Spearfishing

Maine Spearfishing
Regulations 2026

Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Maine. Maine allows spearfishing in marine and tidal waters. Freshwater spearfishing is prohibited. A combination of state and federal regulations apply to marine species.

Saltwater Allowed

2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts Verified 2026

Resident Fee

$26.00

Saltwater fishing license covers spearfishing in tidal/marine areas.

Non-Resident Fee

$68.00

Annual license

Saltwater

Allowed

With restrictions

Freshwater

Restricted

Game fish may be banned

Species Regulations

Allowed & Prohibited Species in Maine

Allowed Species

Striped bass (within bag limits), flounder, cunner, pollock

Prohibited Species

Lobster (cannot be speared); all freshwater fish

Step-by-Step

How to Get a Spearfishing License in Maine

Purchase a Fishing License

All spearfishing in Maine requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Maine Dept. of Marine Resources / IF&W online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $26.00.

Know the Rules

Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish. Freshwater game fish spearfishing is restricted in Maine — focus on saltwater or non-game species. Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.

Check Location-Specific Rules

Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Maine Dept. of Marine Resources / IF&W before entering the water.

Requirements

Maine Spearfishing Requirements

Maine saltwater fishing license required.

Important Notes

Maine-Specific Regulations

Maine allows saltwater spearfishing in the Gulf of Maine and coastal tidal waters; a valid Maine Saltwater Fishing Registration (or NOAA registry) is required. Spearguns and pole spears are legal for finfish including Atlantic pollock, cusk, and groundfish species, though Atlantic cod and haddock are subject to federal trip limits and seasonal restrictions. Spearfishing is prohibited in certified shellfish flats, within 150 feet of a dam, and in areas marked as aquaculture leases by the Maine DMR.

Source: Maine Dept. of Marine Resources / IF&W (www.maine.gov). Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Maine Dept. of Marine Resources / IF&W.

Maine