Message from the Governor and Commisioner

We welcome you to the thousands of inland waters of Maine. We hope that you will enjoy your fishing experience. We have more than 6,000 lakes and ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers and streams which attract anglers from all over the world.

Maine has over 93% of the remaining wild Brook Trout in the continental United States and we intend to protect that jewel of a species for future generations. We want our grandchildren and their grandchildren to be able to catch a wild Brookie and enjoy the unique thrill of releasing it for the next angler to enjoy. It is critical for Maine’s angling future that we protect this important species.

In addition, Maine’s waters support one of the nation’s best Smallmouth Bass fisheries. Anglers from all over the world come to Maine to fish for this explosively powerful species. Be prepared-a Smallie can give you a memorable battle.

Speaking of explosive, our clear waters also support exceptional Landlocked Salmon fishing. Salmon are caught from ice-out to late fall in much of our state and Maine’s angling is ripe with salmon tales, past and present.

The state, where it is important to do so, raises and stocks a total of over a million pounds of Brook Trout, Brown Trout and Landlocked Salmon each year for your angling enjoyment.

Recalling our youth, let’s not forget that a child, a worm and a perch or sunfish create many smiles. Fishing is memories for a lifetime.

The State of Maine and the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife are grateful for your support. Your license fee is going directly to assist the management of our state’s sporting resources. Outdoor activities in Maine energize our economy with over two billion dollars each year and MDIF&W has the enormous responsibility of managing many of our most valuable natural resources.

Enjoy your time on the water or on the ice and take a child fishing. Tight lines!

Paul R. LePage

Governor

Chandler E. Woodcock

Commissioner