The start of February school vacation week is the time to get kids on the ice to experience the joy of hooking a fish as the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife promotes Free Fishing Days.
On Sat., Feb. 19 and Sun., Feb. 20, people can fish for free on Maine’s waterways. This free fishing event is open to any person except those whose license has been revoked or suspended. All fishing regulations apply. For a complete list of fishing regulations, including limits and sizes, visit www.mefishwildlife.com and click on “fishing.”
Don’t know where to fish this weekend? Check out a list of derbies on the same web page. Entry fees may be required to participate in a derby and are not waived as part of free fishing weekend.
Fishing, whether on open water or on ice, is one of the most popular activities in Maine, drawing thousands upon thousands of residents and out-of-state visitors to the state’s nearly 6000 lakes and ponds and almost 32,000 miles of rivers and streams.
Approximately 286,000 people annually purchase fishing licenses in Maine, and the sport has a $300 million impact on the state’s economy.
“Free Fishing Days is a unique way for parents or adults to experience the joys of fishing with their children or friends. No license is required this weekend,” said Acting Commissioner Joel Wilkinson. “Giving kids a chance to fish may hook them on this sport for a lifetime. What a great gift that can be.”
Want to continue the fishing experience throughout the year. Fishing licenses are available for purchase on IF&W’s Web site, www.mefishwildlife.com, at any of the more than 800 licensing agents statewide at town offices, retailers and other locations.
They also are available at our main office at 284 State St., Augusta.
