Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene in and around the Atlantic Ocean off Maine, as of today, February 12, 2025.
First off, let's talk about the weather and the timing. Today, sunrise is at 6:39 AM, and sunset is at 5:02 PM. These transitional periods are crucial for fishing, as many fish are more active during these times. The cold weather has been quite brisk, but don't let that deter you; species like cod and haddock are still active and worth targeting.
For those planning their day around the tides, here's what you need to know. In Rockland, today's tidal schedule is as follows: the low tide is at 4:30 AM with a water level of 0.2 meters (0.66 feet), the high tide is at 10:47 AM reaching 3.4 meters (11.14 feet), the next low tide is at 5:06 PM with a water level of -0.13 meters (-0.42 feet), and the final high tide of the day is at 11:21 PM at 3.03 meters (9.94 feet)[2].
Despite the cold, recent catches have been decent, particularly in areas like the western Gulf of Maine. Cod and haddock are the main targets here, but remember that their numbers are regulated. For the 2025 season, the recreational total quota for cod is set at 99 metric tons, and for haddock, it's 1,075 metric tons. So, be mindful of your catch limits to avoid exceeding these quotas.
When it comes to lures and bait, you'll want to use what works best for deep-sea fishing. Jigs tipped with clams or mackerel are often very effective for cod and haddock. If you prefer artificial lures, metal jigs or soft plastic lures that mimic baitfish can also work well. For surf fishing, artificial lures such as spoons, plugs, and soft plastics are productive, especially during the changing tides.
Now, let's talk about some hot spots. If you're looking to brave the cold for some cod and haddock, the western Gulf of Maine is a good place to start. Areas around the coast, particularly where the water drops off into deeper zones, tend to hold these fish. Another spot worth considering is the waters off Bar Harbor, where the tidal changes can bring fish into more accessible areas.
Recently, there have been some impressive catches. For instance, a 9-pound Maine state trophy haddock was caught in the area, which is a great indicator of the quality of fish you can find here.
In summary, today's fishing in the Atlantic Ocean off Maine looks promising, especially if you're after cod and haddock. Be sure to check the tide times, respect the catch limits, and use the right lures and bait to increase your chances of a successful catch. Stay warm and tight lines