FAQ & What to Bring

Planning a guided adventure with Maine Guide Outfitter? Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for a safe, enjoyable, and successful trip into the woods or out on the water.

Q: Where do the trips take place?

A: Most of our guided trips take place in Central Maine, including the China Lake region and surrounding forests, rivers, and ridgelines. Specific locations vary based on the species, season, and your preferences.

Q: What kind of adventures do you offer?

A: We offer guided fishing trips for bass, trout, salmon, and panfish, as well as fully guided coyote and snowshoe hare hunts with hounds. Solo hunters can book deer, turkey, or coyote hunts over bait from heated Banks Blinds on pre-scouted private lands.

Q: How do I book a trip?

A: Visit our Contact / Book Your Trip page to reach out. We’ll work with you to pick the right dates, plan your adventure, and answer any custom questions.

Q: Do I need a Maine hunting or fishing license?

A: Yes. All clients are responsible for obtaining a valid Maine hunting or fishing license before the trip. You can purchase one online through the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife -Moses program

Q: Can non-residents hunt or fish in Maine?

A: Absolutely. Maine welcomes non-resident sportsmen, and we’re happy to guide you through the process of getting the correct license and tags.

Q: What gear do I need to bring?

A: We provide most of what you’ll need, including hounds, blinds, boats, and safety gear — but here’s a general checklist:

• Fishing Trips: Polarized sunglasses, rain gear, appropriate layers, lunch/snacks, drinks, sunscreen, camera, valid fishing license.
• Hunting Trips: Firearm/bow (legal and sighted in), blaze orange (as required), warm quiet clothing, boots, daypack, lunch/snacks, drinks, hunting license and tags.

Q: Do you supply firearms or fishing gear?

A: We do not supply firearms. You’re welcome to bring your own, but in some cases, we can provide basic gear including open water and ice fishing gear. Just let us know in advance.

Q: Are the hunts physically demanding?

A: Some hunts involve hiking through rugged woods, while others take place from heated blinds with minimal walking. Let us know your comfort level — we’ll tailor your experience accordingly.

Q: Are your trips family-friendly?

A: Yes. We’ve guided all ages and experience levels. Our pontoon boat tours and ice fishing trips are especially popular with families and new anglers.

Q: What if the weather is bad?

A: We go out in most weather conditions, but if conditions are unsafe, we’ll reschedule or offer alternate plans. Always dress for changing Maine weather.

Q: Where do we meet?

A: We’ll confirm the meeting location (usually at our home office in South China) and time once your trip is booked. Most adventures begin within 30 minutes of China, Maine.

Q: Are food and lodging included?

A: Meals and lodging are not included unless arranged in advance. We’re happy to recommend trusted local options.

Q: Can I bring a non-hunting or non-fishing guest?

A: In most cases, yes — for an additional fee. Please let us know ahead of time so we can plan accordingly.

Q: What’s your cancellation policy?

A: Trips canceled within 14 days are non-refundable unless rebooked. Weather-related rescheduling is flexible.

Q: How do I pay for my trip?

A: We accept cash, check, or PayPal. A deposit is required to hold your dates.

We’re here to help you plan the perfect Maine outdoor experience. Feel free to Contact Us anytime — we’re glad to answer questions and make recommendations based on your goals.