AUGUSTA – Open-water fishing season opened a week early today when Gov. John Baldacci signed an emergency law for all lakes, ponds and brooks – except those with specific opening-day regulations that start after April 1.
“People have been anxious to drop their lines given that ice fishing season ended too soon in some parts of the state, with many lakes and ponds experiencing early ice out conditions,” said Roland Martin, commissioner for the Department Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. “We’re happy to provide this opportunity to anglers, and remind them to be mindful of early spring cold-water conditions by being safe.”
Bag and size limits contained in the 2008-2009 open water fishing law book will be in effect. A new fishing law book that combines ice fishing and open-water fishing rules, including several new regulations, becomes effective on April 1. The law book is available where fishing licenses are sold.
Open-water fishing season historically begins on April 1, but unseasonably warm weather has opened up waterways throughout the state.
Copy the Story LinkSend questions/comments to the editors.
Success. Please wait for the page to reload. If the page does not reload within 5 seconds, please refresh the page.
Enter your email and password to access comments.
Hi, to comment on stories you must . This profile is in addition to your subscription and website login.
Already have a commenting profile? .
Invalid username/password.
Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration.
Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.
Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.