Hooked on Maine 2025: General Fishing Laws for Inland Waters in Maine
Maine’s inland waters are a paradise for anglers year-round, offering opportunities for open water and ice fishing alike. To ensure an enjoyable and legal fishing experience, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the state’s regulations to get hooked on Maine 2025.
Licensing Requirements
A valid fishing license is required for all anglers in Maine.For license requirements and fees, visit Maine.gov/IFW.
2025 Fishing Seasons
Lakes & Ponds
North Zone
April 1 - September 30: Open to open water fishing.
October 1 - March 31: Closed to all fishing.
South Zone
January 1 - December 31: Open to ice and open water fishing year-round.
Rivers, Streams, and Brooks
North Zone
April 1 - September 30: Open to open water fishing.
October 1 - March 31: Closed to all fishing.
South Zone
April 1 - August 15: Open to open water fishing.
August 16 - September 30: Open to open water fishing using artificial lures or flies only.
October 1 - March 31: Closed to all fishing.
Ice Fishing Regulations
Maine’s winter transforms its lakes and ponds into ice fishing hubs. Here are the key rules and zones:
North Zone
Season: Closed to ice fishing from October 1 to March 31.
Bait: Use or possession of live fish as bait is prohibited. Dead baitfish, worms, artificial lures, and flies are permitted.
South Zone
Season: Open to ice fishing year-round.
Bait: Use of all legal forms of bait, including live baitfish and smelts, is permitted.
Special Codes for Ice Fishing
A: Open to ice and open water fishing from January 1 to December 31.
B: Open to ice and open water fishing from January 1 to April 30.
CI: Closed to ice fishing.
S-8: Restricted to two lines per person.
Bag and Length Limits
Daily Bag & Possession Limits
Brook Trout (North Zone): 5 fish.
Brook Trout (South Zone): 2 fish.
Brown Trout: 2 fish.
Rainbow Trout: 2 fish.
Landlocked Salmon: 2 fish.
Togue (Lake Trout): 2 fish.
Bass (North Zone): Unlimited.
Length Limits
Brook Trout: Minimum 6 inches.
Brown Trout: Minimum 14 inches (6–25 inches in rivers).
Rainbow Trout: Minimum 12 inches.
Landlocked Salmon: Minimum 14 inches (14–25 inches in rivers).
Togue: Minimum 18 inches.
Essential Gear for Ice Fishing
Ice Augers: For drilling holes in the ice.
Tip-Ups: Used to signal a fish on the line.
Ice Shelters: Portable huts for comfort in cold weather.
Safety Equipment: Ice picks, life jackets, and a buddy system are essential for safety.
Notable Restrictions
Endangered Species: Fishing for protected species such as sea-run Atlantic salmon, redfin pickerel, and swamp darter is prohibited.
Striped Bass, Shad, River Herring: Refer to coastal regulations.
Fishing License Requirements and Fees
A valid fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 and older. Maine offers various options for residents and non-residents to suit every fishing need:
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 | — |
15-Day Fishing*** | — | $47 |
7-Day Fishing | — | $43 |
3-Day Fishing* | $23 | $23 |
1-Day Fishing* | $11 | $11 |
Serviceman (Resident**) Combination | $3 | — |
Serviceman Dependent (Resident) Fishing | $10 | — |
Duplicate (obtained from issuing agent) | $2 | $2 |
Super Pack | $207 | — |
Tips for Ice Fishing Success
Check Ice Conditions: Ensure ice is at least 4 inches thick for walking and 8–12 inches for vehicles.
Target Popular Species: Focus on trout, togue (lake trout), and landlocked salmon.
Prime Locations: Sebago Lake, Moosehead Lake, and Long Lake are among Maine’s top ice fishing spots.
Time It Right: Early morning and late afternoon are often the most productive times.
Contact Information for Fishing Regulations
For more details on fishing laws or ice fishing opportunities:
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
Website: Maine.gov/IFW
Phone: 207-287-8000
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.
Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.
Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.
Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.
Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Explore Maine’s frozen waters this winter for a fishing adventure like no other! Stay safe, follow the rules, and enjoy the thrill of ice fishing in the Pine Tree State.