Native Fish Coalition- Maine Chapter
Publication Date: 2020
Modification Date: Fri 28 Feb 2020 03:38:38 PM
Contributors: Emily Bastain , Bob Mallard
Maine is the last stronghold for wild native lake- and pond-dwelling brook trout in the United States, accounting for more than 90% of the remaining intact populations. The number one threat to these native trout is invasive fish introductions, both game and bait species.
This initiative aims to help protect this ecologically, economically, socially, and recreationally important resource by trying to prevent the introduction of invasive fish species through bucket-biology and the illegal use of live fish as bait.
Approximately 585 of Maine’s self-sustaining brook trout lakes and ponds are protected under the State Heritage Fish law. A citizen driven legislative action, the law prohibits stocking and the use of live fish as bait. The goal of this project is to make anglers aware of the location of these waters, status, threats and the laws in place to protect them.
According to several fish and wildlife professionals we spoke with, 20-30% of those found breaking the law do not know they are doing so. In many cases they do not know where they are, or did not take the time to read the rule book. This includes the illegal use of live fish as bait.
If we can prevent even 10% of the accidental and illegal use of live bait where it poses a threat to wild native brook trout, and save even one water from an invasive fish introduction, the project will be well worth the cost and effort.
With roughly 585 waters, and more being added each year, many of which need multiple signs, the material costs (signs and hardware) for this project will be in excess of $8,000. We have also had to purchase volunteer liability insurance.
The manpower requirements and costs for this project are immeasurable and beyond the reach of any state fish and game agency. This includes time, gas, gate fees, camping fees, food, administration, etc., much of which is being absorbed by NFC members and volunteers.
THERE ARE FIVE WAYS YOU CAN HELP...
Purchase a Sign: For a donation of $55 (which includes shipping) you can have your own Maine State Heritage Fish brook trout sign. A great addition addition to your camp, cabin, cottage, fly tying room, office, (wo)man cave or business, your donation will help pay for roughly four signs. Click here to purchase a sign.
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