AUGUSTA — Officials are encouraging fishing novices to try their hand at it this weekend for free.

The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife says anyone can fish on Maine’s waterways without a license on Saturday and Sunday. Free fishing is allowed for everyone except people whose license has been revoked or suspended.

The department says this weekend is a good time to introduce children to fishing. It says that thousands of residents and out-of-state visitors every year travel to Maine’s nearly 6,000 lakes and ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers and streams to enjoy the activity.

For a list of regulations or to purchase a license: www.mefishwildlife.com