Largemouth Bass

Hallowell, Maine, while known for its Kennebec River access, also offers some surprisingly good largemouth bass fishing in the surrounding ponds and backwaters. The Kennebec itself can hold bass, but the smaller, weedy bodies of water just outside of town are where you'll find consistent action. Early summer, after the spawn, and early fall, when the bass are aggressively feeding before winter, are the best times to target them here. Consider exploring the coves and lily pads along the Kennebec or venture to some of the small ponds nearby. Public access varies, so do your research beforehand. A key local tip: Hallowell is upstream from Merrymeeting Bay, where multiple rivers converge. This area can experience significant tidal influence, even in freshwater, so be mindful of the tides and how they affect water levels and fish activity. Bass in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so a variety of lures and techniques can be effective, from topwater frogs to crankbaits and jigs.