Atlantic Ocean, Maine Fishing Report - Daily
Mainecast Fishing Report: Bluefish Surge, Stripers on the Move, and Pollock Dominate the Catches
As of October 7, 2024, the fishing scene along the Maine coast is buzzing with activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
Weather and Tides:
Today, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58°F and a low of 45°F. Winds will be moderate, coming in from the northeast at about 10-15 mph. Tides are crucial; the high tide is at 8:47 AM and the low tide at 2:53 PM. These conditions should provide a good mix for both surf and boat anglers.
Sunrise and Sunset:
Sunrise is at 6:33 AM, and sunset will be at 5:43 PM, giving you ample daylight to find your favorite spots.
Fish Activity:
Yesterday saw a surge in bluefish activity, with these aggressive fish averaging between 6-9 pounds. They are abundant off the coast, particularly around Higgin’s Beach, Drakes Island, and the jetties of Wells Harbor. Striped bass are also on the move, with big schools found off York and in the Piscataqua River. These stripers are ranging from 3-10 pounds.
Catches:
Anglers reported excellent catches of pollock, haddock, and mackerel. Pollock were the stars of the show, with several anglers landing fish up to 12 pounds. Haddock and cod were also plentiful, though dogfish were a nuisance in some areas.
Best Lures and Bait:
For bluefish and striped bass, trolling plugs like X-Rap or Rapala Magnum, or using mackerel as live bait, has been highly effective. Soft plastics and tube-and-worm rigs are also working well, especially in transition zones and rock piles. For bottom fishing, cod flies and bait have been the go-to choices.
Hot Spots:
- Higgin’s Beach: This spot has been hot for bluefish, with big schools of bass busting bait just off the shore.
- Piscataqua River: The lower river spots, especially around Great Bay Marina, are producing stripers under dock and pier lights.
- Jeffrey’s Ledge: For those venturing offshore, this ledge has been yielding good numbers of pollock and haddock.
With mackerel omnipresent from the 2KR Can to the Isles of Shoals and into Maine, using them as bait or trolling near beaches and ledges should pay off in striper dividends. Keep an eye out for those transition zones and rock piles where bass tend to set up shop, and don’t hesitate to use loud topwater lures to locate schools. Happy fishing
- Broadcast on:
- 07 Oct 2024
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