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AUGUSTA — To encourage Mainers to enjoy their outdoor resources and to support a happy, healthy Maine, there have been some temporary changes to the state’s fishing rules.
* Any person (except those whose license has been suspended or revoked) may fish without a license through April 30. This change does not apply to activities that require a commercial freshwater fishing license or permit.
* All inland waters that traditionally open to open water fishing on April 1 are now be open to open water fishing effective immediately. This change does not open any body of water to ice fishing that is currently closed to ice fishing
All other tackle, length and bag limits and special regulations still apply.
Visit mefishwildlife.com/covid19 for additional MDIFW updates related to COVID-19 as well as state fishing laws.
SAFETY REMINDERS
The state Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife also reminds thous heading out to fish of these safety guidelines:
* Inland waters are very cold this time of year. It is recommended that paddlers wear dry suits when water temps are less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, or wet suit when temps are between 50 and 60 degrees.
* Be sure to wear a lifejacket on or near the water this time of year. Statistics show that most people who unexpected fall from a watercraft without a lifejacket will die. If you think you have enough time to get to your life jacket before a crash or incident, think again.
* If you are going to be heading out onto frozen water bodies, please continue to use extreme caution. Accessing lakes and ponds should be avoided unless you can be certain of ice conditions by checking ice thickness.
* Before stepping out, use a chisel or auger to test ice thickness in several places. 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.
