February 13, 2015

MDIF&W Holding Free Fishing Weekend

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

On Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15, 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.

?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,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?We offer this free fishing weekend in the hopes that more and more people will be introduced to the many winter fishing opportunities Maine offers, particularly on our frozen lakes and ponds.?

?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 Chandler Woodcock, 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 child the joys of the sport.?

There are numerous fishing events happening around the state during this weekend, including one put on by the Department?s Hook on Fishing ? Not on Drugs program.

The program will host a free family fishing clinic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on February 14 as part of the annual ice fishing derby on Wilson Lake in Wilton.

The Department will also offer a free fishing weekend on May 30 and May 31.

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

For more information on fishing opportunities in Maine, visit www.maine.gov/ifw/fishing/opportunities/index.htm