Nichole Fecteau Blog

It's no secret that Maine offers some of America's best fishing. From bass and panfish to trout and salmon, lakes and rivers across the state host an incredible range of game fish, and Sebago Lake is consistently ranked among the very best places to go fishing in Maine. 

Today, let our real estate agents be your guide to one of Maine's best fishing lakes. Here's what you need to know so you can have a great day on the water at Sebago Lake. 

The Lay of the Land

Sebago Lake is just 30 minutes from Portland and less than an hour's drive from Augusta. The lake spans nearly 29,000 acres and is over 300 feet deep, making it the deepest and second-largest lake in Maine. 

Some of Sebago Lake's shoreline is developed with private homes and communities, but a significant portion of the lakeshore is wild, densely wooded, and undeveloped. Public access is available at numerous parks, beaches, and boat ramps. 

Fish Species in Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake is a healthy two-story lake, which means that it is home to both cold-water and warm-water game fish. Some of the most common and popular species caught in Sebago Lake include: 

• Landlocked Salmon: Sebago Lake is one of the only lakes where landlocked Atlantic salmon are native. Salmon were left stranded here after the end of the last ice age when the lake was completely inundated with seawater. 
  
  
• Lake Trout: Introduced into Sebago Lake in the 1970s, lake trout have come to thrive in the lake's deep, cold waters. Trout weighing as much as 25 pounds have been caught here. Lake trout are commonly referred to as "togue" among local anglers. 
  
  
• Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: Most common in warm, shallow parts of Sebago Lake, largemouth and smallmouth bass have been getting a lot of attention from bass fishermen in recent years. Look for largemouths around weed beds and smallmouths in rocky areas. 
  
  
• Northern Pike: Some of the largest game fish currently in Sebago Lake are northern pike, though these toothy predators are considered invasive and were most likely stocked here illegally. They're hard fighters that can top 15 pounds, and anglers are encouraged to keep any they catch. 
  
  
• Whitefish: Sebago Lake also supports a population of lake whitefish, which are usually caught using small jigs close to the bottom in deep parts of the lake. 

Best Time to Fish Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake is truly a year-round fishing lake. The best fishing for trout and salmon generally takes place in spring and fall, but anglers also catch some by trolling open water in summer or by fishing through the ice in winter. 

Ice fishing is also the most popular and effective way of catching lake whitefish, which feed close to the bottom in 30 to 60-foot depths. Smelt are targeted through the ice between December and February and also by bank fishermen on local streams during the spring smelt run. 

For warm water species like largemouth and bass, the summer months offer some of the best fishing opportunities. Bass fishing on Sebago Lake usually starts in May and continues to be excellent through September. 

Where to Fish at Sebago Lake

There are numerous places to access the water along Sebago Lake's 105-mile shoreline. The best fishing spots depend on the season and what you plan to catch, but some of the top places include: 

• Kettle Cove: A large and relatively shallow cove in the northeast corner of Sebago Lake, Kettle Cove is littered with islands, weed beds, and rocky reefs, making it one of the best bass fishing areas. It has also become a popular area to fish for pike. Kettle Cove Marina offers boat rentals and launch facilities on the cove. Ice fishing is also excellent in this area. 
  
  
• Sebago Lake State Park: Nestled at the northern tip of the lake, Sebago Lake State Park offers bank fishing access and boat launch facilities. The park is located at the point where the Songo River empties into the lake and is an especially popular fishing spot in late summer and early fall when Atlantic salmon start heading upriver to spawn. 
  
  
• Jordan Bay: This massive bay at the east side of Sebago Lake offers excellent shallow habitat for bass, as well as deep waters where lake trout thrive. This area is best fished from a boat, and access is available at the Raymond Boat Launch.
  
  
• Lower Bay: At the south end of the Lake, Lower Bay has a mostly undeveloped shoreline, and there is excellent fishing for a wide variety of fish species here. Sebago Lake Station Landing provides bank access and boat launch facilities. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Maine and the Sebago Lake Region. From fishing and boating to camping and hiking, it's the perfect place for anyone who loves the outdoors. 

Their picturesque settings and wealth of artifacts and documents make museums near New Hampshire's White Mountains well worth a trip any time of year. Our real estate agents gain a new perspective with every visit to these wonderful museums in the region.

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Before you know it, winter snow will start to melt, and warm sunshine will be on the horizon. Gray skies will turn blue, and flowers will begin to bloom in your garden. It's time to get ready for spring weather and plan some backyard improvements for your home so you can enjoy National Backyard Day on March 19th.

National Backyard Day celebrates the love of outdoor spaces where you can relax, enjoy nature, and spend time with family and friends. Whether that means relaxing by the pool, taking a nature walk, grilling with friends, or digging in the garden, our real estate agents want you to make the most of this special day by spending time outdoors. Take a look at 7 ways to transform your backyard into a welcoming oasis where you'll love spending warm spring days.

