Fish

An Atlantic salmon is gently lowered into the river by a researcher.

NPS/ A. Mattei

The many streams, creeks, rivers, and ponds of Katahdin Woods and Waters NM host critical members of a healthy aquatic ecosystem – fish. All of the fish at Katahdin Woods and Waters NM live in freshwater, with the exception of the Atlantic salmon. Atlantic salmon migrate between fresh and salt water each year to lay eggs. Fish are an ample food source for many animals in the monument, especially Maine’s diverse bird population. The great blue heron, a water bird native to Maine, has a diet composed of 88% fish.

Other animals such as black bears and muskrats eat fish when they become available, but not as a primary staple in their diet.

Fishing is allowed within the monument. Please refer to the fishing page for more information on best practices and where to go.

Aquatic Passage

Fish and other aquatic creatures within the monument require safe passage through waterways to complete their life cycles. Man made barriers such as roads and dams can make this impossible by blocking water flow. Natural resources staff at the monument work hard to ensure safety for underwater inhabitants by assessing and modifying barriers across the area. Learn more about ongoing aquatic passage efforts at the monument on the aquatic passage page!

 

 

Learn more about

Fishing in the Monument

 

Learn more about

Endangered Atlantic Salmon