Learn to Fish: National Go Fishing Day

Join Maine Outdoor Programs presented by Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) to celebrate National Go Fishing Day! This is an introduction to fishing event focused on spin casting with open face and closed face reels Those under the age of 18 must have a legal guardian. All equipment and worms will be provided.

What to Expect: Whether you are new to angling or have been wanting to practice those skills, MDIFW staff and volunteers are eager to spend a day fishing with you.

Participants can choose between spincasting on one of two ponds located at the Sportsman Alliance of Maine (SAM) Outdoor Center. You can bring your own gear or borrow some on site to try your luck at landing trout from the stocked ponds. Should you get lucky, our instructors are eager to show you how to safely release your catch or how to ethically harvest your catch for dinner. There will be a station set up to cook your fish as well.

What You'll Learn: Participants will leave with a better understanding of angling in Maine.

• Gain a basic understanding of various angling equipment
• Learn the techniques and trouble shooting aspects of angling and casting
• Learn how to tie on a lure
• Learn how to select bait and lures
• Build confidence, community and skills to continue angling
• Understand Maine’s Fishing Laws and Regulations
• Enhance knowledge of aquatic conservation and fisheries management in Maine
• Discover the magic of being hooked on fishing!

What to Bring:

• Fishing license (license can be printed or on your phone)
• Hydration - there is no running water on site
• Lunch, no food will be provided (exception is if you catch and want to cook your trout)
• Optional camp chair
• Fishing gear will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own gear.
• We will be outside all day, so please dress for the weather, rain or shine.
• Bug spray
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and you may want a hat

*************************************************************************************************************

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and our partners are fully committed to providing an engaging event for all. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact Chelsea Lathrop at Chelsea.Lathrop@maine.gov or 207-446-8692 prior to the event. If you have any other questions or concerns, please reach out! We are here to help and look forward to talking with you.

About Maine Outdoor Programs

Maine Outdoor Programs, an initiative of Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, provides hands-on learning experiences for people of all ages and skill levels to connect with the outdoors. Whether you're looking to build new skills or strengthen existing ones, our programs offer opportunities to explore hunting, fishing, trapping, outdoor preparedness, and wildlife viewing in a welcoming environment.