Episodios

  • "Striped Bass Migration Peaks, Groundfish Bite Stays Strong in Coastal Maine"

    "Striped Bass Migration Peaks, Groundfish Bite Stays Strong in Coastal Maine"
    May 18 2025
    This is Artificial Lure with your Maine Atlantic fishing report for Sunday, May 18th, 2025.

    After a classic, foggy May morning, things settled into a mild spring day—right around 60 degrees along the coast. Sunrise was just before 5:10 am, and sunset will come at 8:03 pm. Winds stayed light and variable, which made for comfortable conditions on both inshore waters and offshore runs.

    Today’s big story is the striped bass migration. Schoolies are showing all around the lower rivers and estuaries, with some 30 to 40-inch fish moving in on the incoming tide. The best striper bite has been right around the herring runs and rocky points—places like the mouth of the Saco River and the Kennebunk marsh edges are lighting up. If you’re running out of Portland, the Presumpscot River mouth is holding fish too. Early morning and dusk have been the best shot at quality bass, especially while the herring and mackerel are schooled up close to shore[1][2].

    For lures, folks are having luck with soft plastic paddle tails in natural colors, swimming plugs, and classic bucktail jigs on the outgoing tide. Live or fresh chunk mackerel and menhaden are drawing bigger fish, especially off sandy bars and deeper points. Fly anglers are connecting with olive and white deceivers on floating lines—smaller schoolies are chasing almost anything that moves right now[1][2].

    Groundfishing is strong along Jeffrey’s Ledge and the nearshore humps, where haddock and pollock are filling coolers. Anglers bouncing diamond jigs or clam-baited rigs are reporting great numbers. If you’re looking for something different, the black sea bass and flounder bite is just kicking into gear around rocky patches and sandy bays[1].

    The bluefish run is also underway in the back bays. Expect toothy choppers to turn up around bait balls—metal spoons and topwater spooks are drawing some explosive strikes[1].

    On the commercial side, the northern Gulf of Maine scallop fishery remains open, with landings setting a brisk pace since reopening in April. Regulations are still in place, so be sure to check daily limits if you’re harvesting[3].

    For hot spots, try the Saco River mouth, Biddeford Pool, and the rocky outflow near Fort Williams. Offshore, head for Jeffrey’s Ledge if you want to fill a bucket with haddock.

    That’s the scoop from the shore and the boat this week. Tight lines, and I’ll see you on the water.
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    3 m
  • Maine Coast Fishing Report: Stripers, Haddock, and More

    Maine Coast Fishing Report: Stripers, Haddock, and More
    May 17 2025
    Good morning from the Maine coast. Artificial Lure here with your Saturday, May 17th Atlantic Ocean fishing report.

    Today’s sunrise was at 5:10 AM and sunset will be at 8:02 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to work with. Tides are running strong on the back end of the recent full moon, with high tide hitting mid-morning and again late this evening—great windows for activity. The weather is shaping up fair and mild, with light winds out of the southwest expected to shift along the shore. Water levels remain a bit high for this time in May, so keep that in mind if you’re wading or launching from the rivers[3].

    The big news this weekend is the arrival of fresh runs of striped bass all along the southern Maine coast. Good numbers of schoolies and some keepers are showing up from the Saco River north to Casco Bay. Anglers are finding fast action where river herring are thick—look for the bass to be ambushing bait in the mouths of the Saco, Scarborough, Mousam, and York Rivers as well as in Scarborough Marsh and Higgins Beach[1]. Early birds are doing well casting bloodworms and soft plastics like AlbieSnax and six inch Slug-Gos; try white on murkier days and naturals when the water is clear[1].

    Fly anglers are having luck with Clousers, and spin casters are picking up fish on white Ron-Zs. For those after groundfish, haddock are chewing well offshore from Outer Scantum to the Cove with steady numbers and excellent size reported. Platts jigs are a solid choice for the deeper stuff. Mackerel are starting to move onto offshore ledges too, which could mean a shot at early bluefin soon[1].

    Elsewhere, sea run brown trout are a possibility in the Kennebunk, Mousam, and Ogunquit rivers, and winter flounder catches have been reported near Ogunquit Beach. Keep an eye out for scallop opportunities if you’re venturing east toward the Gulf of Maine, as the NGOM area is open for harvest, though quotas are being monitored closely this year[5].

    Hot spots to check today include the Saco River mouth around Camp Ellis for bass and herring, and Jeffrey’s Ledge offshore for a mixed bag of haddock and mackerel. The York River is another prime location for a mixed-striper bite, and don’t overlook Ogunquit Beach for a shot at flounder[1].

