Hunting

The autumn season in Maine is one of the treasures of nature. The fall foliage is unmatched for beauty and diversity throughout the Moosehead Region. Autumn brings the hunting tradition to life in Maine, with parties traveling from all over the east coast seeking Black Bear, Whitetail Deer, Upland Birds, including both Partridge (Ruffed Grouse), and Woodcock, and of course the great Moose hunt. Hunting seasons start with Black Bear in September and continues on to the one week long Moose season in early October. The Moose hunt is by lottery, with around 3000 permits issued per season. Each lucky hunter issued a permit has only 6 days of hunting to bag a moose, but the success rate is typically over 90%. Many non-resident hunters will engage the services of one of the many local hunting guides so they not miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime hunt.

Hunting season continues with bird season throughout most of October, a special bow season for Whitetails and then gun season for deer through most of November. A special muzzleloader season follows, and the last part of the year is filled with those hunting only coyote. Whitetail hunting in this region is typically the pleasure of experienced hunters, looking for that trophy buck, rather than the earlier career hunters simply looking for a guaranteed kill. Deer hunting in the mountains of Maine is not easy, but the payoff can be great. Three of the last six seasons, the biggest buck in Maine has been taken within 20 miles of our facilities -- most were over 280 pounds. Registered Maine Guides are available here at the camps for all types of hunting activities. Call us for details, and check with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife for details regarding seasons and limits.

Fishing

When many fisherman throughout the country are hanging up their waders in favor of hunting attire, the fall fisherman in Northern Maine seeks the elusive Salmon on the big waters and rivers they call home. As the days grow shorter and the waters begin to cool, salmon once again become active and can be found near the surface on many of the big lakes. Casting as well as trolling can be successful during September, and should not be overlooked by those seeking one last good run on that old reel. Water levels begin to drop allowing gravel bars and shoals to become exposed. Boating can be hazardous to the unfamiliar, but fisherman can avoid most problems by simply traveling slowly and with a good lookout. Streamers and live bait, along with various minnow and smelt pattern lures are the best bet for late season Salmon. And don't be surprised to find occasional Brookie in his brightest spawning colors roaming the shoreline seeking a mate. Both Landlocked Salmon and Brook Trout spawn in the fall, so the season closes on most waters at the end of September. Some waters however, remain open for catch and release through most of October. Check the regulations for special rules. Once again, check with Dan Legere at the Maine Guide Fly Shop for up-to-date details about area waters and the best flies for the season. He can be reached at 207-695-2266.

Wildlife Viewing

While it may seem incongruous to some to seek only photos of moose and deer near the time of fall hunting seasons it can be the best time of the year to do so. Most hunting does not actually begin until October -- bear hunting has a reasonably small following and is the only season open in September. Rarely will you ever see a hunter seeking bear as most is done from tree stands where the hunter simply spends the entire day sitting still and being very quiet. For those interested in seeing moose, especially during the time of their grandest antler spread, September is the time to visit. The days are warm and the nights cool and crisp with the first frosts of Autumn often apparent in the early morning mists. Moose are seeking mates now, and should be respected, but as such are more visible as they roam far and wide in their annual quest. Photo buffs will enjoy many a sighting from the roadside as well as by canoe. Guides are available now as during the summer, offering their vast knowledge of the woods and their expertise in finding the largest animals for your viewing pleasure. "Moose Safaris" are a common adventure enjoyed by many visiting the region from afar. We can arrange to have you picked up right here at the camps for such trips. Guides offer excursions by both vehicle and canoe, in the morning or the evening. One of the best ways to see wildlife is by flying over the area by bush plane. Pilots are available for short and long term flights by several noted wilderness flying services based right here in Greenville.