"These two days are a great way to get introduced to a lifetime hobby like ice fishing," said Peter Bourque, Director of Fisheries for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, "It's the start of February vacation for students, it's a holiday weekend, and there are ice fishing derbies and tournaments throughout the state."

"Ice conditions have been great throughout most all of the state. You might want to check with your district game warden or regional fishery office to get travel conditions on specific lakes or ponds. Ice fishing is an affordable sport for most. If you wish to remain one of those 'rugged outdoor types', you can get along just fine with an ice chisel, a few ice fishing traps and your youngster's plastic sled. This might be a great year to take your skates too.," said Bourque.

"We want to encourage people to be outside, enjoying the outdoors during the winter, and ice fishing is a great family sport. Make sure you take plenty of food and drink if the kids are coming along!" said Bourque.