Épisodes

  • Fishing Forecast: Maine's Atlantic Coasts and Ice Fishing Hotspots for February 15, 2025

    Fishing Forecast: Maine's Atlantic Coasts and Ice Fishing Hotspots for February 15, 2025
    Feb 15 2025
    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 in Maine, specifically for today, February 15, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the tides. For those of you planning to hit the waters around Bar Harbor, here are the tide times for today: High tide is at 00:17 AM and again at 12:31 PM, with heights of 10.7 ft and 10.98 ft respectively. The low tides are at 6:25 AM and 6:46 PM, with heights of 0.43 ft and 0.26 ft[2].

    The weather is looking crisp, with a cold snap that's been lingering, making the ice fishing conditions in northern Maine quite favorable. However, if you're heading out to the coastal areas, be prepared for chilly winds and possibly some light snow flurries, given the recent snowfall.

    Sunrise today is at 6:32 AM, and sunset will be at 5:02 PM, giving you a good window to get out and catch some fish.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. For those interested in deep-sea fishing, the western Gulf of Maine has some regulations to keep in mind. The recreational total quota for cod is set at 99 metric tons, and for haddock, it's 1,075 metric tons for the 2025 season. The proposed regulations include a minimum legal cod size of 22" and haddock size of 17"[5].

    If you're targeting striped bass, the Mid-Coast region is your best bet. The Kennebec River, particularly around the mouth near Popham Beach and upriver, is a hotspot for striped bass. The St. George River in Thomaston is another great spot, known for its large mudflats and deeper channels that attract these fish. For striped bass, you can't go wrong with sluggos and spooks for spin fishing, or fly fishing with streamers[3].

    For those who prefer ice fishing, northern Maine is where you want to be. The recent cold snap has made the ice conditions excellent, especially around Long Pond, Eagle Lake, and the Fish River Lakes Region. Eagle Lake is producing some very large togue in the 10-20 pound range, and Long Lake is known for its 6-7 pound salmon. White perch, an invasive but tasty species, are abundant in the Fish River Chain of lakes and can be caught by jigging near the bottom in 15-30 feet of water[1].

    In terms of lures and bait, for striped bass, use those sluggos and spooks, or if you're fly fishing, go with streamers that mimic baitfish. For ice fishing, small jigs and bait like worms or minnows work well for brook trout and togue.

    Hot spots for today include the Kennebec River for striped bass and Eagle Lake for those massive togue. If you're looking for a more relaxed ice fishing experience, Trafton and Durepo lakes in Limestone, and Monson Pond in Fort Fairfield, are stocked with brook trout and are now open to ice fishing.

    So, bundle up, grab your gear, and get out there – it's a great day to catch some fish in Maine Tight lines
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    3 min
  • Fishing Forecast for Rockland, Maine: Tides, Weather, and Fish Activity on Feb 14, 2025

    Fishing Forecast for Rockland, Maine: Tides, Weather, and Fish Activity on Feb 14, 2025
    Feb 14 2025
    Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on today's fishing conditions in and around the Atlantic Ocean, Maine, as of February 14th, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the tides. For Rockland, Maine, today's tide times are as follows: high tide at 12:11 AM with a height of 9.95 feet, low tide at 5:56 AM with 0.65 feet, another high tide at 12:11 PM with 10.65 feet, and a low tide at 6:24 PM with just 0.02 feet[2].

    The weather is looking decent, with sunrise at 6:36 AM and sunset at 5:04 PM. The moon is setting at 7:36 AM and rising again at 7:25 PM, which could influence fish activity around these times.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. The Atlantic cod, while not as abundant as they once were due to overfishing, are still present in these waters. According to the latest assessments, both the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank stocks of cod are overfished, but fishing is still allowed at reduced levels[1].

    Recently, the waters around Maine have seen a mix of fish species. Cod, although less common, can still be caught, especially around rocky peaks and wrecks. Other species like pollack and coalfish are more prevalent, making up a significant portion of the catch[3].

