We're all awaiting the first FLAG of the season! To help you start planning your ice fishing destinations, Maine's fisheries biologists from each corner of the state have put together a list of waters to try that typically freeze earlier than others. You may even learn their favorite ice fishing tip.
Mother Nature doesn't always cooperate, and we still need the right conditions to set in before ice will begin to form in most of the state. Be patient, start planning, get your traps ready, and do your ice dance! Hopefully we will be chasing flags soon. Always check the ice for yourself and use extreme caution.?
For more information on where to fish and tips from Maine's fisheries biologists, read the December and January fishing reports at?mefishwildlife.com/fishingreport.
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Maine inland fishing laws
The 2022 inland fishing laws are in effect until 11:59 PM on December 31, 2022 and can be found online at mefishwildlife.com/fishinglaws.
To help you begin planning your 2023 fishing trips, the 2023 Inland Fishing Law Book is now available online.
Please note the printed?2023 Inland Fishing Law Book has?errors in the Special Fishing Law section for three waters:?Chain of Ponds in Chain of Ponds Twp,?Lincoln Pond in Parkertown Twp., and?Great East Lake in Acton. The online law book has been corrected, and public access points at all three waters will be posted with signs alerting anglers of the errors. We apologize for any inconvenience and have?corrected the database issue to prevent this error from happening again.
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:??
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Leave no trace ??Carry out all that you carry in.?
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Park in public or designated areas?- Don't block paths or other roads. Be mindful of muddy, soft road conditions.
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Respect private property ??Utilize public access sites or areas where you have permission to park or access.
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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.
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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.
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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.?
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