Getting started.
Who this helps
Maine residents and nonresidents under 16 may fish without a license.
How to get started
No fishing license is needed for an eligible angler under 16. General fishing laws and any special rules for the water still apply.
Check the angler's age.
Maine residents and nonresidents under 16 can use this license exemption.
Look up the water.
On the MDIFW Fishing Laws and Rules page, find the water under Special Fishing Laws. Also open General Fishing Law Seasons and Bag Limits.
Fish without a license.
No application or license is needed. Follow the general fishing laws and any special rules for the water.
How they can help.
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife publishes fishing laws and rules. General fishing laws apply to inland waters, and some waters have special rules.
- License-free fishing for Maine residents and nonresidents under 16
- General fishing seasons and bag limits for inland waters
- Special rules for individual waters
- Fishing law summaries and educational information
A few questions before you go.
Check how the service works, when it is available, and any costs. Ask about communication or accessibility support if you need it.
- Can my child fish here without a license?
- What rules apply to this water?
- Is the fish my child wants to catch in season?
- What is the limit for the fish we catch?