    For lures, the best approach often depends on the water conditions. Given the tidal movements and potential for varying water clarity, lures that offer some vibration can be effective, especially in murky waters. In clearer conditions, more realistic and finer lures tend to work better, particularly around dawn and dusk when fish are most active[3].

    If you're looking for bait, live bait is always a good option, but artificial lures can be just as effective. For cod and other bottom-dwellers, jigs and soft plastics that mimic their natural prey can be very enticing.

    As for hot spots, I recommend checking out the areas around rocky peaks and wrecks. These spots have historically produced good catches of cod, pollack, and coalfish. Another good spot is near the coastal waters off Rockland, where the changing tides can bring in a variety of fish species.

    In summary, today's fishing in Maine's Atlantic waters looks promising, especially if you time your trips around the tidal changes and moon phases. Use the right lures and bait, and you might just find yourself hauling in some impressive catches. Happy fishing, and tight lines
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    3 min
  • Atlantic Ocean Fishing Off Maine in 2025: Catch Cod and Haddock During the Peak Seasons

    Atlantic Ocean Fishing Off Maine in 2025: Catch Cod and Haddock During the Peak Seasons
    Feb 12 2025
    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
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    3 min
  • Maine's Coastal Fishing Report: Cod, Haddock, and Smelt Bait in Chilly February Waters

    Maine's Coastal Fishing Report: Cod, Haddock, and Smelt Bait in Chilly February Waters
    Feb 12 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers It's Artificial Lure here, and I'm excited to share today's fishing report for the waters around Maine, particularly focusing on the Atlantic Ocean and its adjacent areas.

    First off, let's talk about the tide. As of today, February 12, 2025, the tide times for Freeport, which is a good indicator for the coastal areas, are as follows: low tide at 4:50 AM, high tide at 11:07 AM, low tide again at 5:26 PM, and high tide at 11:40 PM. Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset is at 5:06 PM[2].

    The weather has been quite favorable for ice fishing in the inland lakes, but for those venturing into the Atlantic or coastal areas, it's a different story. The cold snap has kept the waters chilly, but this can be beneficial for certain species. However, with the lack of significant snow cover, the ice on inland lakes is solid, which might draw some anglers away from the saltwater.

    For those braving the Atlantic, the fish activity has been decent, especially for species like cod and haddock. These fish are often found in deeper waters but can be caught using the right bait and lures. Smelt, which are abundant in the coastal waters and estuaries, make excellent bait for these species. Freshly sliced or squished dead fish on the bottom can also entice bites from cod and other bottom-dwellers[4].

    If you're looking for a hot spot, consider the areas around Portland and Freeport. The rocky shores and reefs here are known for holding a variety of fish, including striped bass, although they might be less active in the colder waters. For a more consistent catch, head to the estuaries and bays where smelt and other baitfish congregate. Places like the Kennebec River and Merrymeeting Bay are bustling with smelt camps, and these areas are great for catching species like salmonoids and even some striped bass[4].

    In terms of lures, while artificial lures can be effective, nothing beats the real thing. Dead shrimp, for instance, are a staple in many saltwater fisheries and can attract a wide range of species. However, if you prefer artificial lures, jigs and small soft plastics can work well, especially when jigged near the bottom where the fish are likely to be[3].

    For a specific recommendation, try the waters around South Portland Gardens or the islands off the coast of Freeport. These areas have a mix of rocky and sandy bottoms that attract a variety of fish. Use a combination of smelt and dead fish as bait, and don't be afraid to experiment with different depths and presentations.

    In summary, while the cold weather might make the fishing a bit more challenging, the right bait and lures can make all the difference. Keep an eye on the tides, and don't hesitate to try out the smelt and dead fish baits in the coastal areas. Happy fishing, and tight lines
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    3 min
  • Maine's Atlantic Fishing Report: Catching Cod, Haddock, and More in Winter 2025

    Maine's Atlantic Fishing Report: Catching Cod, Haddock, and More in Winter 2025
    Feb 10 2025
    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 in Maine, as of February 10, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather and tidal conditions. Today, you can expect a crisp winter morning with temperatures that are perfect for bundling up and hitting the ice or the coastal waters. According to the tide forecasts, for areas like Cutler, Little River, the high tide is at 8:48 AM with a height of 14.11 feet, and the low tide is at 3:10 PM with a height of just 0.04 feet[2].

