Wilderness Realty

Burnt Jacket Shores at Moosehead Lake is an ideal setting for the avid fisherman.  Moosehead Lake is home to a world-class salmonid fishery.  Three notable species can be caught from these waters; brook trout, landlock salmon and togue (lake trout). 

Trolling is by far the most popular method for catching fish on Moosehead Lake.  Streamers, spoons, plugs and sewn smelts are the preferred bait.  Soon after ice-out these species can be found near the top.  Regular line and a few colors of lead line are commonly used.  As summer progresses and the water warms, the fish move deeper.  Down-riggers and several colors of lead line must be used to reach the fish.

Fishing from a drifting or anchored boat with live bait and jigs can be rewarding particularly for togue.  Fly-fishing in protected coves, especially in the late afternoon/early evening, can elicit a strike from a cruising salmon or square-tail.

Two to three pound salmon are not uncommon with some tipping the scales in excess of five pounds.  Brook trout up to 5 lbs are regularly caught especially early during the ice-fishing season in shallow water near the shores.  Togue in the 2-3 pound class are common with an occasional 10+ pounder.  This past February one lucky ice fisherman caught a togue that was just shy of 30 lbs.

The fishing regulations are comprehensive and folks who plan to ply the waters of Moosehead Lake should consult the fishing rule book put out by Maine Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Just north of Burnt Jacket Peninsula lies Lily Bay State Park.  It is easily accessed from the Lily Bay Road.  The state park roads are open seasonally, however, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are allowed during the winter months.  In the summer camping, hiking, boating, picnicking and swimming are enjoyed by its visitors. 

There are two campgrounds with over 90 campsites available by reservation.  The campground is very accommodating with both trailer and tent sites.  A beach and picnic area is available for the campers as well as day users.  There are two boat launches including boat slips.  A hiking trail follows the shore of this rather large (over 900 acres) state park.  The scenic vistas from the park are breathtaking.   

During the summer months, the park is fully staffed.  Access is controlled and there are user fees. 

The park is a great asset for the Moosehead Region.  It is a wonderful place for residents to enjoy or take guests for a day outing.  It can also be used for inexpensive lodging by campers.   

The land around Moosehead Lake is dotted with several large mountain peaks (in excess of 2500 feet).  Several of these have short (max 3 miles) hiking trails to their summit affording tremendous views of the lake and surrounding mountains.  The longest hike is to the top of Big Moose Mountain.  Number 4 Mtn., Big Spencer Mtn., Mt. Kineo and Elephant Mtn. also have trails to spectacular vantage points.

These trails are great for ½ day to full day hikes.  Some can be steep; so you must be in reasonably good physical shape.  Be sure to wear a good pair of hiking boots and pack along some water, trail food, jacket and long pants.  The weather can change dramatically in this area, especially so atop the summits.  

You can find these trails in The Maine Atlas, Maps 41 and 49.  There are descriptions of each in the front of this invaluable guide.  Pick a bluebird day and take a hike; the scenic rewards will be unforgettable.