Episodes

  • 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 mins
  • 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 mins
  • Frigid Fishing in Maine's Atlantic: Navigating Tides, Quotas, and Hot Spots for Cod and Haddock

    Frigid Fishing in Maine's Atlantic: Navigating Tides, Quotas, and Hot Spots for Cod and Haddock
    Feb 5 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 5th, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather. We're still in the midst of a cold snap that's been gripping the region, making it perfect for those hardy souls who brave the sea. The cold weather has pushed many fish to deeper waters, but don't worry, there's still plenty of action to be had.

    ### Tidal Report
    For those fishing in coastal areas like Fort Popham on the Kennebec River, here are the tide times for today:
    - High Tide: 00:46 AM at 9.05 ft
    - Low Tide: 6:42 AM at -0.48 ft
    - High Tide: 1:00 PM at 9.75 ft
    - Low Tide: 7:11 PM at -1.01 ft
    These tides can significantly impact your fishing, especially if you're targeting species that are sensitive to tidal changes.

    If you're fishing around Bar Harbor, the tide times are a bit different:
    - High Tide: 3:34 AM at 11.47 ft
    - Low Tide: 10:02 AM at -0.01 ft
    - High Tide: 4:11 PM at 10.13 ft
    - Low Tide: 10:19 PM at 0.73 ft

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Today, sunrise is at 6:46 AM, and sunset is at 4:48 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trips, as many fish are more active during these transitional periods.

    ### Fish Activity
    In the Atlantic Ocean off Maine, species like cod and haddock are still active, although their numbers are regulated to ensure sustainability. 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.

    ### Recent Catches
    Recently, there have been reports of decent catches of cod and haddock, particularly in areas like the western Gulf of Maine. However, it's important to note that the fish are not as abundant as they once were, and 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.

    ### Hot Spots
    If you're looking for some hot spots, consider heading to the western Gulf of Maine. This area has been producing some good catches of cod and haddock. Another spot is around Fort Popham on the Kennebec River, where the tidal changes can bring in a variety of fish.

    In summary, while the cold weather presents some challenges, it also brings opportunities for those willing to brave the elements. Be mindful of the tide times, catch limits, and use the right lures and bait to increase your chances of landing some great catches. Stay warm and tight lines
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    4 mins
  • Maine Fishing Forecast: Cod and Haddock Thrive Amidst Brisk Conditions

    Maine Fishing Forecast: Cod and Haddock Thrive Amidst Brisk Conditions
    Feb 3 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 February 3, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather and the timing. Today, sunrise is at 6:55 AM, and sunset is at 4:50 PM. These transitional periods are crucial for fishing, as many fish are more active during these times. The cold weather has been quite brisk, pushing many fish to deeper waters, but 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 Portland, Maine, today's high tides are at 8:57 AM and 9:18 PM, with water levels reaching 9.4 and 10.7 feet respectively. The low tides are at 2:45 PM and 2:58 PM, with water levels at -0.1 and 0.2 feet[4].

    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 it's important to 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. This means being mindful of your catch limits to avoid exceeding these quotas[1][5].

    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[1].

    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[2].

    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 mins
  • Ice Fishing in Maine's Coastal and Inland Waters - Cod, Haddock, Trout, Salmon, and More

    Ice Fishing in Maine's Coastal and Inland Waters - Cod, Haddock, Trout, Salmon, and More
    Feb 2 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 2, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather and tidal conditions. As of today, the weather is crisp and cold, just what we need for a good old-fashioned winter fishing trip. The tides for Bar Harbor, which are a good indicator for the coastal areas, show a high tide at 00:59 AM with a height of 3.58 meters, followed by a low tide at 7:11 AM with a height of -0.16 meters. The next high tide is at 1:19 PM with a height of 3.65 meters, and the final low tide of the day is at 7:36 PM with a height of -0.26 meters[2].

    Sunrise today is at 6:49 AM, and sunset is at 4:44 PM, giving us a good window to get out on the ice or into the coastal waters.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. For those venturing into the coastal waters, the recent reports indicate that cod and haddock are still the main targets. However, it's important to note the new regulations for 2025, which include a sub-ACL of 99 metric tons for cod and 1,075 metric tons for haddock. The proposed regulations suggest a minimum legal cod size of 22 inches and a minimum legal haddock size of 17 inches to help stay within these quotas[3].

    If you're looking to catch some cod or haddock, the best lures to use are typically jigs and baited hooks. For cod, using clams or herring as bait can be very effective. For haddock, squid or shrimp often work well.

    For a more inland ice fishing experience, the Rangeley Lakes Region and the Fish River Lakes Region are hot spots right now. In the Rangeley Lakes Region, Porter Lake is a must-visit. It's stocked with 1,500 brook trout and 300 landlocked salmon each fall, plus 75 retired brood stock brook trout that can make for a memorable catch. You can target brook trout near shore or venture out for landlocked salmon and lake trout. Chain pickerel and smallmouth bass are also abundant in the shallow coves and weedy shorelines[1].

    Another great spot is Wesserunsett Lake, which is stocked yearly with 1,700 fall yearling brown trout and 2,200 fall yearling brook trout. This lake also has a great fishery for large white perch and both large and smallmouth bass[1].

