Smallmouth Bass Fishing, Native Brook Trout
Fishing & Landlocked Salmon Fishing
in Maine's Katahdin Region

Maine has always been famous for its outstanding fishing opportunities. Trout, salmon, bass, perch, pickerel, lake trout and other species attract the avid angler every year.

The areas around Mt Chase Lodge and Shin Pond are no exception. Upper Shin Pond, where the lodge is located, has a unique structure where brook trout, landlocked salmon and smallmouth bass co-exist in excellent numbers.

The structure of Upper Shin provides a unique habitat for both warm and cold water species.

The north end of the lake has debths of up to 70 feet, with many cold springs, ledges and shelves that harbor landlocked salmon and brook trout. The southern end is somewhat more shallow with a sandy and rocky bottom, creating excellent area for warm water species, such as smallmouth bass and perch. Smelt, a forage fish, abound in the lake as well, providing ample feed for all species that dwell here.

In early spring, about the middle of May, trout and salmon are taken at or near the top by trolling streamer flies and lures. As the summer warms, these fish go deeper to stay in the cooler water. Trout and Salmon prefer about 52 degree water temperatures, and these temps usually are found around 30-40 feet during a normal summer season.

Smallmouth bass, on the other hand, enjoy warmer water, and during the early to late June time period, stay around the shorelines creating and protecting their spawning beds. They can be caught by casting toward shore and reeling back. We have found that a #2 Mepps is a very productive lure for this type of fishing. Bass ranging from 2 yo 3 pounds have been caught right in front of the lodge off our dock as these kids pictures here can attest.

For the fly fisherman, early morning and late afternoon fly hatches can provide for some fast action all summer long with wet or dry flies. The inlets, shoreline, and outlet of Upper Shin Pond are the best areas for the avid fly fisherman.

For those who want further variety of waters, there are many other choices within a short driving distance. The East Branch of the Penobscot River, the Sebois River, Hot Pond, Grand Lake Matagamon, Grand Lake Sebois, Snowshoe Lake, and Hay Brook, are just some of the many choices that one can choose from.

We have boats and motors as well as canoes at the lodge for a nominal rental fee, or guests can bring their own if they prefer. We can launch right at the lodge.

For the first timer, we would suggest investing in a guide for a couple days in order to learn the local techniques of fishing these waters, and to get to know your way around. Guides can do much to add to the enjoyment and experience of your trip, and should be seriously considered in your trip planning.

We are always available to answer questions and give pointers on what to use and where to go for the best chances of catching fish during any time of the season you may want to plan for.

Just ask!

Check out our Fishing Photo Gallery