• Maine's Coastal Fishing Report: Cod, Haddock, and Smelt Bait in Chilly February Waters

  • Feb 12 2025
  • Durée: 3 min
  • Podcast

Maine's Coastal Fishing Report: Cod, Haddock, and Smelt Bait in Chilly February Waters

  • Résumé

  • 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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