Maine state waters, out to 3 miles
Three coastal zones: Zone 1 (NH border-Owl's Head) hook/line only (through the ice Feb 1-Sep 30), Zone 2 closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays Mar 15-Jun 30, Zone 3 dip net or hook/line; standing in the water while smelt fishing is unlawful statewide.
ME DMR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
How to tell it
Pencil-sized silver fish with an adipose fin and a fresh-cucumber smell; winter harbor runs. More on the rainbow smelt page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Rainbow smelt in other states4 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask4
What is the size limit for rainbow smelt in Maine?
No size limit.
How many rainbow smelt can you keep in Maine?
1-4 quarts per day by zone and date; no daily limit east of Naskeag Point Jul 1-Mar 14.
When is rainbow smelt season in Maine?
Open year-round; gear, bag, and weekday closures vary by zone.
How current is this Maine rainbow smelt 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.
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