fort Kent has gas, groceries, restaurants, and lodging. Stock up before heading south to the lake.
FAQ
What is the Fish River chain of lakes?
The Fish River chain includes Cross Lake, Square Lake, Eagle Lake, Long Lake, and Mud Lake in northern Aroostook County. They are connected by thoroughfares and streams, forming one of the best cold water fisheries in the Northeast.
What fish are in Cross Lake?
Brook trout (native), landlocked Atlantic salmon (stocked), cusk, and yellow perch. The brook trout fishing is the primary draw, both in the lake and in tributary streams.
How remote is Cross Lake?
Very. It is about 20 miles south of Fort Kent, 3.5 hours from Bangor, and 6 hours from Portland. Cell service is spotty and services are limited.
Can you paddle to Square Lake from Cross Lake?
Yes. The Square Lake Thoroughfare at the south end of Cross Lake connects to Square Lake, about half a mile away. It is a scenic paddle with gentle current.
When does the ice go out on Cross Lake?
Typically mid to late May, sometimes into early June. This far north, spring comes late. Ice-out triggers the best fishing of the year.