Open Water Fishing Season Begins In Maine This Weekend

In parts of Maine, it's time to pack the ice traps away for the season. Open water fishing starts this weekend in Maine.

As of Sunday, April 1, Maine waters are open to open water fishing. However, open water may be hard to find in parts of the state. In southern region counties ice fishing is allowed into the open water season, as long as ice conditions are safe. Check the 2018 fishing law book to see which region the desired lake or pond you wish to fish is located.

According to the Bangor Daily News, northern region counties will not get an extended ice fishing season this year, despite thick ice conditions.

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife set June 2 and 3 as Free Family Fishing Days. On these designated days anyone can fish in Maine waters without a license. These days are listed in 2018 law book.

The event gives Mainers an opportunity to try the sport without having to purchase a fishing license. If your fishing license has been suspended or revoked, no fishing for you.

All other laws and regulations must be followed. Those regulations and bag limits can vary depending on the body of water you choose to fish. It's recommended that you read through the 2018 Maine Open Water and Ice Fishing Law Book.