Cold Water - Pleasant for Trout, Dangerous for People.
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 for an average sized adult occurs in 30 minutes. Below 60 degrees, physical incapacitation can occur in less than 10 minutes, making self-rescue nearly impossible. Below 50 degrees, cold water shock can occur immediately, and survival of more than 5 minutes is unlikely.
 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.
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