Machias River Corridor

By America's State Parks Editorial TeamMay 8, 2026 · Updated September 9, 2026

🏆 Wild Atlantic Salmon River — One of the last wild Atlantic salmon rivers in the US — 60+ miles of protected wilderness corridor

Machias River Corridor protects over 60 miles of the Machias River — one of the last rivers in the United States supporting wild Atlantic salmon. Atlantic salmon once spawned in every major river from Connecticut to Maine, but dams, pollution, and overfishing have eliminated them from all but a handful of Maine rivers. The Machias remains wild and undammed, flowing through remote Downeast forest. The river’s name comes from the Passamaquoddy word “Mechises” meaning “bad little falls.”

Visitor Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish for Atlantic salmon?

Catch-and-release only for Atlantic salmon — they are protected under the Endangered Species Act. However, the Machias offers excellent fishing for smallmouth bass and brook trout.

Why is it called Downeast?

“Downeast” comes from sailing terminology — prevailing winds blow from southwest to northeast along the New England coast. Ships sailing from Boston to Maine sailed “downwind” and “east” — hence “downeast.” Returning to Boston meant sailing upwind. The term now refers to eastern Maine’s distinctive culture — lobster fishing, blueberry barrens, granite quarries, and a rugged independence that defines Maine identity.

Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Duck Lake (within about an hour’s drive) or Rocky Lake (within about an hour’s drive).

About Machias River Corridor

Machias River Corridor public reserved land protects one of Maine’s most scenic and undeveloped river corridors in Washington County — the state’s easternmost and most remote county. The Machias River is famous for its Atlantic salmon run — one of the last wild Atlantic salmon populations remaining in the United States.

Things to Do

Canoeing and kayaking the Machias River (Class I-III), fishing for wild Atlantic salmon (catch-and-release), primitive camping along the river, birdwatching, and experiencing genuine Down East Maine wilderness.

Insider Tips

First naval battle: Machias was the site of the first naval battle of the American Revolution (June 12, 1775) — colonists captured the British armed schooner HMS Margaretta. Pro tip: The Machias River is a premier Atlantic salmon river — one of the last remaining US rivers with wild Atlantic salmon runs. Downeast Maine: “Downeast” refers to the sailing direction — ships sailed downwind (east) from Boston to Maine.

Best Time to Visit

Summer: Kayaking and wildlife. Fall: Remote Downeast foliage. Spring: Salmon run and high water. Winter: Extremely quiet — true solitude.

About the Author

America's State Parks Editorial Team

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to state parks and other public lands in the United States. Our editorial team compiles park profiles from official agency and operator sources and other identified references, and follows our published editorial policy and review methodology. Where a profile shows a source-check date, that date applies to the detail it names. We correct errors when we find them or when readers report them.

View All Articles by America's State Parks Editorial Team →