Not only is Moosehead Lake the largest lake in Maine, it is also the largest lake in the eastern United States. Nestled high in the Longfellow Mountains, in Maine's highlands region, the lake is the source of the Kennebec River. With more than 80 islands and an intriguing history, Moosehead Lake is a fantastic place for shore diving and boat diving alike.
Diving Moosehead Lake: History and Highlights
Before diving at Moosehead Lake, it is beneficial to increase your knowledge of its history, since knowing more about what happened there during the nation's early days can help you to uncover artifacts - though many have been located, the lake is a treasure trove of historic sites waiting to be discovered.
For centuries, Mount Kineo, which features 700 foot high cliffs that rise straight up out of the lake, has attracted people from all walks of life. These stony cliffs contain pockets of flint, called hornstone; it was first used by early Native Americans as a source for knife blades and weaponry. Later, railroad and steamboat guests marveled at the cliffs as they explored the region.
Situated at an elevation of 1,023 feet above sea level, Moosehead Lake is approximately 40 miles long by 10 miles wide. It offers over 400 miles of shoreline, and while it is buried in snow for at least six months of most years, the lake is best for diving between June and November. As you dive, you'll find magnificent geologic features including cliffs, ledges, and rockslides; in addition, you can find lost loads of lumber resting on the bottom, some of which is hard packed clay, and some of which is mud.
Some of the best places to find artifacts are located near the oldest camps on shore; head to 200 to 300 feet from shore, anchor, and let the fun begin. Local people used to dump all kinds of things in the lake, pushing unwanted items including farm equipment and other large objects out onto the ice, then waiting for the spring thaw. There is plenty to see in between 35 and 45 feet of water.
Another interesting spot is an old pier located near Northeast Carrie, where steamships used to dock. Here, there are lots of artifacts, including bottles and crocks, plus items accidentally dropped overboard. In other areas, you'll find house-sized boulders - in short, nearly everywhere you look, there is something new to discover.
While maximum depth in the lake is 240 feet, you can easily remain in very shallow water and explore to your hearts' content. During the summer, visibility is 25 to 35 feet in most areas. Ice diving is available between January and March most years, and despite freezing temperatures, you'll enjoy better visibility then.
As you explore, you'll find plenty of fish waiting to greet you; watch for brook trout and lake trout, cusk, suckers, salmon, smelt and shiners, and plenty of crayfish. Fishing is allowed in the lake, so be sure to use caution and dive with a flag.
There are no fees for diving at Moosehead Lake, however many areas do charge general use fees. If you hope to camp and dive, make reservations for your site in advance, and if you would rather not rough it, there are plenty of inns and motels as well as restaurants to enjoy during surface intervals.