Where to go, tips, and reminders





Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife





*mefishwildlife.com*






December + January Fishing Report

angler holding splake he caught jigging [ [link removed] ]

Ice fishing season is here! Maine’s fisheries biologists have a few helpful tips and reminders to share with anglers:


* *Give jigging a try!* Anglers who jig often have much higher catch rates. Set up a few tip-ups, then jig your last hole for added action.


* *Enjoy a meal from your fresh catch! *Fish tacos, smoked trout and cheese, fried togue nuggets, buttery baked salmon with fresh herbs and lemon... the options are endless!

Angler harvest can be an important tool when it comes to fisheries management and often the key to a healthy fishery. Our fisheries biologists craft regulations that are based on research and public input which allow for the harvest of fish on many Maine waters. On some waters, harvesting fish is even encouraged due to such issues as stunted growth within a fish population. Enjoy your day out on the ice, and consider bringing some fish home for a meal. It doesn’t get any fresher!


* *Looking for a place to fish? *Each month fisheries biologists from across the state share monthly tips, places to go, and more in the Fishing Report - give it a read! [ [link removed] ] To find where we've stocked fish near you, check out the stocking report [ [link removed] ]. Target waters that were stocked in fall 2025.
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*Targeting brook trout? *Fish shallow in 4-12 feet of water, though many find success in less than 5 feet. Use a small hook and bait (size 6 hooks work well). Find more species-specific tips on the blog [ [link removed] ] or in the monthly report [ [link removed] ]. 


* *Hook a beginner angler.* For fast action and fun, target warmwater species like bass, perch, and pickerel—they’re great for keeping new anglers engaged.


* *Safety First. *The December and January Fishing Report lists several small bodies of water that typically freeze first, but it is up to you, the angler, to test for ice safety. Remember to always use extreme caution when venturing onto Maine's waterways and know that conditions are always changing. Always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. We hope you have a great ice fishing season! Learn more about ice safety. [ [link removed] ]


* *Check the law book. *Before you go, check the laws and rules available online [ [link removed] ], in FLOAT [ [link removed] ], the app, or in print. The 2025 laws [ [link removed] ] are in effect until January 1, but the 2026 law  book [ [link removed] ] is available online for those planning ahead. 

*Read December + January Fishing Report* [ [link removed] ]


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fisheries biologist releasing a fish
Buy your 2026 fishing license

A Maine inland fishing license is your gateway to a full year of outdoor relaxation and unforgettable memories.

When you buy your fishing license, you are helping Maine’s freshwater fisheries. Money from your license purchase goes directly to the department, and it is then used to fund fisheries research projects, to enhance and restore fisheries habitat, preserve and enhance fisheries through stocking, create and maintain over 180 water access sites, and more.

"Thanks, anglers! "



*Buy Fishing License Online* [ [link removed] ]


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woman and child setting ice fishing trap on bright blue sunny day
Tips for getting started ice fishing

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 [ [link removed] ]. 
* If you aren't ready to venture on your own quite yet, sign up for one of our upcoming Winter Skills Days [ [link removed] ] happening in Augusta, Bryant Pond, and Brewer in January and February.
* For rule and law questions, check out these frequently asked questions and answers [ [link removed] ]. 


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Outdoor Partners logo [ [link removed] ]
Enjoy your time on the water, 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 and soft roads.
* *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. If you harvest your catch, please bring it home with you. [ [link removed] ]


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More information

Buy a fishing license [ [link removed] ]
Monthly fishing report [ [link removed] ]
Search Maine fishing laws [ [link removed] ]
Fishing Laws Online Angling Tool (FLOAT) [ [link removed] ]
Protect our waters from aquatic invasive species [ [link removed] ]
Fishing resources [ [link removed] ]
Current stocking report [ [link removed] ]
Beginner's guide to ice fishing [ [link removed] ]
Ice safety tips [ [link removed] ]
Learn how to be a good land user [ [link removed] ]
Hire a registered Maine guide [ [link removed] ]
Freshwater fish safe eating guidelines [ [link removed] ]








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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife ·41 State House Station · Augusta, ME 04333-0041 · (207) 287-8000 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]