A Little-Known Fishing Spot in Maine That Locals Love

Our gorgeous state of Maine is a haven for fishing. Whether it’s off the coast, in the nearby ocean, or on the vast amount of inland ponds and lakes, there is no shortage of excellent fishing spots in Maine. We're even blessed to be able to fish year-round, and many anglers actually prefer to go ice fishing! If you're one who likes to wait until things thaw out, we have a wonderful, underrated fishing spot for you: Simpson Pond in Roque Bluffs.

Why This Hidden Fishing Spot in Maine Stands Out

Roque Bluffs State Park is a 274-acre state park in Maine that rests on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and thickly wooded coastline are utterly beautiful, and the crisp, fresh air is so invigorating. The park overlooks Englishman's Bay and offers about six miles of hiking trails to enjoy. While many come to enjoy the glacial striations of Roque Bluffs State Park, Simpson Pond, a little-known fishing spot in Maine, often goes overlooked. Most anglers head inland to Lily Bay State Park, one of the most popular fishing spots in Maine. But for those looking to step off the beaten path, Roque Bluffs is the way.

Of course, you can get some great fishing done by taking a boat offshore at the coast, but if we turn around and cross the highway, we’ll find one of the most underrated fishing spots in Maine. Simpson Pond is a very shallow, 21-acre pond that only reaches a depth of five feet, so you’ll need a smaller craft to fish here, but what it lacks in depth it makes up for with some great fishing.

There is a boat launch for those looking to head into Englishman’s Bay. Kayaks and canoes are allowed on Simpson Pond.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Local fishing enthusiasts flock here right after the first thaw of the year to be among the first to reel in brown trout and brook trout. In late May, the pond is restocked with 200 spring yearling brook trout and 75 brown trout.

The placid waters hold brook trout that are anywhere from eight to 15 inches long. You can also catch 15 to 17-inch brown trout, and sometimes larger ones have been caught here.

Bait fishermen like to come here during the fall, and by fishing the little shiners, they help prevent the trout from becoming overcrowded. Plus, the shiners are huge competitors for food in the pond.

What to Know Before You Go

Roque Bluffs State Park is one of Maine’s seasonal state parks and is open from May 15 to October 1. During this season, it’s open every day from 9 a.m. until sunset. There is no camping allowed, and always make sure to practice Leave No Trace principles. Make sure you have your Maine fishing license with you before you drop your line.

Admission to Roque Bluffs State Park is $4 for residents and $6 for non-residents.

As you're fishing, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles in the area. They might just try to steal your fish! Or at the very least, you might get to watch one swoop in and snag a snack from the water.

Whether you’re here in the spring for trout or the fall for shiners, Simpson Pond is one of those hidden lakes in Maine that you keep returning to every year. It's everything you want in a fishing hole: it's remote, it's quiet, and absolutely beautiful. Visit the official website for Roque Bluffs State Park to learn more.

Check out these peaceful getaways in Maine or these hiking trails in Maine for more inspiration.