The Maine Warden Service and the Maine Marine Patrol jointly share the enforcement of Maine’s boating laws and regulations. With more than 6,000 inland lakes and ponds and 32,000 thousand miles of rivers and streams patrolled by Maine Game Wardens; and the more than 3,000 miles of coastline patrolled by Marine Patrol Officers - we cannot be everywhere at once. Without the help of boaters who take the time to learn and practice boating safety, our job would be an impossible task.

Freshwater or saltwater, many of Maine’s waters are very cold, even during the warm summer months. No matter how experienced you are as a boater or swimmer we personally request that when you are boating in Maine that you set the example and wear a life jacket!

As you take to the water this year please be mindful that you might be sharing your favorite lake, pond, river or stretch of coastline with other boaters whom have varied interests. If you are an experienced boater please take the time to educate a person who may be new to boating by explaining safe boating practices, boating laws and rules and the importance of letting some know where you are going.

Many Maine boaters are hunters, anglers or people who use boats to earn their living and transport them to their primary activity. It is very important that whether your plans are to go duck hunting on a marsh, fly fishing in a river or scuba diving in the Atlantic Ocean, that you do not forget boating safety.

With proper knowledge and safety equipment, boating can be a very safe and enjoyable pastime. If you have questions about boating safety or regulations, we recommend that you contact your local Game Warden or Marine Patrol Officer before you go.

Modern lifejackets are manufactured in a variety of styles to fit everyone’s needs and activities so “Boat Smart from the Start”and wear your lifejacket!

Colonel Thomas A. Santaguida
Chief, Maine Warden Service
Inland Boating Law Administrator

Major John Fetterman
Deputy Chief, Maine Marine Patrol
Marine Boating Law Administrator

*Boating Law Administrators are designated persons from each State who administer and oversee boating safety policy and regulation and represent the State in the National Association of Boating Law Administrator’s.

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