Free Fishing Weekend Coming to Maine February 19th and 20th

Find 'the big coat' and get some hand warmers in your Bean boots, free ice fishing weekend is coming up in the State of Maine.

Free Fishing Weekend For the State of Maine

'Free Fishing Weekend' is coming up across the State of Maine, slated for Saturday, February 19th and Sunday, February 20th. This means you can fish without a license, except for those that had their fishing license suspended or revoked. I suppose those people can just watch as you catch the big one.

Catching The Big One During Winter In Maine

Social media was taken by storm recently by a chonker caught by a Waldoboro couple in the Belgrade Lakes Region in January. The glorious capture was filmed and was put up on YouTube for us all to be shocked and awed by. This Northern Pike is a bar a bit too high to set for your winter fishing excursion but, as the picture shows, it's not impossible.

Chris Benedict (caught the fish), photo by Olivia Laine

Things to Keep In Mind When Enjoying Your Free Fishing Weekend

As with any sporting adventure, those who go out to enjoy their free weekend of fishing need to be mindful of a few things.

First, bring your stuff but don't leave anything behind.
Also, don't block pathways or roads with your car or vehicle.
Another thing is to stay on public lands, don't go traipsing around someone else's dooryard or backwoods.
Keep yourself safe by checking the forecast, outfitting for the cold, and letting someone know your plan before you head out.

Check out the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website to see what's going on where you plan on fishing and enjoy your free fishing weekend!

15 Must-Have Items For Ice Fishing Season In Maine

Ice fishing is an excellent way to embrace the cold winter months in Maine. It will get you outdoors for some fresh air, it's family friendly, and a successful day could yield a tasty dinner. If you're new to the sport, we put together a list of gear you'll need for a fun, comfortable, and successful day on the ice. Some of these items are more essential than others. Some gear may not be essential at all, depending on how you plan to fish. Again, the items we listed are geared towards those who are new to ice fishing.

Before we get to the list, remember to dress appropriately for the cold weather. We didn't put warm outerwear on the list, but it's definitely a must-have. Dressing in layers is important to ensure you're warm enough throughout the day on the ice. If you start getting too warm, you can simply take a layer off. Hand warmers are also worth packing.

Gallery Credit: Paul Wolfe

8 Places In Maine to Go Winter Camping

If you are looking for a way to take in winter in Maine and really go for an adventure, try winter camping in the Pine Tree State. Here are 8 places to go on your wild and frigid excursion in the great Maine outdoors.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Nickerson

6 Places To Do Fat Biking In Maine This Winter

If you want to try a winter sport that still has you on your bike, check out fat tire biking. It's basically riding a bike in the snow, except your tires are outfitted to tackle a snow-covered trail with a wider, girthier size.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Nickerson

18 Maine Guide Outfits to Use For Your Maine Adventures

Turn to those with the wits and wisdom of taking on the Maine outdoors with a Maine Guide and do some hiking, kayaking, fishing and hunting in the Pine Tree State.

Gallery Credit: Sarah Nickerson

LOOK: 25 fascinating vintage photos of the first Winter Olympic Games

The first-ever Winter Olympics were held in Chamonix, France, showcasing a variety of sports and athletes. Stacker assembled a collection of photos from those first Games.

Gallery Credit: Leesa Davis

Filed Under: Fishing license, maine fishing

Categories: Articles