Plan adventures on the water with safety in mind.





Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife





*mefishwildlife.com*






Cold Water - Pleasant for Trout, Dangerous for People.

Underwater view of brook trout swimming under a log.

Brook Trout by Peter Abdu

Understand the Risks

The ideal water temperature for brook trout is between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, but humans just aren't built for anything below 70. Open water fishing has begun, and many paddlers are also eager to get on the water soon, but average inland water temperatures in Maine are only around 40 degrees in April. That's the same as ocean temperatures, and cold enough to kill quickly.

Water conducts heat away from your skin four times faster than air. Below 70 degrees, the colder the water is, the more dangerous it becomes. On average, the onset of hypothermia [ [link removed] ] for an average sized adult occurs in 30 minutes. Below 60 degrees, physical incapacitation [ [link removed] ] can occur in less than 10 minutes, making self-rescue nearly impossible. Below 50 degrees, cold water shock [ [link removed] ] can occur immediately, and survival of more than 5 minutes is unlikely. 

A map and chart showing 40 degree water temperatures in April in Maine.
Prioritize Safety for Adventures on the Water

Maine's inland water temperatures typically don't rise above 50 degrees until early May, above 60 degrees until late May to early June, and above 70 degrees until July. If you are an angler, paddler, boater, or outdoor enthusiast who explores Maine's lakes, ponds, rivers, or streams, follow these cold water safety tips for a safe season:


* *Don't make the mistake of assuming water temperatures are anywhere close to the air temperature.*
* *Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Wetsuits and dry suits are recommended for any water temperatures below 70 degree.*
* *Plan for immersion. Always wear a life jacket to significantly increase chance of survival.*
* *File a float plan. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.*
* *Check the forecast before you go.*

*Learn More About Cold Water Safety* [ [link removed] ]






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More information

Take a Boating Safety Course [ [link removed] ]

More Outdoor Safety Tips [ [link removed] ]

Purchase a Maine Fishing License [ [link removed] ]

Plan your Maine Fishing Adventure [ [link removed] ]

Maine Water Access Sites [ [link removed] ]

 








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