As we all know, getting outside and on the water is probably one of the best ways, in our opinion, to reduce stress, and get some much-needed Vitamin-D. As state governments tangle with how to reduce the spread of COVID-19, some are opening up their public lands and others are considering putting further restrictions on them. For instance, Pennsylvania has delayed its trout season until the 18th of April, and San Juan County, CO has prohibited all backcountry activities to reduce strain on their emergency services.
However, the great State of Maine is taking a different stance, and opening up their inland waters early and waiving the requirement for a fishing license!
Check out our full Maine Fly Fishing Guide!
From the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife:
“To encourage Mainers to enjoy their outdoor resources and to support a happy, healthy Maine, Governor Mills and Commissioner Camuso are enacting the following changes effective immediately:
Any person (except those whose license has been suspended or revoked) may fish without a license through April 30, 2020. This change does not apply to activities that require a commercial freshwater fishing license or permit.
All inland waters that traditionally open to open water fishing on April 1 will now be open to open water fishing effective immediately. This change does not open any body of water to ice fishing that is currently closed to ice fishing
All other tackle, length and bag limits and special regulations still apply. Visit mefishwildlife.com/fishinglaws for more information.
Visit mefishwildlife.com/covid19 for additional MDIFW updates related to COVID-19
IMPORTANT SAFETY REMINDERS:
Remember, Maine’s inland waters are very cold this time of year. It is recommended that paddlers wear dry suits when water temps are less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, or wet suit when temps are between 50 and 60 degrees.
Be sure to wear a lifejacket on or near the water this time of year. Statistics show that most people who unexpectedly fall from a watercraft without a lifejacket will die. If you think you have enough time to get to your life jacket before a crash or incident, think again.
If you are going to be heading out onto frozen waterbodies please continue to use extreme caution. Accessing lakes and ponds should be avoided unless you can be certain of ice conditions by checking ice thickness.
Before stepping out, use a chisel or auger to test ice thickness in several places. Remember that ice seldom freezes uniformly and conditions are always changing and can vary from one location to the next. Ice that forms overflowing water and currents, especially near streams, bridges, and culverts, can be particularly dangerous.”
Maine Fly Fishing – Where to Go, What to Expect, Seasons & More