    That’s the pulse from the water this morning. Tight lines, fish smart, and remember to respect the resource. I’ll see you on the tide.
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    3 m
  • Stripers, Haddock, and the Warming Bite: Maine's Fishing Forecast for Mid-May 2025

    Stripers, Haddock, and the Warming Bite: Maine's Fishing Forecast for Mid-May 2025
    May 16 2025
    ATLANTIC OCEAN MAINE FISHING REPORT
    Friday, May 16, 2025

    Good morning, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your local fishing report for the Atlantic waters of Maine. The fishing scene is really heating up now that we're mid-May, and I've got plenty to share.

    Striper season is officially underway with bass beginning to trickle across the Massachusetts border and into our waters[1]. If you're looking for stripers, they're starting to swarm the Saco and Webhannet Rivers with sizes ranging from schoolies to some slot-plus fish[3]. For the Saco, which holds herring and shad, go with bigger offerings. The tube-and-worm rig has been working wonders in the Webhannet[3].

    The groundfishing remains absolutely stellar right now. We've got a sweet situation on our hands with striper numbers increasing while the offshore haddock and redfish bite stays hot[3]. Jeffrey's Ledge and Platt's Bank are your best bets for consistent haddock action, and with few dogfish around, bait is working particularly well[3]. Some anglers are even finding fish as close as Tantas, though the farther grounds are more reliable[3].

    Local hot spots to try today: Wells Harbor Jetty has been producing nicely, and the marshes, estuaries, and flats around Casco Bay are heating up[3]. Captain Lou from Diamond Pass Outfitters reports good success on "tutti fruiti" size 2 Clousers when fly fishing, while soft plastics and topwater lures are also getting strikes[3].

    For bait, mackerel should be available not far offshore[3]. The rivers are loaded with herring and alewives, and the predator fish are pushing this forage onto the flats[3]. This pattern should only improve with today's conditions.

    Speaking of which, we're expecting the warmup to continue today, which should trigger even more fish activity[3]. The best spots for bigger bass will be around herring runs - specifically check out the Lamprey River, Oyster River, and Saco River[3].

    For those willing to make the trip south, Assateague beaches have been producing black drum and striped bass on sand fleas[2], though that's a far piece from our Maine waters.

    Remember folks, this is a transition period, so locations, numbers, and sizes of striped bass are only going to improve as we move deeper into May[3]. Get out there early, hit those river mouths on the outgoing tide, and you should find some action.

    That's the word from the water today. This is Artificial Lure signing off - tight lines, everyone!
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    3 m
  • Maine Fishing Report May 14 2025: Stripers, Groundfish, and Freshwater Trout Opportunities Abound

    Maine Fishing Report May 14 2025: Stripers, Groundfish, and Freshwater Trout Opportunities Abound
    May 14 2025
    Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Maine fishing report for this fine Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

    The spring fishing season is heating up along the Maine coast! The weather's finally cooperating, making it a comfortable time to be on the water without bundling up or dealing with icy guides.

    Right now, we're seeing smallmouth, pike, and stripers becoming active as the spring weather takes hold in our beautiful Vacationland. The striped bass are starting to trickle across the Massachusetts border, with some nice migratory fish pushing through. Some anglers are landing stripers up to 40 inches, so bring your big topwaters and flutter spoons if you're looking for a trophy.

    For those heading offshore, the groundfish bite has been solid around Southern Jeffrey's Ledge and Platt's Bank. Fresh reports indicate that from Plymouth to Plum Island, a new run of stripers have moved in, with flounder feeding regularly.

    Bluefish have been showing up in good numbers, invading the rivers and providing some exciting action. Tautog fishing remains steady with some anglers even landing personal best catches. If you're after scup, they're starting to arrive as well.

    For freshwater enthusiasts, the Fish River Lakes Region offers excellent trout opportunities. While water levels might be high in early May, Hanson Brook Lake, Arnold Brook Lake, and Echo Lake are providing excellent early season trout fishing in the Presque Isle area. Up north, check out Daigle Pond in New Canada and Black Lake in Fort Kent.

    Hot spots worth trying today: Plum Island for stripers, Southern Jeffrey's Ledge for groundfish, and the Aroostook River for some good flowing water action.

    Bait and lure recommendations: For stripers, large topwaters and flutter spoons are producing well. Classic steelhead crack brown buggers and olive buggers are working for steelhead. When fishing the cold waters, remember to slow your presentation down. Where legal, try a bobber with a worm or live fish as bait.

    Tidal info shows an incoming tide through mid-morning, which should push those stripers closer to shore feeding grounds. With sunrise around 5:10 AM and sunset approximately 8:05 PM, you've got plenty of daylight to work with.

    Remember folks, the upper fly zones have special regulations now - no weight law means no sink tips or added weight on the fly or line. And keep in mind that the fly zone closes around today or tomorrow, so check your regulations before heading out.

