February 13, 2019

MDIFW NEWS -- Free Fishing Weekend in Maine is February 16 & 17

AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is reminding everyone to take advantage of the upcoming free fishing weekend.

On Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17, any person may fish for free without a license on Maine's waterways, except those who have had their license suspended or revoked. All other rules and regulations, including bag and possession limits, apply. Free fishing weekend is open to both residents and non-residents.

Fishing during the winter is a wonderful way to get out of the house and make memories with family and friends that are sure to last a long time. The Department is encouraging experienced anglers to consider serving as a mentor and to introduce a new angler to the sport during the free fishing weekend.

Whether on open water or ice, fishing is one of the most popular activities in Maine.

"Maine's nearly 6,000 lakes and ponds and more than 30,000 miles of rivers and streams offer endless opportunities for the thousands of residents and non-residents who fish them each year," said Judy Camuso, IFW Commissioner. "The free fishing weekend is a great chance for people to try fishing for the first time or for more experienced anglers to teach a new angler the joys of the sport."

As always, the Department reminds everyone to be cautious and always check ice conditions before venturing out.

"Test the thickness of the ice using an ice chisel or ice auger in several locations on the lake or pond," said Major Chris Cloutier of the Warden Service. "Remember that ice seldom freezes uniformly and conditions are always changing and can vary from one location to the next. Ice that forms over flowing water and currents, especially near streams, bridges and culverts, can be particularly dangerous."

The Department will also offer a free fishing weekend on June 1 and 2, 2019.

For a complete list of fishing regulations, including limits and sizes, visit www.mefishwildlife.com/fishinglaws

For information and resources to plan your fishing trip, visit www.mefishwildlife.com/maine-fishing-guide

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Maine Department of Inland Fisheries of Wildlife (MDIFW) preserves, protects, and enhances the inland fisheries and wildlife resources of the state. Established in 1880 to protect big game populations, MDIFW has since evolved in scope to include protection and management of fish, non-game wildlife, and habitats, as well as restoration of endangered species like the bald eagle. In addition to its conservation duties, MDIFW is also responsible for enabling and promoting the safe enjoyment of Maine's outdoors - from whitewater rafting to boating, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The agency's constituents include the fish, wildlife, and people who call Maine home, as well as the visiting outdoor enthusiasts and eco tourists who call Maine Vacationland and contribute hundreds of millions of dollars each year to the state's economy.