A Wilderness Lake with Native Trout
Spencer Lake lies deep in the unorganized townships of Somerset County, stretching southward from Fish Pond in Hobbstown Township into T3 R5 BKP WKR. At 1,890 acres and up to 135 feet deep, it is one of the largest and deepest remote lakes in the western mountains of Maine. The surface sits at roughly 1,132 feet above sea level, high enough to keep the water cold through summer and support self-sustaining populations of lake trout and brook trout that have lived here since the last ice age.
There is no town at Spencer Lake. The nearest community of any size is Jackman, about 20 miles to the northeast on Route 201. The lake is reached by a network of unpaved logging roads, and the surrounding landscape is working timberland, dense spruce-fir forest, and bog. It is quiet in a way that most of Maine no longer is. On a weekday in June, you may have the entire lake to yourself.
The water quality at Spencer Lake is exceptional. Secchi disk readings consistently measure among the highest in the state, and the lake bottom is visible at remarkable depths. This clarity is a direct result of the undeveloped watershed and the absence of any significant nutrient inputs.
Swimming
Spencer Lake has no formal beach or designated swimming area. Swimming happens wherever you can get to the water, which in practice means shoreline access near the boat launch or from the gravel and sand margins scattered along the western shore. The water is cold. Even in August, surface temperatures rarely climb above the mid-60s, and the thermocline drops sharply. A quick dip after paddling or fishing is the norm; extended swimming requires tolerance for cold water.
Spencer Lake has no lifeguards, no changing facilities, and no restrooms. The nearest services are in Jackman, roughly 20 miles away on logging roads. Swim at your own risk and never swim alone in remote water.
Boating and Paddling
A gravel boat launch at the north end of Spencer Lake provides access for both trailered boats and hand-carry watercraft. The launch is reached via a two-mile gravel spur road located approximately 11 miles west of Route 201 at Parlin Pond. The road is unpaved and can be rough, especially during mud season in spring. A vehicle with reasonable clearance is strongly recommended.
Spencer Lake is excellent canoe and kayak water. The shoreline is almost entirely undeveloped, and the lake’s irregular shape creates coves, points, and sheltered bays that reward exploration. The north end, where Spencer Lake connects to Fish Pond, is particularly scenic and offers calmer water when wind builds on the main body.
Motorboats are allowed, and the depth and size of the lake can handle them, but the remote access and logging-road approach mean you will not see much powerboat traffic. Most visitors are paddlers or anglers with small boats.
Paddle north from the boat launch into Fish Pond for the best wildlife viewing. The shallow connection between Spencer Lake and Fish Pond concentrates moose, loons, and wading birds. Early morning is the best window.
Fishing
Spencer Lake is a genuine coldwater fishery with native populations of both lake trout and brook trout. These are not stocked fish. The lake trout here are wild, sustained by the deep, cold, oxygen-rich water and an abundant smelt forage base.
| Species | Best Season | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Trout (Togue) | May-June, winter (ice) | Trolling, downriggers, tip-ups | Native population; found in deep water 60-130 ft in summer |
| Brook Trout | May-June, September | Fly fishing, small spinners, worms | Native fish; concentrate near tributary inlets and shallow coves |
| Landlocked Salmon | May (post ice-out), fall | Trolling streamers, light tackle | Present but less abundant than trout; near surface after ice-out |
| Smelt | Winter (ice fishing) | Jigging through the ice | Abundant forage base; supports the trout populations |
Spencer Lake has special fishing regulations that differ from general law. The open water season runs from April 1 through September 30. From August 16 through September 30, only artificial lures or flies may be used. The daily bag limit during the late season is one landlocked salmon and one brook trout. The lake is closed to all fishing from October 1 through March 31, except for ice fishing when the season reopens. Always check the current Maine fishing law book for the latest rules before heading out.
Right after ice-out in early May, lake trout cruise the shallows feeding on smelt. This is your best chance to catch togue on light tackle near the surface. Within a few weeks they retreat to deep water and you need downriggers or lead-core line to reach them. Time your trip around ice-out for the most exciting fishing of the year.
When to Go
Spring
Ice-out typically mid-to-late April. Prime lake trout and brook trout fishing. Logging roads may be impassable during mud season (late April through mid-May). Blackflies arrive late May.
Summer
Best paddling and camping weather. Water remains cold enough for trout. Bugs taper off by late July. Long daylight hours for exploring.
Fall
Spectacular foliage in the surrounding spruce and hardwood forest. Fishing picks up in September before the October closure. Very few visitors.
Winter
Ice fishing for lake trout and smelt. Snowmobile access may be easier than driving. Extremely cold at 1,100+ feet elevation. Come prepared.
Practical Notes
There is no cell service at Spencer Lake. The nearest signal is along Route 201 near Parlin Pond or in Jackman, and even there coverage can be unreliable. Bring everything you need and file a trip plan with someone at home.
The access roads are private logging roads managed by timber companies. They are open to public use but not maintained to highway standards. Expect washboard gravel, mud holes in spring, and minimal signage. Carry a DeLorme Maine Atlas (maps 29 and 39) or preloaded GPS tracks. Do not rely on your phone for navigation.
Primitive camping is possible on the surrounding timberland, but there are no established campgrounds at Spencer Lake. Practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware of logging operations during weekdays. Top off your gas tank before leaving Jackman or the Route 201 corridor.
Spencer Lake Packing List
- Maine fishing license (if fishing)
- Bug spray (essential May through July)
- Warm layers for cool mornings at 1,100+ feet
- Life jackets for all watercraft
- Full tank of gas (no services at the lake)
- DeLorme Maine Atlas or downloaded GPS maps
- Drinking water and food (no stores nearby)
- Rain gear
- Binoculars for wildlife
- Bear-aware food storage if camping
Getting There
From Jackman, head south on Route 201 to the Parlin Pond area. Turn west onto the logging road network and follow it approximately 11 miles to the Spencer Lake boat launch spur road. The final two miles to the launch are on a narrower gravel road. From Portland, the drive takes roughly 4 hours. From Bangor, allow about 2.5 hours to Jackman, plus the logging road approach.
Road conditions vary by season. The logging roads are generally passable from late May through October for most vehicles, though high clearance helps. In spring and after heavy rain, the roads can deteriorate quickly. Check with local outfitters in Jackman for current road conditions before driving in.
FAQ
Is Spencer Lake stocked?
No. Spencer Lake supports wild, self-sustaining populations of lake trout and brook trout. These are native fish that have been in the lake since the last glacial period. The lake also holds landlocked salmon and smelt.
Can I drive a regular car to Spencer Lake?
It depends on conditions. The access is entirely on unpaved logging roads. In dry summer weather, a standard car with decent ground clearance can usually make it. In spring or after rain, a truck or SUV with higher clearance is strongly recommended.
Is there cell service?
No. There is no cell service at Spencer Lake. The nearest signal is along Route 201, roughly 11 miles east. Bring paper maps and tell someone your plans before heading in.
Can I camp at Spencer Lake?
There are no formal campgrounds, but primitive camping is possible on the surrounding timberland. Practice Leave No Trace and be aware that this is private land used for logging operations. Check with timber company land managers if you plan an extended stay.
How deep is Spencer Lake?
The maximum depth is approximately 135 feet, making it one of the deeper lakes in the region. The depth and cold water temperatures support native lake trout year-round.
