Chesuncook Lake
Maine’s third-largest lake, Chesuncook Lake in the Maine Highlands region is best known as a starting point for whitewater rafting on the Penobscot River and for the landlocked salmon fishery in the West Branch of the Penobscot, below Ripogenus Dam. The lake occupies 26,200 acres and was originally formed by the construction of the dam, which was built primarily for water storage and hydropower and as a means to send pulpwood to downstream paper mills. Primary public boat access is located off the Golden Road that connects Greenville and Moosehead Lake to Ripogenus Dam. You’ll find numerous wilderness campsites located throughout the lakeshores.
Things to Do
You can fish on your own or get the expert advice of a Registered Maine Guide. The lake has a maximum water depth of 150 feet. The southwestern portion of the lake, also known as Caribou Lake, is popular for landlocked salmon fishing. The main body of water is large and you may want to consider larger boats rather than canoes or kayaks. The northeastern portion of the lake where Umbazooksus Stream enters Chesuncook is noted for huge white perch. You can reach this portion of the lake via the Chamberlain Bridge at the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. You can also fish for brook trout and lake trout.