Maine's Free Fishing Weekend is May 31st, and June 1st, 2025

Free Fishing Weekend is nearly here, so start planning your outing and get ready to drown some worms.

Buying a Maine Fishing License is Easy Online and Very Affordable

If you're new to fishing, you need to know that a fishing license is required in Maine, except during Free Fishing Weekends. A license is easy to buy online and costs just $25 for the season.

And before you say it's not really necessary, let me assure you that when you're fishing and a Game Warden happens by, they will ask you to produce your license. If you don't have one, you could be fined at least $50, plus the applicable license fee.

Mainers Won't Need a Fishing License on the Weekend of May 31st

Photo by Katherine Hanlon on Unsplash

But that's waived this weekend, May 31st and June 1st, during Free Fishing Weekend. Everyone can fish, without the need for a fishing license.

Get our free mobile app

It's a great time to get people who have never fished interested in the sport, or to try it out yourself before investing in a license. Maybe you could find someone experienced to give you some tips and make your trip a successful one.

There are some things to keep in mind however;

You will be required to follow Maine's fishing regulations
It's important to be respectful of landowners
Be courteous to others and leave no trace of your visit.

More information on fishing regulations can be found on the website for the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.

Be Safe Because Maine is Warming Up But the Water is Very Cold

Keep in mind that although the temperatures have warmed up considerably this week, the water is still extremely cold. Wear a lifejacket if you're going in a boat because you own't have time to put it on if the boat should capsize. I can tell you from personal experience that the inflatable ones are comfortable and don't get in the way.

Have fun this weekend catch lots of fish. Once you do, you'll be hooked like I have been since my first outing.