Fishing & Harvesting Regulations

Harvesting salt water fish, crabs, lobsters, whelks and periwinkles in Maine is one of the time honored summer traditions of both locals and visitors. Below you will find the most relevant regulations regarding fishing and harvesting at Fort Foster.  Please be aware that it is the responsibility of the individual to be knowledgeable of relevant rules and regulations as they apply in the State of Maine.  

Salt Water Fishing
A person is required to Register with the State of Maine annually in order to engage in recreational saltwater fishing unless that person meets one of the exemptions.  Proof of being registered or documentation of exemption from the Registry requirement must be carried at all times while recreational saltwater fishing or transporting caught fish. For more details on exemptions and how to obtain a salt water fishing license please visit the Department of Marine Resources webpage. It is recommended that you are familiar with the Salt Water Fishing Regulations in the State of Maine.

Harvesting Crabs 
According to the State of Maine regulations on crabs, recreational users can take crabs by hand or with hook and line.  The use of traps of any design is illegal.  

Harvesting Lobsters 
The taking and of lobsters by any means, without a Maine lobster license, is illegal and subject to prosecution.

Harvesting Whelks and Periwinkles
According to the State of Maine regulations on whelks and periwinkles, recreational users can harvest up to 2 quarts per day per person without a license for personal use only.