Tips for a fun day on the ice
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
*mefishwildlife.com*
Being outdoors is good for the soul... Grab a friend, coworker, neighbor, or relative and go fishing this weekend!
family walking out to ice fishing spot [ [link removed] ]
Free Fishing Weekend is February 18-19, 2023
During Free Fishing Weekend, any person (except those whose license has been suspended or revoked) may fish without a license. All other laws and regulations apply on these days.
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mother and son drinking hot chocolate
Tips for a FUN day on the ice
* *Target warmwater species*?such as perch, chain pickerel, and bass for an action-filled day to help first timers get hooked.
* *Bring a warm drink or meal* such as hot cocoa, hot dogs, or chili! The experience of being on the ice is what makes ice fishing memorable for many.
* *Make sure everyone dresses warm, stays dry, and pack extra mittens, hats, and socks.?*It's better to have too many layers than not enough. And an extra pair of gloves is always handy in case one gets wet! Tall waterproof boots and snow or water resistant pants are great for wet conditions.?
* *Cards, a football, cornhole, and ice skates* makes time between flags just as fun! Or, build a snowman (no extra gear necessary).
* *Keep kids engaged with a task.?*If the kiddo with you isn't quite ready to set a trap fully on their own, keep them engaged with their own responsibilities. It can be as simple as holding the skimmer, scooping the bait fish, or picking where the next hole will be!
* *Focus on the fun.* For newbies, it isn't about a trophy fish... Avoid super long walks, and aim for a half day... anything beyond that is a bonus!
Wondering where to fish?
Each month fisheries biologists across the State put together a list of recommended waters, how to access them, and fishing tips. Click here to read the February Fishing Report [ [link removed] ]_.?_Or view the Stocking Report [ [link removed] ] to see where we stocked fish near you (focus on waters that were stocked fall 2022). Before you go, look at a depth map online to find an area with your target depth.?
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Please continue to use caution when venturing on Maine's frozen waterways. Always check the ice for yourself. Click here for ice safety tips [ [link removed] ].?
*Learn More* [ [link removed] ]
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person drilling an ice fishing hole with an auger
*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. [ [link removed] ]
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man setting ice fishing trap
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 [ [link removed] ].?
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ice fishing hole
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. [ [link removed] ]
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More information
Buy a fishing license [ [link removed] ]
Monthly fishing report [ [link removed] ]
Beginner?s guide to ice fishing in Maine [ [link removed] ]
Ice safety tips [ [link removed] ]
Search Maine fishing laws [ [link removed] ]
Fishing Laws Online Angling Tool (FLOAT) [ [link removed] ]
Protect our Waters from Invasive Species [ [link removed] ]
Fishing resources [ [link removed] ]
Current stocking report [ [link removed] ]
Maine Fishing Guide [ [link removed] ]
Fishing with soft plastic lures [ [link removed] ]
Learn how to be a good land user [ [link removed] ]
Hire a registered Maine guide [ [link removed] ]
Stay Connected with Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife: ? Facebook [ [link removed] ] Twitter [ [link removed] ] Youtube [ [link removed] ] LinkedIn [ [link removed] ] Govdelivery [ [link removed] ] ?
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