In the state of Maine, a fishing license is required by law for anyone 16 years of age or older to fish in inland waters or transport fish taken from inland waters. Licenses must be purchased prior to fishing and be kept on your person at all times when fishing or transporting freshly caught fish. They must also be shown to authorities, such as game wardens or wildlife officers, upon request. Failure to have a proper license can result in fines.
Maine Resident Fishing License Costs
The following fishing licenses are available for purchase by Maine residents:
- Season Fishing License (16 years and older): $25 per year
- Combination Hunting & Fishing License: $43 per year
- Combination Fishing & Archery License: $43 per year
- 1-Day Fishing License: $11 per day
- Serviceman Combination License: $3 for armed services members stationed in Maine
- Serviceman Dependent Combination License: $20 per year
- Serviceman Dependent Fishing License: $10 per year
- Duplicate Fishing License: $2 to replace lost license
- Super Pack License: $201 per year for all hunting and fishing privileges
Some key notes on resident fishing licenses:
1-day licenses can be exchanged for season fishing/combination licenses by paying difference
Servicemen and dependents get fishing licenses at resident rates if stationed in Maine
Maine Non-Resident Fishing License Costs
For non-residents visiting Maine, the following fishing license options and rates apply:
- Season Fishing License (16 years & older): $64 per year
- Combination Hunting & Fishing License: $150 per year
- 15-Day Fishing License: $47 allows 15 days of fishing
- 7-Day Fishing License: $43 allows 7 days of fishing
- 3-Day Fishing License: $23 allows 3 days of fishing
- 1-Day Fishing License: $11 allows 1 day of fishing
Some things to note about non-resident fishing licenses:
15-day licenses can be exchanged for season fishing license by paying $17 difference
Full-time students aged 18–23 can get resident license rates
Purchasing a Maine Fishing License
Maine fishing licenses can be purchased:
- Online through IFW’s licensing system
- From sporting goods stores, convenience stores, and town clerk offices
- In person at the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife office in Augusta
Be sure to carry paper/electronic proof of license when fishing, as it must be shown when asked by authorities.
Exceptions & Special Licenses
Certain individuals are eligible for free or discounted fishing licenses in Maine:
- Senior lifetime licenses are available for one-time $8 fee for residents 70+
- Complimentary licenses for blind residents and disabled veterans
- Exchange students under 21 can get resident license rates
There are also special “Super Pack” and lifetime licenses available only to residents that offer fishing privileges either for life or an entire year.
In summary, a basic fishing license in Maine starts at $25 per year for residents age 16 and older and $64 for visiting non-residents. Several options for shorter-term licenses are available too. Be sure to carry proper proof of licensing and adhere to all regulations.
Insider Tip: Many avid Maine anglers opt for the Super Pack license, which provides the ultimate flexibility for just $201 per year, covering all hunting, fishing, and other outdoor privileges.
Maine Fishing Rules & Regulations
When fishing in the state of Maine, all anglers are expected to follow the statewide fishing rules and regulations enforced by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW). These laws are important for conserving healthy fish populations and protecting the environment.
Here are some of the key fishing regulations in Maine that all anglers should be aware of before casting their lines:
Legal Catch Sizes & Limits
The legal length and daily bag limits permitted vary depending on the species of fish. Some examples:
- Landlocked Salmon: 14 inches, 2 fish limit
- Brook Trout: 6 inches, 2 fish limit
- Lake Trout: 14 inches, 2 fish limit
- Bass: no minimum size; 5 fish limit
Full details on catch restrictions by species
Seasonal Closures
Many lakes & streams have closed seasons during spawning periods to protect fish populations. These vary around the state; check the regulations for the specific waterway.
Legal Fishing Methods
There are rules around allowable bait, ice fishing shelters, hook types and numbers, and more that aim to prevent ecosystem damage.
Invasive Species Prevention
Transporting live fish between water bodies is illegal to prevent the spread of invasive plants & animals.
See full Maine fishing laws here. Significant penalties can apply for violations.
Tips for Fishing in Maine
From inland trout streams to the rocky Atlantic coastline, Maine offers world-class fishing opportunities in diverse settings. Use these tips to make the most of your next fishing adventure in Vacationland:
Research Thoroughly
- Identify prime target species and areas using local fishing reports
- Check regulations on water access, parking, camps, and harvesting
Use Proper Gear
- Match rods, reels, line pound tests, lures, and bait to target fish
- Have gear appropriate for water setting (streams vs open water)
Hire an Experienced Guide
- Guides know best locations & techniques based on conditions
- Can provide gear and handle licensing, transport and processing
Practice Stewardship
- Respect land owners if accessing private waters
- Never litter and avoid shoreline erosion
- Follow all catch limits and size restrictions
With careful preparation and responsible fishing habits, the waters of Maine offer amazing fishing memories that can last a lifetime. Contact the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife with any license or regulation questions.
