Yes, spearguns are legal in Maine but subject to strict regulations under state wildlife statutes and local ordinances. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) governs their use, requiring compliance with licensing, seasonality, and gear restrictions. Recent 2026 amendments to Chapter 13 (Recreational Fishing Rules) further limit speargun specifications and prohibited species targeting.
Key Regulations for Spearguns in Maine
- Licensing Requirements: A valid Maine fishing license is mandatory for speargun use in saltwater and freshwater, with additional restrictions for certain species (e.g., Atlantic salmon, striped bass). Non-residents must obtain a $60 annual license, while residents pay $25.
- Prohibited Species and Seasons: Spearguns may not be used for lobster, crab, or scallop harvesting. In freshwater, spearguns are banned for trout and salmon year-round. Saltwater seasons align with MDIFW’s 2026-2027 migratory fish regulations, with closures during spawning periods.
- Gear Specifications: Spearguns must have a mechanical safety mechanism and cannot exceed 5 feet in length. Barbed spears are prohibited in freshwater, and only non-lethal spears are permitted for certain invasive species (e.g., green crab) under MDIFW’s 2026 eradication protocols.
Local municipalities may impose additional restrictions; for example, the City of Portland’s 2025 ordinance bans speargun use within 100 yards of public beaches. Violations incur fines up to $1,000 under 12 MRSA § 10652. Always verify county-specific rules before deployment.