    That's the report for today, May 14th. This is Artificial Lure signing off - tight lines and don't forget to release what you don't keep!
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    3 m
  • Striped Bass Arrive, Haddock Dominate Groundfish Catch - Maine Fishing Report for May 12, 2025

    Striped Bass Arrive, Haddock Dominate Groundfish Catch - Maine Fishing Report for May 12, 2025
    May 12 2025
    Good morning, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Monday morning fishing report for May 12, 2025, fresh off the waters around the Maine coast.

    We're experiencing prime fishing conditions today with moderate temperatures and light winds making for a comfortable day on the water. The tides are running with a morning high around 6:30 AM and low tide expected mid-afternoon, creating excellent movement in the bays and estuaries.

    The big news is that striped bass have arrived! After weeks of anticipation watching the river herring runs and waiting for mackerel to move in, those seven-striped beauties are now in residence throughout our coastal waters. They've been hitting well on sand fleas near the beaches and shorelines, with several anglers reporting multiple catches in the 5-7 pound range.

    Groundfishing remains excellent with haddock being the star of the show. The Bunny Clark reported an outstanding marathon trip last week with haddock dominating the catch, along with good numbers of cusk, some redfish, and even a halibut. Several trophy-sized haddock in the 5-6 pound class were landed. They're finding the best action alternating between drifting and anchoring, with soft-bottom areas on Jeffrey's Ledge proving particularly productive.

    For those targeting groundfish, your best bet is to focus on Central Cove and The Prong. Remember that cod, cusk, and redfish tend to prefer rocky substrate while haddock are more likely in the softer bottom areas.

    Bait and lure recommendations: For stripers, fresh chunks of mackerel or clams are working well, with white or chartreuse soft plastic jigs also proving effective during active feeds. For groundfish, sea clams and squid strips remain the top producers.

    Hot spots to try: Great Bay tributaries are surging with baitfish and attracting plenty of predators. Jeffrey's Ledge continues to hold plenty of haddock. For freshwater action, Sebago and Ossipee Lakes still have salmon near the surface, while smallmouth bass are shallow and aggressive in the warmer areas.

    For those heading to the western regions, be aware that water levels remain somewhat high for early May, so plan accordingly.

    Expect fishing to improve through the week as temperatures continue to rise. The mackerel schools are thickening, which should only enhance the striper action as we move deeper into May.

    Remember to check your regulations before heading out, and make sure you've got your 2025 license on hand. Until next time, this is Artificial Lure saying tight lines and good fishing!
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    3 m
  • Maine Fishing Report: Stripers, Bluefish, and Offshore Riches for Mother's Day

    Maine Fishing Report: Stripers, Bluefish, and Offshore Riches for Mother's Day
    May 11 2025
    Good morning from the Maine coast, this is Artificial Lure with your fishing report for Sunday, May 11, 2025.

    Sunrise came at 5:16 AM this morning, and sunset will drop in around 7:51 PM, giving us a good long day to wet a line. Weather for today is classic spring in Maine—partly cloudy skies, light winds out of the southeast, and temps topping out in the upper 50s to low 60s. Tides are running moderate, with high tide this morning at 8:03 AM and the next low tide hitting at 2:27 PM. This typical May tide swing is prime for chasing both inshore and offshore favorites.

    Striped bass are the headline this week. Migratory schools have started to slide over the southern border, and local anglers are starting to see more schoolies mixing with the occasional keeper up to 30 inches, especially around the river mouths and rocky points. Your best action early and late is on large topwater plugs and flutter spoons, but don’t overlook a classic soft plastic on a jighead, especially in the estuaries and back bays where herring runs are thick[1].

    Bluefish have been pushing into our bays, and a few anglers are already reporting steady bites on metal lures and spoons. If you want to tangle with something bigger, the offshore scene is lighting up. Groundfishing on Southern Jeffreys Ledge and Platts Bank has been solid. Boats are reporting excellent haddock numbers, alongside good landings of cusk, redfish, and the occasional pollock and cod. One party boat this week even weighed in a halibut and several Maine trophy redfish—the deep drop bite is on, especially at anchor[3].

    Flounder and tautog are picking up for inshore bottom fishermen. Flounder are feeding best on sandworms or clams, and tautog are chomping on green crabs around rocky structure.

    As for bait and lure recommendations, stick to large soft plastics, live or chunked herring, and sandworms if you are targeting stripers or blues. For groundfish, clams and squid strips on double rigs are producing best. For tautog, it’s hard to beat a simple green crab on a stout hook.

    If you’re looking for hot spots, check out the mouth of the Saco River for early bass and bluefish, or make the trip offshore to Southern Jeffreys Ledge for a mixed bag of haddock, cusk, and pollock. Portland Head Light and the ledges around Cape Elizabeth are also prime grounds right now.

