Big Water in Maine’s North Woods
Schoodic Lake covers 7,021 acres across the townships of Lake View Plantation, Brownville, and T4 R9 NWP in Piscataquis County. With 32.5 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 188 feet, it is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the region, and one of the finest togue (lake trout) fisheries in the northeastern United States.
The lake sits in the transition zone between the settled river valleys of central Maine and the wild North Woods. The eastern shore has a scattering of camps and year-round homes in Lake View Plantation, while the western and northern shores are largely undeveloped forest. It is big enough to feel remote even from the more populated eastern coves, and on a weekday morning you can run a boat for miles without seeing another soul.
Moosehead Lake gets the attention, but Schoodic Lake, about 30 miles to the southeast, offers a similar North Woods experience at a fraction of the size and traffic.
On the Water
Schoodic Lake is serious water. At over 7,000 acres, it is large enough to generate significant waves in a strong wind, and the afternoon westerlies that blow across the open stretches can make for rough conditions in a small boat. Plan your time on the water accordingly, especially if you are in a canoe or kayak.
A public boat launch on the eastern shore provides access for motorboats, sailboats, and paddlecraft. The launch is paved with adequate parking for trucks and trailers. A second, more informal launch point exists on the northern end.
For paddlers, the sheltered coves along the western shore offer protected water even when the main lake is choppy. The shoreline is a mix of rocky points, sandy stretches, and wooded banks. Loons, bald eagles, and great blue herons are common along the undeveloped sections.
Swimming is possible in the shallows, though the water is cold. Schoodic Lake’s depth means the surface warms slowly, and even in August the deep water stays frigid. The sandy beaches in the shallow coves on the eastern shore are the warmest spots.
Fishing
Schoodic Lake is a destination fishery for togue (lake trout). The deep, cold, well-oxygenated water provides ideal habitat, and the fish grow large here. Togue in the 5- to 10-pound range are common, with occasional fish exceeding 15 pounds.
Landlocked salmon are the other premier coldwater species. They run smaller than the togue but fight harder pound for pound. Brook trout, smallmouth bass, white perch, and cusk round out the fishery.
Spring is the premier fishing season. After ice-out in late April or early May, togue and salmon move into the upper water column and can be taken by trolling at moderate depths. As the surface warms, the coldwater species drop deeper. Summer fishing requires downriggers or lead-core line to reach fish at 50 to 80 feet.
Fall turnover in October brings the togue back to fishable depths and produces some of the biggest fish of the year. Ice fishing is also productive, with togue, perch, and cusk the main targets through the winter.
The drop-offs and underwater ledges along the western shore are the most productive structure for togue. A good fish finder and knowledge of the lake bottom contours make a significant difference. If you do not have electronics, focus on the points that jut into deep water and troll along the depth transitions.
Schoodic Lake togue respond well to trolled smelt-pattern streamers on lead-core line in May and June. The local guides fish Gray Ghosts and Black Ghosts at 30 to 50 feet during this window and consistently produce quality fish. If you are new to the lake, a half-day guided trip is money well spent.
When to Go
Spring
Ice-out fishing for togue and salmon. Cool air, few visitors. Black flies arrive in late May.
Summer
Warmest weather for boating and swimming. Fishing requires deeper presentations. Afternoon winds can be strong.
Fall
October turnover brings togue back to the surface. Foliage along the shoreline. Quiet and uncrowded.
Winter
Reliable ice fishing for togue, perch, and cusk. The lake freezes solid. Dress for serious cold.
Practical Notes
Lake View Plantation is a small, unincorporated township with limited services. There is no gas station, grocery store, or restaurant in the immediate area. Plan to stock up in Brownville, Milo, or Dover-Foxcroft before heading to the lake.
Cell service is spotty. You may get a signal near the eastern shore and in Lake View Plantation, but coverage is unreliable on the water and along the western shore.
There are several private sporting camps on Schoodic Lake that offer lodging, boat rentals, and guided fishing. These are the best option for visitors who want local knowledge and a place to stay on the water.
Packing List
Schoodic Lake Trip
- Fishing license and current regulations
- Life jackets for every person on the boat
- Full fuel tank (no fuel available at the lake)
- Food and water for the day (no services nearby)
- Bug spray May through July
- Rain gear and warm layers
- Fish finder (helpful for togue fishing)
- Anchor for fishing specific structure
- Downloaded maps and charts (spotty cell service)
Getting There
From Bangor, take I-95 north to the Brownville/Milo exit, then Route 11 north through Brownville Junction to Lake View Plantation. The drive is about an hour. From Portland, take I-95 north to the same exit, about 3.5 hours. The public boat launch is well-signed in Lake View Plantation on the eastern shore.
The roads are paved to the boat launch. No gravel roads required for basic access, which makes Schoodic Lake more approachable than many North Woods destinations of similar remoteness.
FAQ
How big is Schoodic Lake?
7,021 acres with 32.5 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 188 feet. It is one of the larger lakes in Piscataquis County.
What is Schoodic Lake best known for?
Togue (lake trout) fishing. The deep, cold water provides ideal habitat, and the fish grow large. It is considered one of the best togue lakes in the northeastern United States.
Is there a public boat launch?
Yes. A paved public launch on the eastern shore in Lake View Plantation provides access for boats of all sizes.
Is Schoodic Lake near Moosehead Lake?
Schoodic Lake is about 30 miles southeast of Moosehead Lake. They share a similar North Woods character, but Schoodic is smaller and sees far less traffic.
Can I camp at Schoodic Lake?
There are no public campgrounds directly on the lake, but several private sporting camps offer lodging and boat access. Nearby state-managed areas have primitive camping options.
For more in the region, see our guides to Moosehead Lake and Gulf Hagas.
