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Many of us are now fully committed to the pursuit of white-tailed deer and other game afield. But just because November here in Maine is most commonly associated with hunting, that does not mean that great fishing opportunities don't still exist. Think about it, fish don't just up and vanish only because anglers do. And with some late season stocking efforts, we may have even added a few more to the mix as well!
If you have already had some success this hunting season, or you are maybe looking for something to do, consider breaking out the open water tackle just one more time and giving it a try. If you still feel like you are simply too late, maybe look at it this way...you are not actually late for this season, you are just getting a very early start on the next!
If you are planning on heading out, please keep the following in mind:
- During the fall months, special regulations are in place as some of our fish species are spawning. Be sure to consult the 2022 Open Water and Ice Fishing Laws before you go.
- Be prepared by dressing in layers and always wear a life jacket when on the water, the water is extremely cold this time of year.
- Many hunters will be sharing the woods and waterways this time of year, so please be mindful and courteous of others. Consider wearing an article of orange or bright clothing to increase visibility.
For more information on where to fish and other helpful hints from our Maine fisheries biologists, please refer to the monthly fishing report at mefishwildlife.com/fishingreport.
And as always, remember to be safe and happy angling!
Fall fishing opportunities
To help you find a fishing destination for your group, we've gathered a list of waters with fall fishing opportunities:
By General Law, South Zone Lakes and Ponds are open to year round fishing, unless listed as closed with a special regulation. If you wish to fish a lake or pond in the South Zone, check the lawbook to make sure it is not closed.
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How to safely catch and release
If you are planning to release your catch, have a plan so you can release your fish unharmed and as quickly as possible.
Always wet your hands before handling the fish and keep the fish in the water as much as possible (as little as 30 seconds of air exposure can cause delayed mortality of released trout).
If you want a photo, keep the fish in the water until ready for the shot, and remember, the memory is better than the "perfect" photo. Learn more about proper catch and release.
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Check out our map-based display of special fishing laws
Have you used the Fishing Laws Online Angling Tool (FLOAT)? This map-based display shows which water bodies have special fishing laws, and which are regulated under general law. Click here to open FLOAT.
Remember, you still need to view the general fishing laws in addition to the special fishing laws for the specific water body.
View all of Maine's fishing laws at mefishwildlife.com/fishinglaws
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