Maine § 12659-A. - Ice fishing regulations

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 12659-A. — Ice fishing regulations, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12659-A.. Ice fishing regulations

1.  Five-line limit.  Unless otherwise provided by rule, a person licensed to fish may not fish through the ice with more than 5 lines set or otherwise.

A.   [PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. E, §9 (RP).]

B.   [PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. E, §9 (RP).]

C. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged.   [PL 2005, c. 477, §17 (NEW).]

D. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime.   [PL 2005, c. 477, §17 (NEW).]

2.  Penalty. 

3.  Unattended lines.  Except as provided in subsection 4, a person licensed to fish shall have all lines under that person's immediate supervision.

A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged.   [PL 2005, c. 477, §18 (NEW).]

B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime.   [PL 2005, c. 477, §18 (NEW).]

4.  Checking cusk lines.  A person fishing through the ice for cusk in the nighttime shall visit at least once every hour all lines set by that person for cusk.

A. A person who violates this subsection commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged.   [PL 2005, c. 477, §19 (NEW).]

B. A person who violates this subsection after having been adjudicated as having committed 3 or more civil violations under this Part within the previous 5-year period commits a Class E crime.   [PL 2005, c. 477, §19 (NEW).]

5.  Penalty. 

Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 12659-A.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 12659-A. cover?

Section 12659-A. ("Ice fishing regulations") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maine § 12659-A.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 12659-A." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maine law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.

How does Maine § 12659-A. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.