Get outside and enjoy winter in Maine

dad with two daughters laughing while sitting around an ice fishing trap on a lake on a snowy winter day

The recent cold snap has resulted in ideal ice conditions throughout the state. It's time to grab your pack basket and a friend and head to your next ice fishing spot.

Looking for easy to access waters? We've got you covered. Is a remote, snowmobile-in adventure more your style? We have that too. Whether you are seeking landlocked salmon, large togue, cusk, brook trout, browns and rainbows, or warmwater species we have plenty of waters for you to enjoy.

Find recommendations on where to go from Maine's fisheries biologists in this month's fishing report. As always, use caution when venturing out on the ice and always check the ice conditions for yourself.

We look forward to hearing about your next catch!

View Fishing Report

Buy Your 2025 Fishing License

child with blue hat setting an ice fishing trap on a snowy overcast day

Free Fishing Weekend: February 15-16, 2025

Grab a friend, neighbor, family member, colleague... it's time to go fishing!

During Free Fishing Weekend, any person may fish without a license. Those whose license has been suspended or revoked cannot participate in Free Fishing Weekend.

This month's fishing report has several easy to access locations and fast-action waters for warmwater species that are perfect for the novice angler.

Beginner’s guide to ice fishing in Maine

Starting a new hobby can be both exciting and intimidating. Luckily ice fishing is a winter hobby that can be enjoyed with a few pieces of equipment and there are endless opportunities throughout the state. Learn what gear you need to get started and more in our beginner's guide.

Enjoy your day on the ice, and remember these tips

There is no question, ice fishing is a large part of Maine's outdoor heritage. Enjoy your ice fishing trip, and remember:

Leave no trace – Carry out all that you carry in.
Park in public or designated areas - Don't block paths or other roads. Be mindful of muddy, soft road conditions.
Respect private property – Utilize public access sites or areas where you have permission to park or access.
Be prepared – Check the weather, bring what you need for the day, and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Take care of your catch – If you are practicing catch and release, do so quickly and responsibly. If you harvest your catch, please bring it home with you.

Ice safety tips

Winter is one of the greatest seasons to enjoy the Maine outdoors but to do so safely, you must keep in mind that ice conditions are always changing. There are many factors to consider when determining whether the ice conditions are safe, and they can vary from day-to-day and from one water body to the next. Here are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind when judging ice conditions.

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Get outside and enjoy winter in Maine

Free Fishing Weekend: February 15-16, 2025

Beginner’s guide to ice fishing in Maine

Enjoy your day on the ice, and remember these tips

Ice safety tips

More information