Nicatous Lake, Maine

Nicatous (nik-uh-TOU-uhs) Lake is a long narrow lake at the head of Nicatous Stream, tributary to the Passadumkeag River. It is approximately ten miles long containing 5,165 acres. It is widely considered to be one of Maine's most beautiful water bodies with its pristine sand beaches, intricate coves and 98 islands. It lies along an historic Penobscot River Indian canoe trail (now the Eastern Maine Canoe Trail) and is the hub for paddling routes down the Union, Narraguagus and West Machias rivers. The name Nicatous means "little fork" and refers to the nearby junction of Nicatous Stream and the Passadumkeag River, a decision point for Indian canoeists.

Nicatous Lake is one of the top five loon-nesting lakes in Maine, and has three bald eagle nesting sites. There are six deer-wintering areas in the area and ample range for species such as bobcat and black bear. Nearby West Lake supports trophy-sized land-locked salmon.

By purchasing an easement on the Robbins paper company land and additional acreage owned by International Paper, the state of Maine helped to foster sustainable forest management while extinguishing all development rights on the purchased land, protecting shoreline buffers, conserving wildlife habitat and opportunities for traditional recreation. In addition to the easement, the state acquired 76 of the 98 islands in Nicatous Lake.

There are two areas of development on the lake. There have been several camps and sporting lodges on the north end for many years and more recently there has been a large area of camp development along the east shore of the south basin.

There are several places for tent camping, which must be accessed by canoe or boat. There is boat access on both the north and south ends of the lake.

Nicatous is a great place for wildlife. Deer, moose, bear, loons and more!