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Rulemaking Proposals Open to Public Comment
ADVERTISE: June 25, 2025
CHAPTER NUMBER AND TITLE: Chapter 1. Open Water and Ice Fishing Regulations
TYPE OF RULE: X Routine Technical
PROPOSED RULE NUMBER:
BRIEF SUMMARY: The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is proposing regulation changes for the upcoming ice fishing and open water fishing seasons. These regulations are needed to provide for the effective conservation of Maine's inland fisheries and to enhance fishing opportunities throughout the State. This rule-making packet includes 12 individual proposals presented in the following "theme" categories: Special Need; Salmonid Growth, Condition, and Performance; Expanded Angler Opportunity; and Errors, Conflicts, and Confusion. The proposals, if adopted, will become effective January 1, 2026. Members of the public are encouraged to review the proposals and provide comments by submitting written comments by mail or email to the contact person for this filing or by participating in the public hearing. (All comments must be related to this rulemaking packet.) Note: Written comments are given equal consideration to testimony given at the public hearing.
Date, time, and location of PUBLIC HEARING: July 15, 2025 @ 4:00pm – IFW, 353 Water Street, 3rd floor conference room, Augusta, ME
COMMENT DEADLINE: July 25, 2025
CONTACT PERSON FOR THIS FILING: Becky Orff, Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, 353 Water Street, #41 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333; becky.orff@maine.gov
CONTACT PERSON FOR SMALL BUSINESS IMPACT STATEMENT (if different):
FINANCIAL IMPACT ON MUNICIPALITIES OR COUNTIES: None anticipated. STATUTORY AUTHORITY FOR THIS RULE: 12 MRS Sections 10104 & 12452 SUBSTANTIVE STATE OR FEDERAL LAW BEING IMPLEMENTED:
AGENCY WEBSITE: www.maine.gov/ifw
E-MAIL FOR OVERALL AGENCY RULE-MAKING LIAISON: Becky.Orff@maine.gov