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Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish are native to Maine and belong to the salmon family Salmonidae.

These long-lived fish currently occur in at least 52 lakes across five MDIFW management regions, with populations concentrated in headwater lakes of the Allagash and Penobscot River drainages in north-central Maine, and the St.

Croix drainage in Washington County. The species has experienced significant declines, with only 45 waters supporting self-sustaining populations.

Scientific Name: Coregonus clupeaformis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their small adipose fin, silvery sides with dark backs, large scales, and distinctly shaped snout that overhangs the lower jaw.
  • These fish typically reach 14-20 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds, though they can grow to 25 inches and over 6 pounds - Maine's record is 7 pounds 8 ounces from Sebago Lake in 1958.
  • Some Maine lakes contain unique 'dwarf' populations where adults only reach 6-8 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Populations concentrated in headwater lakes of the Allagash and Penobscot River drainages in north-central Maine, and the St.
  • Croix drainage in Washington County.

Key Locations

  • Major whitefish waters include the Allagash River drainage lakes (Churchill Lake, Big Eagle Lake, Clear Lake, Ross Lake) and the Grand Lake region (West Grand Lake, East Grand Lake).
  • Prime whitefish waters for ice fishing include the Allagash drainage lakes like Churchill Lake (3,720 acres), Big Eagle Lake (9,500 acres), and the Musquacook lakes, as well as Sebago Lake in southern Maine.
  • The Fish River Lakes region, particularly waters like Eagle Lake and St.
  • Froid Lake, also provides opportunities.

Specific Spots

  • They are typically found in groups near the lake bottom in depths of 30-60 feet.
  • Target areas with clean, rocky bottoms near deep water drop-offs where whitefish typically school.

Lake Whitefish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Lake Whitefish in Maine?

Small streamers, nymphs, and dry flies matching local hatches can work during rare surface-feeding opportunities.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Whitefish in Maine?

Best fishing occurs during stable winter weather with consistent ice conditions, typically from January through early March when ice is thickest and safest.

How do you catch Lake Whitefish in Maine?

Vertical jigging with small copper jigs. Open water fishing is more challenging but possible through vertical jigging during summer months, though results vary and few anglers pursue this method.

What do Lake Whitefish eat?

Larval whitefish feed on zooplankton, while juveniles transition to bottom-dwelling species like snails, insect larvae, clams, and midge larvae. Larger whitefish often feed on smelts where available, and they're known to feed on emerging mayflies and midges in late June and July.

Where do Lake Whitefish live in Maine?

Populations concentrated in headwater lakes of the Allagash and Penobscot River drainages in north-central Maine, and the St. Croix drainage in Washington County.

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