Bar Harbor Fishing Trips: The Ultimate Trip for Adventure Seekers

Fishing trips are a fantastic way to slow down and connect with nature, whether that’s on a lake, river, or out on the ocean. Bar Harbor is surrounded by excellent fishing opportunities in all three settings, making it a very versatile fishing destination. Whether you want to fish for trout in nearby lakes or head offshore for some deep water fishing, you can do it all in the Bar Harbor Area. Being surrounded by beautiful forests, breathtaking cliffs, and open-ocean views only enhances the experience. Continue reading for a guide to some of the best fishing spots and where to stay for the ultimate Bar Harbor fishing trip for adventure seekers.

Fishing in Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island

Bar Harbor is often referred to as the gateway to Acadia National Park, making this park a can’t-miss spot for Bar Harbor fishing trips. From Bar Harbor, you are just minutes from Acadia’s gorgeous natural scenery and incredible fishing opportunities. A fishing trip in Acadia blends coastal access with calm inland waters and the rare chance to experience saltwater and freshwater in one place. With this, one of the highlights of fishing here is the huge variety of fish that you can catch.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater Fishing in Acadia National Park

Freshwater fishing in Acadia National Park includes targeted species like smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, brook trout, lake trout, and salmon. The best times for trout and salmon fishing in Bar Harbor occur in spring and fall. Acadia National Park’s ponds, such as Eagle Lake, Jordan Pond, and Long Pond, are excellent for freshwater fishing. Brook trout are found in streams like Stanley Brook, though they are often small (2-4 inches).

Along the coast, saltwater fishing opens up opportunities for striped bass, mackerel, cod, haddock, and pollock. Late spring through early fall is the prime season for ocean fishing, with dawn and dusk being ideal times when fish are more active and feeding closer to shore. No matter if you decide to fish in the lakes, ponds, rivers, or ocean, what makes Acadia National Park a great fishing destination is the scenery that you can enjoy. Between casts, you can visit scenic overlooks, spot wildlife, and view some pretty unique natural features.

Whether you want to fish at sunrise and experience quiet, secluded moments at the lake, or end the day watching the stunning sunset over the Atlantic, Acadia National Park is home to fishing trips that are just as much about nature, connection, and scenery as they are catching fish.

Fishing Charters and Lobster Fishing Out of Bar Harbor

If you want to switch up your fishing trip, taking a charter boat out of Bar Harbor is an exciting way to do it. On a fishing boat charter, you can experience Maine’s coastline from beyond the shore on your search for some of the reigon’s most sought-after fish. Charters typically range from a half-day trip near the coast, to a full-day offshore adventure. These trips are also led by experienced captains who know exactly where you’ll have the best chance at getting a bite. Depending on the season, the Bar Harbor area is known for striped bass, cod, pollock, and mackerel. If you take a day trip out to deeper water, you may also get to fish for Atlantic bluefin tuna.

In addition to the fish, the scenery while you are on the water is a huge draw for charter boats. On your way in and out of the marina, you’ll ride past lighthouses, coastal cliffs, and rocky islands. It is also a great opportunity to spot other marine life, such as whales and seals.

Another thing you could do on fishing charters is lobster fishing in Frenchman Bay. This is where you utilize lobster traps to catch lobsters and bring them up to the boat. Many specialized charters out of Bar Harbor offer hands-on experiences. Your knowledgeable captains can teach you how to catch lobster and pull traps. You may also have the chance to learn about the local lobster industry. When you are done, you’ll definitely want to stop at a local restaurant for a lobster roll!

Family Friendly Fishing Trips in Bar Harbor

While fishing can be a great family activity, some fishing adventures are better for families with kids than others. Trips that include strenuous hikes, challenging angles, or many hours on the boat might be better for an all-adult trip. Kids often love fishing in lakes or off piers, which are great places to learn. This is because the water is calmer, they are easy to access, and kids can learn without any added difficulty, like a moving boat. Lakes and ponds are also more likely to get a bite, since there are more fish in a smaller area. This means kids can build confidence with fishing without having to wait too long for some action.

For some family-fun shoreline fishing, check out Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park. This spot is great for smallmouth bass and trout while enjoying scenic mountain views. It also makes a great place for a picnic! The John B. Ells Pier is another great spot for catching mackerel and Atlantic pollock, early in the morning or after 8 p.m.

Stay at Terramor Outdoor Resort on Your Bar Harbor Fishing Trip

Staying at Terramor Outdoor Resort on your Bar Harbor fishing trip keeps you connected to nature from the moment you arrive until it’s time to head home. Terramor is in a great location for exploring and fishing in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. But the most exciting part of a stay here is the accommodations. This one-of-a-kind resort offers unique accommodations, including multiple glamping tent options. These nature-inspired lodging options blend comfort with the outdoors, which is perfect for travelers who have an adventurous spirit, but don’t want to give up things like plush bedding and a private bathroom. On-site amenities include fire pits, hiking trails, a pool, and a hot tub. Plus, it’s pet-friendly if you want to bring your furry friend along on your trip.

Fishing Trips and Other Outdoor Adventures with Nook

When it comes to planning outdoor-focused vacations, Nook Outdoors has you covered. Nook is home to a wide range of resorts that are perfect for all things adventure vacation, fishing, and beyond. These resorts blend comfort and the great outdoors, offering accommodations that keep you immersed without sacrificing convenience. Whether you are dreaming of hiking through a national park, exploring natural attractions in Texas, or hanging out at a dude ranch in Florida, Nook may just inspire your next unique nature trip.