    If you're planning to fish in the coastal areas, the sunrise is at 6:35 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:50 PM. These times are crucial for timing your fishing trips, especially if you're targeting species that are active during these periods.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. For those venturing into the Gulf of Maine, the recreational fishing scene is gearing up for the new season. The sub-ACL (recreational total quota) for cod and haddock has been set, with 99 metric tons for cod and 1,075 metric tons for haddock for the 2025 season. This means anglers will need to be mindful of their catch limits to avoid exceeding these quotas[3].

    In terms of recent catches, the coastal waters have been producing some good results. For cod and haddock, the proposed regulations suggest a minimum size limit of 22 inches for cod and 17 inches for haddock, which should help in sustaining the fish populations. Anglers have been successful in catching these species, especially during the September and October cod season last year[3].

    For those looking to try their luck in the deeper waters, the western Gulf of Maine, including areas around Cape Cod and Georges Bank, are known for their rich fishery. However, it's important to note the concerns about the cod spawning season and the potential impact of early fishing on these populations.

    If you prefer to stay closer to shore or try some ice fishing, the inland lakes and rivers are also offering some great opportunities. While this report focuses on the Atlantic Ocean, it's worth mentioning that lakes like Porter Lake and Wesserunsett Lake are stocked with brook trout, landlocked salmon, and other species, providing excellent ice fishing conditions this time of year[1].

    ### Hot Spots

    1. **Offshore Gulf of Maine**: For those with the gear and experience, the western Gulf of Maine is a hotspot for cod and haddock. Use lures like jigs and bait such as clams or herring to attract these bottom-dwellers.
    2. **Coastal Areas near Cutler, Little River**: If you're looking for a more accessible spot, the coastal areas around Cutler and Little River can offer good catches of smaller species like mackerel and pollock. Use small jigs or spoons and bait like squid or shrimp.

    ### Best Lures and Bait

    - **Jigs**: Effective for cod and haddock, especially when tipped with bait like clams or herring.
    - **Spoons**: Good for catching mackerel and pollock in the coastal areas.
    - **Bait**: Clams, herring, squid, and shrimp are all good options depending on the species you're targeting.

    In summary, the fishing in and around the Atlantic Ocean in Maine is looking promising, with careful attention needed to the new regulations and quotas. Make sure to bundle up, check the tides, and choose the right lures and bait to increase your chances of a successful catch. Tight lines, everyone
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    4 min
  • Winter Fishing in Maine: Tides, Hotspots, and Trophy Haddock

    Winter Fishing in Maine: Tides, Hotspots, and Trophy Haddock
    Feb 9 2025
    Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, your go-to expert for all things fishing in and around Maine. Today, February 9th, 2025, promises to be an exciting day for those of us eager to cast our lines into the Atlantic Ocean and its adjacent waters.

    First off, let's take a look at the tidal report for Bar Harbor, which will give us a good idea of what to expect in the coastal areas. According to the tide times, we have a high tide at 7:55 AM with a height of 11.15 feet, followed by a low tide at 2:27 PM with a height of -0.07 feet. The next high tide will be at 8:39 PM, reaching 9.85 feet[2].

    The weather is looking crisp and cold, perfect for a winter fishing trip. With sunrise at 6:40 AM and sunset at 4:53 PM, we've got a good window to get out there and catch some fish.

    For those venturing into the Atlantic, deep-sea fishing is a great option. Recently, anglers have had success catching haddock, with a notable 9-pound Maine state trophy haddock caught just a few days ago[3]. If you're after haddock, using clams or herring as bait can be very effective. For lures, try using jigs or spoons that mimic the appearance and movement of these baits.

