A Native Salmon Lake Outside Ellsworth
Green Lake straddles the line between Ellsworth and Dedham in Hancock County, just off the busy corridor that funnels traffic toward Acadia. It is a big, deep, clear lake with a perimeter of nearly 28 miles dotted with inlets and islands. The depth is the headline number: Green Lake plunges to about 170 feet, with a mean depth around 44 feet, which keeps the cold-water fish thriving through Maine summers.
What sets Green Lake apart is its pedigree. It is one of the original native homes of landlocked salmon in Maine and one of only a handful of waters where landlocked salmon and Arctic charr occurred naturally. The Green Lake National Fish Hatchery sits on the shore, part of the federal Atlantic salmon restoration program that raises smolts for Gulf of Maine rivers. For anglers and paddlers, all of that history adds up to a clean, productive lake with real character and an easy drive from Bangor or Ellsworth.
Wildlife & bird watching
Fishing
Green Lake is a premier cold-water fishery. Landlocked salmon are the signature catch, and the state actively manages the lake to grow bigger fish. Soon after ice-out, salmon cruise the surface chasing smelt, and trolling streamers or smelt imitations is the classic spring approach. As the water warms, the salmon and the lake trout drop into the depths and anglers follow them down.
Lake trout, or togue, are the other major draw, holding deep through the summer and best reached by trolling lead-core line or jigging the deep basins. The lake also supports brook trout, smallmouth bass for the warm-water crowd, and white and yellow perch. Rainbow smelt are the backbone of the forage base and a winter target. Always check the current Maine fishing regulations for this water, since Green Lake carries special management rules.
Green Lake’s salmon and togue feed heavily on rainbow smelt. In spring, troll thin silver and gold streamers and smelt-pattern lures near the surface where the salmon are chasing bait. As summer sets in, switch to deep trolling or jigging over the basins to reach fish holding in the cold layer.
Paddling and Swimming
The clear water, wooded shores, and scattered islands make Green Lake a fine paddle, but as with most big Maine lakes, wind is the deciding factor. The long fetch can build a real chop by afternoon, so launch early and stick to the protected shoreline and coves if a breeze is up. Exploring the inlets and circling the islands can fill a full day, with loons and eagles for company.
Swimming is excellent in the cold, clean water. The shallows near the launch warm enough for comfortable swimming by midsummer, while the deeper water stays bracing. There is no formal beach, so swimmers use informal spots along the shore.
The public boat launch was recently upgraded, giving improved trailer access for the lake’s many anglers. It is the standard put-in for both fishing boats and paddlers. Because the lake is large and open, check the wind forecast before planning a long route on the water.
Getting There
Green Lake lies between Ellsworth and Dedham, reached off Route 1A. From Bangor, drive east on Route 1A toward Ellsworth and watch for the Green Lake and hatchery turnoffs, roughly a 40-minute trip. From Ellsworth, head west on Route 1A a short distance to the lake roads.
The boat launch and the Green Lake National Fish Hatchery are both signed off the local roads near the lake. Program your route in advance, since cell service drops off away from the main highway.
When to Visit
Spring
Ice-out brings salmon to the surface for the year's best fishing. Cool, often buggy, but the action is worth it.
Summer
Warm shallows for swimming and bass; salmon and togue hold deep. Launch early to beat afternoon wind.
Fall
Cooling water draws cold-water fish back up. Quiet paddling and good foliage along the shore.
Winter
Ice fishing for salmon, togue, and smelt when ice is safe. Confirm conditions before going out.
Spring just after ice-out is the season serious anglers wait for, with salmon feeding near the surface. Summer is best for swimming and for paddlers who get on the water early. Fall offers quiet water, cool air, and renewed cold-water fishing.
Packing List
Green Lake Trip
- Kayak or canoe with PFDs
- Maine fishing license
- Smelt-pattern lures and deep-trolling tackle
- Binoculars for loons and eagles
- Sunscreen and a windbreaker
- Bug spray (spring and early summer)
- Drinking water and food (no services at the launch)
- Wind forecast checked before a long paddle
FAQ
How deep is Green Lake?
Green Lake reaches a maximum depth of about 170 feet, with a mean depth near 44 feet. The deep, cold, clear water supports its salmon and lake trout fishery.
What fish are in Green Lake?
Green Lake holds landlocked salmon, lake trout (togue), brook trout, and smallmouth bass, along with white and yellow perch and rainbow smelt. It is one of Maine's few native landlocked salmon waters.
Is there a fish hatchery at Green Lake?
Yes. The Green Lake National Fish Hatchery sits on the shore and is part of the federal Atlantic salmon restoration program, raising smolts for Gulf of Maine rivers.
Is there a boat launch at Green Lake?
Yes. The public boat launch was recently upgraded and offers improved trailer access for anglers and paddlers.
Where is Green Lake located?
Green Lake is in Hancock County between Ellsworth and Dedham, just off Route 1A and about 40 minutes east of Bangor.
