Can I Keep?Trout Regulations in Maine (2026)
Recreational trout rules in Maine saltwater, as published by the Maine Department of Marine Resources. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
Rainbow Trout: minimum size 14 inches Brook Trout: minimum size 6…
Bag limit
Unlawful to possess more than 5 fish, of which, not more than 2 may…
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Trout rules in Maine
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- Rainbow Trout: minimum size 14 inches Brook Trout: minimum size 6 inches Landlocked Salmon and Brown Trout: minimum size 14 inches, maximum size 25 inches
- Bag limit
- Unlawful to possess more than 5 fish, of which, not more than 2 may be brown trout, 2 landlocked salmon or 2 rainbow trout. All 5 may be brook trout.
- Method of take: hook and line only
- Penobscot River: It shall be unlawful to take or possess any landlocked salmon, brown trout, or rainbow trout from tidal waters upstream and North of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and north of the Verona Island Bridge.
- See separate rule sheets for striped bass and sea-run rainbow smelt.
Quick answers
What is the trout size limit in Maine?
Rainbow Trout: minimum size 14 inches Brook Trout: minimum size 6 inches Landlocked Salmon and Brown Trout: minimum size 14 inches, maximum size 25 inches.
How many trout can I keep in Maine?
Unlawful to possess more than 5 fish, of which, not more than 2 may be brown trout, 2 landlocked salmon or 2 rainbow trout. All 5 may be brook trout..
All Maine saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Maine Department of Marine Resources. Most anglers need a Maine saltwater license or registry: get one here.