Maine · Fishing regulations

Fishing regulations in Maine.

Maine is the native brook trout heart of the East — more wild brook trout water than any other Lower 48 state, plus landlocked salmon lakes, deep lake trout, and a striped bass coast.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife · License: Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in Maine. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the MDIFW and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the MDIFW before purchase.

Freshwater

Brook trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon, lake trout (togue), brown trout, and rainbow trout drive Maine's freshwater fishing — Maine has more native brook trout water than any other state in the Lower 48. Smallmouth and largemouth bass have grown in importance. Pickerel and white perch are everywhere.

Rivers

The Rapid River, Kennebago, Magalloway, and Roach rivers are flagship trophy brook trout waters — many are fly-fishing-only. Landlocked salmon rivers run for spring and fall runs. The Penobscot, Kennebec, and Androscoggin offer mixed species. Bag limits and gear restrictions vary heavily by water — read the regulation booklet by county.

Saltwater

Striped bass, mackerel, and Atlantic mackerel, plus deep-water species. Saltwater registration is required — saltwater fishing is otherwise license-free for most. Lobster, scallops, and shellfish are heavily regulated separately.

Special

Many waters are fly-fishing-only or artificial-lure-only with catch-and-release-only rules to protect wild brook trout. The regulation book is organized by county and the specific water — read carefully. Open-water and ice-fishing seasons differ.

Popular species

Brook trout · Landlocked salmon · Lake trout · Brown trout · Smallmouth bass · Striped bass

State agency

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Agency site →

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