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In Northern New England, there's never a bad time to be outdoors. Time to put away the skis and snowboards and bring out the bikes and kayaks. Our real estate agents can't wait to be out in the warmer temperatures of spring, enjoying these wonderful spots for outdoor activities around Northern New England. 

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In the United States, you rarely hear the word "lobster" without "Maine" preceding it. When our real estate agents are craving this iconic seafood, they head to these great restaurants around Bar Harbor.

• Stewman's Lobster Pound - 35 West St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  It may sound like a unit of measure, but Stewman's Lobster Pound is named for a unique way of storing lobster. Live crustaceans go directly from the boat to an oceanside container with fresh seawater running through, which is also used for the kettle-steamed preparation. Start your meal with a Pineapple-Mint Mojito or other craft cocktail as you take in the spectacular view. Call ahead, as hours vary seasonally.
  
  
• Bar Harbor Lobster Bakes - 10 Rte. 3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  It's no secret what Bar Harbor Lobster Bakes is known for. For more than 30 years, this local favorite has been serving its sumptuous lobster bakes to residents and tourists alike. A fresh 1.5-pound lobster is accompanied by a cup of clam chowder, mussels, and corn on the cob. The dining room faces Hulls Cove for some scenic Atlantic views. Visit the website for information about seasonal hours.
  
  
• Blaze - 198 Main St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  The appropriately-named Blaze adds a fiery touch to lobster and other seafood items. This upscale yet casual bar, located in a renovated 134-year-old building, features a wood-fired oven that adds a deep, smoky flavor. This cooking method is showcased in the Wood-Grilled Fruits de Mer for Two, loaded with a two-pound lobster along with scallops, mussels, oysters, shrimp, clams, crab claws, potatoes, and roasted vegetables. On beautiful New England days, bring Fido along to sit outdoors. Hours are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily. Friday through Sunday.
  
  
• Jack Russell's Steakhouse & Brewery - 102 Eden St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  In Maine, even the steakhouses serve plenty of seafood. At Jack Russell's Steakhouse & Brewery, they do all the work for you. Lazy Man's Lobster is already removed from the shell and prepared with a white-wine butter sauce. From May through September, their pet-friendly outdoor seating is available. Jack Russell's opens for dinner at 4 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound - 1237 Bar Harbor Rd., Trenton, ME 04605
  From the red and white exterior to the unpretentious interior, Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound has the look and ambiance of a classic Maine lobster shack. The menu is simple yet seafood-centric, consisting of various dishes featuring lobster, crab, clams, mussels, oysters, and shrimp. There's not a deep fryer to be found on site, as all seafood is either steamed or boiled. Purchase lobster roll kits and other seafood items at Trenton Bridge's retail shop, which is open year-round from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. The restaurant is open from Father's Day through Columbus Day from 8 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. every day but Sunday.
  
  
• Paddy's Irish Pub & Restaurant - West Street Hotel, 50 West St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  Corned beef shares the spotlight with lobster at Paddy's Irish Pub & Restaurant. Lobster is the main ingredient in the Rustic Irish stew of Coastal Shellfish, which also includes clams, mussels, shrimp, and cod. Pub-style Surf & Turf features a butter-basted lobster tail alongside slow-braised boneless short rib. Customers love the lobster roll, with large chunks of meat in a flavorful lemon mayonnaise. Start your day with an elegant lobster Benedict topped with eggs, spinach, tomatoes, and lemon Hollandaise. Guests at the West Street Hotel may order in-room dining. Paddy's is open seven days a week, with breakfast served from 7 a.m. - 11 a.m. and the all-day menu available from noon - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Geddy's - 19 Main St., Bar Harbor, ME 0469
  Geddy's has a history that's as colorful as their food is tasty. In 1974, Gerry "Geddy" Mitchell bought a seedy saloon and turned it into a lively bar and entertainment venue. Over the years, Geddy's hosted noted performers, including Bonnie Raitt, Wynton Marsalis, and Arlo Guthrie. Arthur and Heather purchased Geddy's in 1987 and reinvented the spot as a high-quality seafood restaurant. The star of the show is the famed lobster bake, including Geddy's famous blueberry pie, which comes in a mini-version for lighter appetites. Like your seafood with a touch of heat? Try the bacon-jalapeño lobster roll. Visit the website for information about seasonal hours.
  
  
• Galyn's - 17 Main St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  Galyn's is located in a building that served as a boarding house for seafarers during the turn of the 20th century. In addition, architectural features salvaged from other local buildings make Galyn's a true tribute to Bar Harbor history. Try the Frenchman Bay Stew, a homemade bouillabaisse with lobster, shrimp, scallops, and fish, or the lobster fettuccine tossed with a white wine sauce. Galyn's opens for the season in April, with hours from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Are you buying or selling a home in Bar Harbor? Contact us at The Masiello Group for dedicated and experienced help.

