Rangeley Lake is coldwater fishing with a mountain backdrop and a choice of town or state-park access. Salmon and brook trout are the targets to build a trip around. Its depth gives fish room to move, so a productive spring shoreline may be quiet once summer warms the surface.
Lake facts
- Lake size: About 6,000 acres
- Fish to target: Landlocked salmon and brook trout
- Depth: Maximum about 149 feet
Where to fish
Troll a small spoon or streamer that resembles smelt, starting shallower in cool conditions and adjusting depth as needed. Brook trout also deserve attention near suitable cool shoreline habitat. Look at the contour map and weather before committing a small boat to the exposed middle.
Getting on the water
Public access is available at Rangeley Town Park, Rangeley Lake State Park and the Oquossoc outlet area. The state park provides a lakeside camping base on the southern shore. Choose the closest launch to the part of the lake you want to fish.
More to do at the lake
Camping, paddling and the park's beach can fill the hours between fishing sessions. The lake and its outlet river have their own rules, so check the correct entry before fishing either one. Don't assume ordinary bait choices or open seasons apply here.
Nearby fishing waters
Explore nearby waters, including local Featured destinations. Check each page for access and fishing restrictions.
Distances are straight-line estimates between mapped water locations.