Fishing in Maine is at the core of our state’s economy, it contributes more than $319 million annually to our economy, including $75 million from ice fishing alone, and it supports over 3,300 jobs.
Good morning, I am Governor Janet Mills and thank you for listening.
In the northern zone of Maine, the ice fishing season generally closes on March 31, and open water season begins April 1.
Well with northern Maine still firmly in winter’s grip, Maine Department of Inland, Fisheries and Wildlife Commissioner Judy Camuso, I thought, should be able to extend the ice fishing season in northern Maine, and allow anglers to continue fishing and help our local small businesses have a chance to continue operating.
That is why I was pleased to sign an emergency bill, LD 1298, earlier this week and it allows Commissioner Camuso the authority to extend the ice fishing season beyond the traditional closing date and it allows waters that are currently open to ice fishing in Northern Maine to remain open for several more weeks, actually until April 21st under the same rules and regulations.
Extending the ice fishing season in northern Maine not only provides anglers with more opportunities to fish, it also provides continued economic opportunity for the many businesses that anglers support.
So, while this is good news for our fishermen, you know, conditions can change rapidly this time of year, and ice that forms over flowing water, especially near streams, or bridges and culverts, can be very dangerous so be aware.
Anglers should always check the condition of the ice before heading out.
As Cornelia “Fly Rod” Crosby once said, “I would rather fish any day than go to heaven.”
I wish every Maine fisherman good times, tight lines, and never-ending catches.
Stay safe out there.
I am Governor Janet Mills, thank you for listening.