Fly fishing in coastal Maine in the winter
Photo: Shalimar DeBusk
By John Henkelman, M.S., Registered Maine Guide
With a new year comes new laws. I thought there was no better way to ring in 2026 than with a rundown of what changed as of Jan. 1 as it relates to recreation on Maine public lands and waters.
Boating Safety
If you plan to enjoy time on the water with your kids, keep this in mind: Public Law 148 (enacted last May) now requires children under the age of 13 to wear a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved personal flotation device (PFD). This bill, sponsored by Rep. Hepler (D-Woolwich) and signed by Gov. Janet Mills, ensures our youth stay safe on the water.
The law requires PFDs to be worn whenever a recreational watercraft is underway. Exceptions include children who are below deck, in an enclosed cabin, or aboard larger USCG-inspected vessels like commercial ferries.
For me, this is a common-sense rule that I already enforce for myself and my clients. As I always say, it is nearly impossible to put on a life jacket when you need it most – especially if you are unconscious or being pulled under.
Wildlife and Hunting
Hunting and fishing might be a little easier (and cheaper) this year. Public Law 333, sponsored by Rep. Cluchey (D-Bowdoinham) and signed into law June 17, simplifies rules for junior hunters, seniors, and veterans so you can spend more time outdoors and less time on paperwork. Here is the breakdown:
Better deals for junior hunters: For Maine residents under 16, a junior hunting license still costs just $8 but now includes all extra permits and stamps that used to be sold separately (read: money savings). If you hunt during the expanded archery season, your license now automatically includes an antlerless deer permit and one either-sex permit. Finally, a special Youth Season has been established for the Friday and Saturday before the regular season begins.
Expanded access for seniors and veterans: If you are 70 or older, the Senior Lifetime License covers all hunting and fishing for life for a one-time fee of $8. Additionally, disabled veterans and individuals who have lost the use of their legs are now eligible for free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses.
Protecting Maine’s wildlife: Conservation is close to my heart. Maine is home to many rare and endangered species that need space to recover. Under new legislation, the documented locations of endangered species will be protected from disturbance and poaching. Additionally, the commissioner of wildlife now has the authority to create special deer seasons to prevent overpopulation, which can have a negative impact on forest health.
Fishing
The final change is a long time coming: lead fishing tackle. While the sale of lead weights and jigs has been banned for years, as of Sept. 1, 2026, it will be illegal to use them (specifically jigs) in Maine waters. I’m mentioning it now because it is already listed in the 2026 law book, and it’s a good habit to start today.
Why the ban? In Maine, we don’t mess with the “Big Three” – lobsters, moose, and loons – and will do anything to protect them. Because loons lack teeth, they swallow small pebbles to grind food in their gizzards. They often mistake lead sinkers and jigs for these stones. Lead poisoning has been the leading cause of premature death for Maine loons. Since the 2014 lead weight sale ban, lead-related deaths have already decreased by 57%. To keep the call of the loon part of our summer evenings, we have to keep lead out of the water.
Mark Your Calendars:
Free fishing days in Maine are Feb. 14-15, 2026 and May 30-31, 2026. On these days, any person (except those whose license has been suspended or revoked) may fish without a license. All other laws and regulations apply these days.
Final thoughts:
I wrote this to keep you on the right side of the law and to remind you that your voice matters. These laws might not always make the front page, but they impact how we enjoy our great state. I encourage you to reach out to your representatives during the second session of the 132nd Legislature. We are lucky to have access to our lawmakers; make your voice heard so future generations can continue to enjoy recreation in healthy ecosystems across Maine.
Disclaimer: This article is for reference only. “Know before you go” by checking all regulations at maine.gov/ifw. If you have doubts about regulations or the skills required for your next trip, hire a Professional Maine Guide at maineguides.org.
Questions or comments? Send me an email at John.Henkelman@outlook.com.
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