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Maine’s Kid-Friendly Fishing

Reeling in a wriggling fish on the end of a line is a thrill enjoyed by all ages. The variety of fishing available in Maine is what makes the sport so easy for everyone in the family. No experience is necessary and local outfitters offer basic fishing gear and instruction to equip you and your family for a Maine fishing adventure.

With more than 2,500 named lakes and ponds, 5,000 streams and more than 3,500 miles of coastline, you can spend a lifetime fishing new places and species in Maine. Keep in mind that warm-water fish are the easiest to catch, and might offer children and beginners the best opportunity for excitement and action.

Here are a few pointers for adults who would like to help kids get caught by something fun and worthwhile that will give them a lifetime connection to the outdoors.

• Get local knowledge by hiring a Registered Maine Guide. Find one at the Maine Professional Guides Association, the Maine Wilderness Guides Organization and the Maine Association of Sea Kayak Guides & Instructors.
• Rivers are trickier than ponds and lakes for small legs. To get kids started, find a dock on a lake or pond. Remember to have them wear a life preserver if fishing in an exposed place like a rocky point.
• Learn to cast a line before you go out with your child so you can teach them how. Once they learn to cast, they’re off and running.
• Public access is available in many places including state maintained public boat launches on many of Maine’s bodies of water.
• Licenses are required to fish in Maine in most cases and are available onlineand from many retailers. Not everyone needs a license, though, and there are options for the length of a license. On freshwater, non-residents may buy licenses for one, three, seven or fifteen days or the entire year. Non-residents under 12 do not need a license, but if you are planning to assist a child and are over 12 you should have one.
• For more information on Maine educational programs click here.