The largest fish migration from Casco Bay has begun with thousands of alewife fish swimming through Mill Brook Preserve now. The fish will migrate from pool to pool along Mill Brook over the next month. This is a self-guided event. We hope you can adventure out to see this incredible wildlife phenomenon and you can be a part of ensuring the success of this migration - please first read this important new change.
NEW THIS YEAR: For the health of this fish migration run, we have roped off the fish viewing pools, please do not cross the ropes. The ropes will better support the extremely difficult migration for these alewife fish. The ropes have been added to:
help ensure all people and pets stay out of the water
stop soil eroding into the stream, and
make it clear fishing and collecting fish is not allowed.
What is the Land Trust's role in the fish migration and how can I help?
As the stewards of the largest fish migration from Casco Bay, we have one dedicated summer staff, Devon Case, plus nearly 100 volunteers involved in supporting this fish migration who are counting the fish as they arrive at Highland Lake to spawn and/or welcoming visitors at the fish viewing pools - thank you volunteers. Member support is what makes this happen, if you are already a member thank you, if not please consider taking a minute to JOIN NOW ONLINE and you too can be a part of supporting this incredible migration.
Want to learn more about the fish migration?
Click here to go to our new Nature Education page and scroll to Fish Migration to learn the history and science behind this fish migration.
Wondering where to park and how to get to the fish viewing pools in Mill Brook Preserve?
You can see fish migrating along the Mill Brook Preserve trails from every trailhead click here for the trail map. Trailheads on Perry Court and just north of 789 Methodist Road are the shortest hikes to the southern fish viewing pool (please park safely off the road along Methodist Road or at the temporary parking area which is signed). The southern fish viewing pool is the more likely place to see fish along their migration. The northern fish viewing pool is more remote and if the timing is right you can watch multiple fish ascending the waterfall at once. All trailheads have limited parking, please be sure not to block driveways or park on neighbors lawns, and please try and visit during off-peak hours.
Is visiting the fish migration a family-friendly activity?
Yes, if your children are five or older (or younger if you are able to carry them) we recommend the new 2-mile hiking loop that crosses two bridges, includes nature scavenger hunt cards along the trail, and has a fairy and gnome village. The 2-mile loop can be accessed from the two southern trailheads, see map.
What are the trail conditions?
These are hiking trails, with steep slopes, so please wear solid footwear. These trails follow a beautiful forested valley and since spring is in full swing you may want to bring bug spray.
I hope you can get out and enjoy one of the most incredible wildlife wonders in Greater Portland.