Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
areas, almost every pond has different restrictions on which techniques
may be used, what types of baits may be employed, as well as shifting bag
and size limits. Many lakes have restrictions on the use of motors or set
restrictions on motor horsepower ratings.
For a free rule booklet, write to the
Department of In-
land Fisheries and Wildlife
, State House Station
#41, Augusta, Maine 04333.
Maine is open to fishing nearly all year long. The open water season
begins April 1 and ends, for the most part, on September 30. Some season
extensions exist for specified waters for bass and other warm water game
fish through October. Some trout and salmon fishing is allowed in early
fall in specific waters.
Deep Sea
When deciding which boat and skipper to hire for a deep-sea fishing
excursion. don't be bashful about asking for details. Find out what kind of
success the vessel routinely enjoys and what folks have been catching
lately. Boats should be US Coast Guard certified and the skipper licensed
by the coast guard. Legitimate outfitters won't be offended if you ask.
Basic questions might include:
How long is the trip?
How many others will be on the boat?
What's the crew-to-passenger ratio? Many a trip has been ru-
ined when passengers spend too much time untangling their
lines.
Are refreshments offered? Some boats have rules prohibiting
passengers from bringing their own.
Also, check the weather yourself. If a change is imminent, consider a
shorter trip.
WISE WORDS:
The effects of sea sickness are often
worsened on a bobbing stationary boat. If you're prone
to seasickness, consider joining a regular tour boat
that maintains a steady speed.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is allowed for some species on most lakes as soon as the ice is
safe to walk on (at least two inches of clear, solid ice). Ice fishing for all
species is open on January 1 and runs until the end of March. In winter,
many lakes sport transient communities of ice tents and houses, some