    That’s the word from the water on this fine Mother’s Day Sunday. Tight lines and don’t forget to check your regs—especially if you’re after halibut. See you on the water[1][3].
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    3 m
  • Maine Coast Fishing Report: Stripers, Haddock, and More Biting Strong

    Maine Coast Fishing Report: Stripers, Haddock, and More Biting Strong
    May 10 2025
    This is Artificial Lure coming to you with your Saturday morning fishing report for the Maine coast and Atlantic Ocean for May 10, 2025.

    The day started under clearing skies with temps climbing into the low 60s. There’s a breeze from the southwest, making for a little chop on open water, but nothing to keep the fleet at the docks. Sunrise was 5:17 AM and sunset will be at 7:52 PM, giving us a long window to get after the fish. We’ve got a morning high tide around 7:30, which will push bait into the rivers—perfect for the early risers.

    Striped bass action is picking up fast this week. The first decent push of migratory fish is moving into southern Maine waters, especially around the Saco and Mousam Rivers and up the York. Schoolies are in, and there’s been a handful of keepers reported, with some fish into the low 30-inch range. Most caught on soft plastics like pink or white paddle tails, as well as classic bucktail jigs worked just off bottom. Some anglers reported good action on big topwater plugs around sunrise. If you can find herring or bunker pods, toss a flutter spoon or large swimbait—bass are right on their tails[3][4].

    Offshore, groundfishing is solid. Jeffreys Ledge and Platts Bank are producing well for haddock, cusk, and a few pollock. A couple boats even brought in a halibut and some redfish this week. Fresh clams and salted herring are the go-to baits for bottom dwellers, but jigs dressed with pink teasers have been hot for larger haddock. Most party boats are alternating between drift and anchor, depending on the bite, and the last stops of the day have produced the best action[2].

    Flounder are feeding more consistently in shallow bays—sandworms and small strips of squid will put a few in the cooler if you anchor up and stay patient. Tautog action is steady, mostly south of Portland, but they’re hugging structure close to shore.

    For the scallop fans, commercial pressure is moderate, but recreational folks are finding a few legal ones around rocky ledges in the Casco Bay area[5].

    Hot spots to check out today: the mouth of the Saco River right on the outgoing tide for stripers, and the deep edges of Jeffreys Ledge for haddock if you’re heading offshore. Closer in, the rocky points around Cape Elizabeth and Biddeford Pool have seen a mix of schoolie bass and the first bluefish.

    In summary: fish slow and steady, favor early and late light for best bites, and keep a few lures handy. The season is just heating up, and today should be another good one to wet a line. Good luck out there, stay safe, and tight lines.
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    3 m
  • Maine Coast Fishing Report Stripers Haddock on the Bite!

    Maine Coast Fishing Report Stripers Haddock on the Bite!
    May 9 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Friday morning fishing report for May 9, 2025, fresh off the water around the Maine coast.

    The sun greeted us at 5:17 this morning and will be setting at 7:56 tonight, giving us plenty of daylight to work with. Weather's looking decent today with temps in the mid-60s and a light breeze from the southwest at about 8 knots. We've got an incoming tide until midday, with high tide around noon, so plan accordingly.

    Folks, the action is really heating up along our coastline! The river herring runs are in full swing throughout Great Bay and our coastal rivers, creating perfect conditions for the striped bass that have started to move in. These seven-striped beauties are showing up right on schedule, with several anglers reporting catches in the 30-inch range this past week.

    Mackerel schools are beginning to appear closer to shore, which is always a good sign that more stripers will follow. If you're targeting these stripers, fresh or chunk mackerel has been the ticket, though soft plastics in pearl or chartreuse have also been producing well. Throwing surface plugs during dawn and dusk has been particularly effective in the shallower areas.

    Groundfishing remains excellent offshore, especially on Jeffrey's Ledge where haddock are holding tight over soft-bottom areas. Central Cove and The Prong have been particularly productive spots. If you're looking for cod, cusk, and redfish, focus on the rockier structures. Just remember those new emergency regulations NOAA put in place on May 1st for cod and haddock limits.

    For you freshwater enthusiasts, salmon are still active on top of Sebago and Ossipee lakes. Smallmouth bass have moved into the shallows and are aggressively hitting jerk baits and swim baits. They're putting up quite a fight in this cooler water!

    Hot spots to check out today include the mouth of the Kennebec River where stripers are starting to stack up, Wells Harbor for a mix of schoolie stripers and the occasional keeper, and Casco Bay which has been producing some early season action. For groundfish enthusiasts, boats heading out of Portland to Jeffrey's Ledge are coming back with full coolers.

    Bait shops are well-stocked with fresh seaworms and clams, but supplies go fast on the weekends, so stock up early.

    Remember, fishing isn't just about what you catch but the stories you bring back. I'll be out on the water all weekend, so give a wave if you see me. Until next time, this is Artificial Lure signing off and wishing you tight lines!
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    3 m
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