Code of Maine Rules
13 - DEPARTMENT OF MARINE RESOURCES
188 - MARINE RESOURCES - GENERAL
Chapter 10 - CLAMS AND QUAHOGS
Section 188-10-05 - Taking of Quahogs in the Sub-tidal Waters of the New Meadows Lakes, Brunswick and West Bath

A. Methods of Harvest Prohibited

It shall be unlawful to fish for or take quahogs by towing any dredge, drag or other implement by watercraft; by diver/diving (SCUBA or snorkel*); or by pump, suction or any type of mechanical suction device. Hand digging with a so-called clam hoe or bull rake, hand-raking, hand tonging, or picking quahogs out of the mud by hand are allowed. Harvest by cutting through or breaking the ice is prohibited; harvest may take place only through open water.

*Any artificial breathing device that allows a person to breathe underwater.

This subsection does not apply to the holder of a lease issued under 12 M.R.S. §§6072, 6072-A or 6072-B when fishing for or taking quahogs cultivated on the leased area within the waters of the New Meadows Lakes, nor does it apply to the holder of a Municipal shellfish aquaculture permit issued under § 6673.

B. Night Prohibition

It shall be unlawful to fish for or take quahogs during the period 1/2 hour after sunset, as defined in 12 M.R.S. §6001(46), until 1/2 hour before sunrise, as defined in 12 M.R.S. §6001(45).

C. Closed Periods

It is unlawful to fish for or take quahogs from the New Meadows Lakes:

Winter. During the period 1/2 hour after sunset, as defined in 12 M.R.S. §6001(46), on December 31st until 1/2 hour before sunrise, as defined in 12 M.R.S. §6001(45), on April 1st.

Sundays: During the period 1/2 hour after sunset, as defined in 12 M.R.S. §6001(46), on Saturday until 1/2 hour before sunrise, as defined in 12 M.R.S. §6001(45), on Monday.