    If you prefer to stay closer to shore or explore the coastal lakes and ponds, there are plenty of opportunities as well. In the Belgrade Lakes Region, waters like Echo Lake, Maranacook Lake, and Damariscotta Lake are great spots for catching lake trout (togue). Live bait such as smelt or shiners works well, but jigging with lures like Swedish Pimples or Kastmaster spoons can also increase your chances of landing a memorable fish[1].

    For a more remote and adventurous trip, consider heading to the Moosehead Lake Region. Here, you can try your luck at Big Houston Pond or Lobster Lake, which are open during February and offer opportunities to catch landlocked salmon, lake trout, and brook trout. These waters require a bit more effort to reach but can be very rewarding[1].

    In terms of hot spots, Porter Lake in the Rangeley Lakes Region is a must-visit. This lake is stocked with brook trout and landlocked salmon, and its easy access makes it a great spot for families or those without snowmobiles. You can target brook trout near shore or venture out for lake trout and salmon. Chain pickerel and smallmouth bass can also be found in the shallow coves and weedy shorelines[1].

    So, grab your gear, bundle up, and get out there The fish are waiting, and with the right bait and lures, you're bound to have a successful and enjoyable day on the water. Tight lines, everyone
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    3 min
  • Fishing the Atlantic Off Maine: Cod, Haddock, and Tidal Trends in 2025

    Fishing the Atlantic Off Maine: Cod, Haddock, and Tidal Trends in 2025
    Feb 8 2025
    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 8, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather and the timing. Today, sunrise is at 6:42 AM, and sunset is at 4:52 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 Bar Harbor, today's high tides are at 6:51 AM and 7:39 PM, with water levels reaching 10.98 and 9.57 feet respectively. The low tides are at 12:34 AM and 1:26 PM, with water levels at 1.28 and 0.15 feet. These tidal changes can bring fish into more accessible areas, especially around the coast where the water drops off into deeper zones.

    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
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    3 min
  • Fishing the Gulf of Maine in February: Tackling Challenging Conditions for Cod and Haddock

    Fishing the Gulf of Maine in February: Tackling Challenging Conditions for Cod and Haddock
    Feb 7 2025
    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 in Maine, specifically for today, February 7th, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather. We're still in the grip of a cold snap that's been making things challenging for those venturing out into the ocean. However, for the hardy souls who brave the sea, the conditions can be rewarding.

    ### Tidal Report
    For those fishing in coastal areas like Fort Popham on the Kennebec River or Old Orchard Beach, here are the tide times for today:
    - At Old Orchard Beach, the high tide is at 6:02 AM at 9.31 feet, followed by a low tide at 12:32 PM at 0.18 feet. The second high tide is at 6:57 PM at 7.87 feet[2].
    - Sunrise today is at 6:50 AM, and sunset is at 5:01 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trips, as many fish are more active during these transitional periods.

    ### Fish Activity
    The cold weather has pushed many fish to deeper waters, but species like cod and haddock are still active. 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. This means anglers need to be mindful of their catch limits to avoid exceeding these quotas[1].

    ### Recent Catches
    Recently, there have been reports of decent catches of cod and haddock, particularly in areas like the western Gulf of Maine. While the fish are not as abundant as they once were, the fishing regulations are in place to protect these populations.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For deep-sea fishing in these waters, using the right lures and bait is crucial. For cod and haddock, jigs tipped with clams or mackerel are often very effective. If you're using artificial lures, metal jigs or soft plastic lures that mimic baitfish can also work well. For those who prefer surf fishing, artificial lures such as spoons, plugs, and soft plastics can be very productive, especially during the changing tides[1].

    ### Hot Spots
    If you're looking for some hot spots, consider the areas around Fort Popham on the Kennebec River. This location is known for its tidal changes, which can significantly impact your fishing, especially if you're targeting species sensitive to these changes. Another good spot is the western Gulf of Maine, where recent catches of cod and haddock have been reported.

    In summary, while the cold weather presents some challenges, the rewards are there for those willing to brave the conditions. Be sure to check the tide times, plan your trip around sunrise and sunset, and use the right lures and bait to increase your chances of a successful catch. Stay warm and tight lines
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    3 min