Maine state waters, out to 3 miles
Unlawful to fish for, take, or possess any sturgeon (Atlantic or shortnose) in Maine waters; release incidental catch immediately alive and uninjured.
ME DMR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
How to tell it
Rows of bony armor scutes, a shark-like tail, and a vacuum-hose snout with barbels — a dinosaur. More on the Atlantic sturgeon page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Questions anglers ask2
Can you keep Atlantic sturgeon in Maine?
No. Harvest is prohibited in Maine. Release it in the water where you can. Unlawful to fish for, take, or possess any sturgeon (Atlantic or shortnose) in Maine waters; release incidental catch immediately alive and uninjured.
How current is this Maine Atlantic sturgeon rule?
Source: ME DMR 2026, last checked Sep 20, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.
In the appPoint the camera at an Atlantic sturgeon in Maine and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
Get the app