A Hill-Ringed Lake Above Rumford
Roxbury Pond, also known as Ellis Pond and sometimes Silver Lake, is a 919-acre glacial lake in the towns of Roxbury and Byron in Oxford County. It sits at about 810 feet of elevation in the western mountains, north of Rumford, ringed by the wooded hills that define this part of Maine. The lake reaches roughly 43 feet at its deepest, deep enough to hold trout while the shallows stay friendly for warm-water fish and swimmers.
The lake has a couple of islands that give it character, the larger named French Island, plus a few small islets. One of those islets is known informally as Loony Island because loons nest there, and the loons are part of what makes a paddle here memorable. This is quiet, off-the-beaten-path water in a region better known for its bigger Rangeley-area lakes, which means Roxbury Pond stays relatively low-key even in summer.
Wildlife & bird watching
Paddling
Roxbury Pond is a pleasant paddle for canoes and kayaks, with the surrounding hills giving every direction a scenic backdrop. The islands break up the open water and make natural destinations, and circling French Island or drifting past the loon islet fills an easy outing. The mountain setting and the relative quiet make this a satisfying flatwater paddle without the crowds you find on the larger lakes nearby.
Like any open lake in the mountains, Roxbury Pond can catch wind funneling through the hills, so paddle in the morning when conditions are usually calmest and keep an eye on the loons and waterfowl as you go. The undeveloped stretches of shore are the most rewarding to explore.
Loons nest on the small islets here, including the one locals call Loony Island. Give nesting birds a wide berth, especially in early summer, and watch from a distance with binoculars rather than paddling close. It keeps the birds on their nests and gives you a better look anyway.
Fishing
Roxbury Pond offers a varied fishery thanks to its mix of deep and shallow water. Brook trout and brown trout provide the cold-water fishing, best in spring and fall when the trout hold in reachable water near the cooler depths and inlets. Both smallmouth and largemouth bass give the warm-water angler steady action around the rocky structure and weedy coves through the summer.
The pond also holds yellow perch, white perch, chain pickerel, and black crappie, which add up to easy, fun fishing on light tackle and make it a good spot to get a beginner into fish. The varied bottom and the islands create plenty of structure to work. Check the current Maine regulations before you fish.
The pond’s public boat launch is the main access point, and from there you can reach the islands and the quieter shoreline within a short paddle. Stock up in Rumford or Mexico before you head up, since this is rural country with limited services close to the water.
Getting There
Roxbury Pond is in Roxbury, north of Rumford in the western mountains. From Rumford and Mexico, head north on Route 17 toward Byron and Roxbury, the scenic route that also passes Coos Canyon on the Swift River, then follow local roads to the pond. From Portland, take Route 26 and Route 17 north, a drive of a little over two hours.
The public boat launch is reached by local roads off Route 17. Watch your turns and program the route ahead of time, since cell service is spotty in this mountainous, rural stretch of Oxford County.
When to Visit
Spring
Ice-out usually in late April or May. Trout fishing is best near the surface. Black flies build through May and June in the mountains.
Summer
Warm shallows for swimming, good bass fishing, and calm-morning paddling among the islands and loons.
Fall
Cool air, renewed trout activity, and superb mountain foliage. One of the prettiest times to paddle here.
Winter
Ice fishing for trout, bass, and perch when ice is safe. Mountain conditions demand preparation.
Summer is the best all-around season, with warm water and calm mornings for paddling. Spring and fall favor trout anglers, and fall brings the western mountains’ excellent foliage. Bring bug protection from ice-out into early summer.
Packing List
Roxbury Pond Trip
- Canoe or kayak with PFDs
- Maine fishing license
- Tackle for trout and bass
- Binoculars for loons and waterfowl
- Bug spray (May and June especially)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Drinking water and food (limited services nearby)
- Downloaded map (cell service is spotty)
FAQ
Is Roxbury Pond the same as Ellis Pond?
Yes. Roxbury Pond is also called Ellis Pond, and sometimes Silver Lake. It is a 919-acre glacial lake in Roxbury and Byron, Oxford County.
How deep is Roxbury Pond?
Roxbury Pond reaches a maximum depth of about 43 feet and sits at roughly 810 feet of elevation in the western mountains. The depth supports trout while the shallows hold warm-water fish.
What fish are in Roxbury Pond?
The pond holds brook and brown trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, yellow and white perch, chain pickerel, and black crappie, giving anglers both cold-water and warm-water options.
Are there loons on Roxbury Pond?
Yes. Loons nest on the small islets, including one locals call Loony Island. Give nesting birds a wide berth, especially in early summer.
Where is Roxbury Pond located?
Roxbury Pond is in Roxbury, Oxford County, north of Rumford in the western mountains, reached via Route 17. It is a little over two hours from Portland.
