Fishing has played an important part in Maines rich and varied history from as early as the 19th century. Alongside mining, lumbering and shipbuilding, commercial fishing played an important role in the economic development of Maine, which remained one of the areas most popular industries for several decades. However, developments in the mining and manufacturing industries saw a decline of Maines fishing industry. Fortunately, smaller communities living on and around Maines numerous rivers and lakes ensured that fishing would remain part of the areas heritage and become the hugely popular tourist attraction that it is today.Following on from this foundation, Maine now bases much of its economy on the tourism industry. Though Maine has many attractions, not least of all its lush areas of natural beauty, the fishing locations on offer are arguably the premier attraction for visitors from around the globe.