When beginning a new home project, hiring an experienced contractor is one of the most important components to ensure you're happy with the results. Our real estate agents suggest asking the following questions when hiring a contractor to make sure potential candidates are the right fit for the job. 

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Did you know that the third Saturday of every February is World Whale Day? It's a day to celebrate, consider, and protect these wonderful, majestic creatures, which can be found from deep waters to coastlines all around the world. One great way to celebrate World Whale Day is to go on a whale-watching tour off the scenic coast of Maine, where you can learn more about whales and get a chance to see them up close in their natural habitat.

Living in Maine gives you an advantage when it comes to spotting whales because there are some excellent tours offered up and down the coastline. Our real estate agents have the details on some of the most popular places on the Maine coast for spotting whales.

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How much fun, entertainment, and adventure can be packed into 13 miles of scenic coastline? While relatively small in size, New Hampshire's seacoast region is one of the most popular destinations in the state for visitors from New England and points far beyond. There's so much to see, do, and experience on this beautiful stretch of coastline, which makes it a wonderful place to call home in addition to being such a great place to visit. Our real estate agents have the key details to help you get to know New Hampshire's Seacoast Region.

Delicious Dining and Fresh Seafood

• Martingale Wharf – 99 Bow St., Ste. W, Portsmouth, NH 03801
  Who could say no to seafood with a view? That's just the start of what you'll experience at Martingale Wharf, located on the water in the heart of downtown Portsmouth. When you're in the mood for an elegant meal paired with creative craft cocktails and a great atmosphere, this local favorite is the place to be.

• Black Trumpet – 29 Ceres St., Portsmouth, NH 03801
  With a mix of elevated bistro fare, cocktails, an extensive wine list, and indoor/outdoor seating, Black Trumpet is an ideal destination when you're going out for a night on the town. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio, then settle in for a meal prepared with the freshest ingredients.

• Popovers on the Square – 8 Congress St., Portsmouth, NH 03801
  When you're in the mood for a great cup of coffee, a casual, healthy meal, or a decadent treat from the bakery, it's tough to top the experience at Popovers on the Square. This restaurant is the perfect choice for a quick, delicious meal during a busy day exploring the seacoast region.

Beautiful Beaches and Parks

• Jenness State Beach – 2280 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH 03870
  If you prefer a quieter beach experience with beautiful views and fewer crowds, local beaches like Jenness State Beach can be a great option. This beach doesn't feature a boardwalk or some of the other retail amenities of nearby beaches, but for many visitors, that's a small trade-off for the peace, tranquility, and natural beauty that it offers.

• Hampton Beach – Hampton, NH 03842
  Now, what about when you want the full beach town experience, with a vibrant boardwalk, tons of attractions, great food, and countless shops? You can find that on the seacoast, too! Hampton Beach is really its own neighborhood, featuring an outstanding beach and plenty more to keep the whole family entertained.

• Odiorne Point State Park – 570 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH 03870
  Waterfront beauty isn't restricted to the beaches of the seacoast region, and Odiorne Point State Park is the perfect destination for a hike with a view. The park features an extensive trail system that allows you to see the coast from different perspectives, as well as a new playground perfect for keeping the kids entertained. For educational family fun, be sure to check out the fascinating Seacoast Science Center, where you can uncover the natural history of the seacoast region.

Shopping, Sightseeing and Entertainment

• Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom – 169 Ocean Blvd., Hampton Beach, NH 03842
  The seacoast region doesn't just attract visitors – it also attracts some of the biggest names in music and comedy. You will often find them on stage at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, which is the place to be for live entertainment. Keep an eye on the schedule to see when your favorite bands and performers will be on stage.

• Strawberry Banke Museum – 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, NH 03801
  The town of Portsmouth is nearing the 400th anniversary of when it was first settled all the way back in 1630, and the Strawberry Banke Museum is the perfect place to learn about its long, fascinating history. There are many seasonal activities to enjoy here as well, including an ice skating rink in the winter, gorgeous gardens in the summer, and a busy schedule of special events all year long.

• Fuller Gardens – 10 Willow Ave., North Hampton, NH 03862
  Part botanical garden, part historic estate, Fuller Gardens provides excellent examples of both the flora and historic architecture that characterize the seacoast region. The gardens here are all open to the public, including the Japanese Garden, Tropical Conservatory, Formal English Perennials, and sculpted hedges. It's one of the last working estate gardens from the early 20th century and still looks as beautiful as ever.

• Market Square – Portsmouth, NH 03801
  When you're in the mood for some sensational shopping at local boutiques and small businesses, make the short walk from the beach to the busy Market Square in Portsmouth. This is where you'll find many of the best shopping destinations in downtown Portsmouth, along with interesting historic sites and delicious dining spots.

Does New Hampshire's seacoast region sound like your dream place to call home? Let our team help you make that dream come true. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite New Hampshire communities.