As of November 17, 2024, the fishing scene in the Atlantic Ocean off Maine is bustling despite the challenging weather conditions. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day out on the water.
### Weather and Tidal Conditions
The weather is quite rough, with winds blowing out of the northeast at over twenty knots and an overcast sky. The air temperature is around 61°F, and visibility is good despite some misty haze. Tides are significant, with high tide expected around mid-morning and low tide in the late afternoon.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at about 6:30 AM, and sunset will be around 4:00 PM, giving you a decent window to get out and fish.
### Fish Activity
Despite the harsh conditions, fish activity remains strong. Pollock are the stars of the show, with numerous large catches reported yesterday. Anglers on the Bunny Clark deep-sea fishing trip landed several pollock, including a 20-pound and a 19-pound catch, along with multiple fish in the 13-14 pound range[3].
Cod and haddock are also active, though in smaller numbers. There were reports of a few cod and haddock caught, along with cusk, mackerel, and even some blue sharks and dogfish[3].
### Best Lures and Bait
Jigs and cod flies have been the most effective lures, catching the most fish by far. Drifting and anchoring have both been successful methods, depending on the spot and the fish you're targeting[3].
### Hot Spots
One of the hot spots is the Gulf of Maine, particularly the areas around offshore ledges where pollock and tuna are pounding sea herring schools. Another good spot is the waters off the Maine coast, where anglers have been catching pollock, cod, and haddock despite the rough seas[1][3].
### Additional Tips
Be prepared for rough seas and potential seasickness. The conditions are challenging, but the rewards are worth it. Make sure to check the latest fishing regulations, as they apply equally to recreational and charter boats[3].
With patience and the right gear, you can have a successful and memorable fishing trip in the Atlantic Ocean off Maine today.