Largemouth Bass

Belfast, Maine, offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing, particularly in the numerous smaller lakes and ponds scattered throughout the region. Forget saltwater for a bit; these freshwater havens are where you'll find the bucketmouths. Spring and early summer, post-spawn, are prime times, as the bass are actively feeding to regain energy. Focus on areas with submerged vegetation, rocky points, and fallen trees. Plastic worms, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures are all effective. For shore access, check out the public access points on Lake St. George, a local favorite. A small boat or kayak can greatly expand your fishing options on many of the smaller, less-pressured ponds. The largemouth bass in this part of Maine aren't typically giants, but what they lack in size they make up for in aggression. Be prepared for some exciting topwater action, especially during low-light conditions. Local tip: many of the ponds are relatively shallow, so weedless presentations are often necessary.