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Maine fishing guide

Welcome to your key source for all fishing-related information in Maine. Discover not only the prime fishing spots but also learn about the diverse species inhabiting these waters. Stay informed about the latest fishing regulations and licensing requirements for fishing in Maine

655 spots
39 fish
14 lakes
6 rivers

What kind of fish can you catch in Maine

Below are 39 types of fish that can be caught in Maine. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Maine and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Maine to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

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Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in Maine

Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in Maine. Each Maine body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots

What rivers flow through Maine?

Below is a list of rivers that flow through Maine. Study the fishing map of the rivers to find out where and what kind of fish are in the river and when is the best time to catch them

Licenses for fishing in Maine

For detailed information on all license types and up-to-date fees, please refer to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or the eRegulations for Maine

License Type Resident Fee Non-Resident Fee
Season Fishing (16 and older) $25 $64
Combination Fishing and Hunting $43 $150
Combination Fishing and Archery $43 -
1-Day Fishing $11 $11
15-Day Fishing (Non-Resident) - $47
7-Day Fishing (Non-Resident) - $43
3-Day Fishing (Non-Resident) - $23
Serviceman (Resident) Combination $3 -
Serviceman Dependent (Resident) Combination $20 -
Serviceman Dependent (Resident) Fishing $10 -
Super Pack (Resident only) $201 -

Notes:

  • "Resident" refers to individuals who are residents of Maine.
  • Non-Resident rates are applicable to individuals who are not residents of Maine.
  • Some licenses, like the Super Pack License, are available only to Maine residents.
  • The table does not include all types of licenses, such as those for different age groups, lifetime licenses, or special privilege licenses.

Fishing Regulations in Maine

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods
  • Fishing with explosives, poisons, or electrical devices is illegal.
  • Use of gill nets, trawls, or seines (except for smelts) is prohibited in inland waters.
  • Snagging fish, or attempting to snag fish, is not allowed.
  • Ice-fishing traps must be labeled with the user's name and address.
  • Use of live fish as bait is prohibited in certain waters.
  • Crossbow fishing is only allowed for persons with a physical disability.
  • No fishing from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise in inland waters.
  • Spearing fish in inland waters is not allowed.
Catch Limits
  • Brook Trout: Daily limit of 5 with no more than 1 over 14 inches.
  • Landlocked Salmon: Daily limit of 2, minimum length 14 inches.
  • Lake Trout (Togue): Varies by water body, often 2-3, with size restrictions.
  • Bass: Daily limit of 2, with a minimum length of 10 inches.
  • Muskellunge: Daily limit of 1, minimum length of 30 inches.
  • Northern Pike: Daily limit of 2, no size restrictions.
  • Smelts: Limits vary by method and region.
  • Whitefish: Daily limit of 5, no size restrictions.
  • Yellow Perch: Daily limit of 25, no size restrictions.
  • Pickerel: Daily limit of 10, no size restrictions.
Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies
  • Access to certain water bodies is restricted during specific periods for conservation.
  • Fishing in private waters requires landowner's permission.
  • No fishing within designated swimming areas or near boat landings.
  • Restrictions on the use of motorboats in specific water bodies.
  • Special rules apply to border waters shared with Canada and other states.
Zones of Special Regulation
  • Special fly-fishing only areas.
  • Catch-and-release practices enforced in certain waters.
  • Specific waters designated for children and disabled anglers.
  • Artificial lures only in designated waters.
  • Seasonal closures and restrictions in sensitive ecological areas.
Protection of Rare Species
  • Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
  • Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive species.
  • Restrictions in areas designated for the protection of rare species.
  • Regulations aimed at preventing the spread of invasive species.
  • Monitoring programs for vulnerable species and reporting requirements for encounters.
Seasonal Restrictions
  • Seasonal closures to protect spawning fish, especially in the spring.
  • Ice fishing season is subject to ice conditions and specific regulations.
  • Special open and close seasons for various species, varying by water body.
  • Temporary closures during environmental or ecological studies.
  • Alterations in bag and size limits during different seasons for some species.

Most popular cities for fishing in Maine

The largest and most popular fishing cities in Maine. Cities in Maine include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.

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