    In the Fish River Lakes Region, Eagle Lake is known for producing very large togue, with catches in the 10-20 pound range. Long Lake is where you'll find the largest salmon, typically in the 6-7 pound range. Trafton and Durepo lakes, along with Monson Pond, are also open to ice fishing and are stocked with brook trout[1].

    For ice fishing, using small jigs tipped with bait like worms or minnows can be very effective for brook trout and landlocked salmon. For white perch, jigging near the bottom in 15-30 feet of water is a good strategy.

    So, bundle up and get out there – the fish are waiting, and the conditions are perfect for a great day of fishing in Maine. Tight lines
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    4 mins
  • Maine's Atlantic Fishing Report: Braving the Cold for Cod and Haddock

    Maine's Atlantic Fishing Report: Braving the Cold for Cod and Haddock
    Feb 1 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 1st, 2025.

    First off, let's talk about the weather. We're in the midst of a cold snap that's been gripping the region, which is perfect for ice fishing in the inland lakes but can be a bit 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, here are the tide times for today:
    - High Tide: 00:46 AM at 9.05 ft
    - Low Tide: 6:42 AM at -0.48 ft
    - High Tide: 1:00 PM at 9.75 ft
    - Low Tide: 7:11 PM at -1.01 ft
    These tides can significantly impact your fishing, especially if you're targeting species that are sensitive to tidal changes[5].

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Today, sunrise is at 6:55 AM, and sunset is at 4:50 PM. These times are crucial for planning your fishing trips, as many fish are more active during these transitional periods.

    ### Fish Activity
    In the Atlantic Ocean off Maine, the cold weather has pushed many fish to deeper waters. However, species like cod and haddock are still active, although their numbers are regulated to ensure sustainability. 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[4].

    ### Recent Catches
    Recently, there have been reports of decent catches of cod and haddock, particularly in areas like the western Gulf of Maine. However, it's important to note that the fish are not as abundant as they once were, and 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[3].

    ### Hot Spots
    If you're looking for some hot spots, here are a couple of recommendations:

    1. **Fort Popham, Kennebec River**: This area is known for its strong tidal currents, which attract a variety of fish species. The structure around the fort and the river mouth can be particularly good for cod and haddock.
    2. **Western Gulf of Maine**: This region, including areas around Cape Cod and Georges Bank, is known for its rich fish populations. However, be aware of the fishing regulations and the need to conserve these resources.

    In conclusion, while the weather might be cold, the fishing in and around Maine's Atlantic coast can still be quite rewarding. Make sure to check the tide times, follow the fishing regulations, and use the right lures and bait to increase your chances of a successful catch. Stay warm and tight lines
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    4 mins
  • Chilly January Fishing Forecast: Smelt, Trout, and Pike Await Anglers in Maine's Waterways

    Chilly January Fishing Forecast: Smelt, Trout, and Pike Await Anglers in Maine's Waterways
    Jan 31 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, Maine, for this chilly January 31st.

    First off, let's talk about the tides. For those of you planning to hit the waters around Rockland, here are the tide times for today: low tide at 5:42 AM, high tide at 11:52 AM, low tide again at 6:18 PM, and high tide once more at 11:46 PM. Over at Fort Popham on the Kennebec River, you're looking at a high tide at 12:13 AM, low tide at 5:54 AM, another high tide at 12:13 PM, and a final low tide at 6:27 PM[2][5].

    The weather is crisp, with temperatures barely climbing out of the teens, but that's perfect for ice fishing and some saltwater action. Sunrise today is at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 4:45 PM.

    Now, let's dive into the fish activity. While the saltwater scene is a bit quiet due to the cold, there's still some action to be had. In the Kennebec River and Merrymeeting Bay region, smelt are still staging in larger portions, and anglers are setting up their smelt camp shacks to take advantage of this. These smelt are attracting a variety of fish, including salmonoids, which are fond of them[1].

    For those venturing into freshwater, Sebago Lake is starting to lock up with ice, and areas a mile out are already sporting ice. This bodes well for ice fishing, with reports of togue (lake trout) being caught close to shore as they push bait into shoal water. Don't forget to set up traps for pike as well, as they prowl these waters[1].

    If you're looking for some hot spots, consider heading to Sebago Lake, where you can target lake trout and pike. Another great spot is the Exeter River, which is locked in with ice and dotted with bob houses catching smelt. For a more diverse catch, check out Thomas Pond, Crescent Lake, Highland Lake, and Chaffin Pond, all of which hold a mix of warm water species and some stocked brook trout[1].

    When it comes to lures and bait, for ice fishing on Sebago Lake, using sucker bait for pike and smelt for salmonoids is a good strategy. For lake trout, try using 3-pound fluorocarbon and white Clam blade spoons, as recommended by Tim Moore of TimMooreOutdoors[1].

    In summary, while the cold weather might be biting, the fishing opportunities around Maine are heating up. Whether you're on the ice or braving the saltwater, there's plenty of action to be found. So bundle up, grab your gear, and get out there – the fish are waiting
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    3 mins
  • Tidal Report, Cod Limits, and Striper Action - Your Maine Fishing Forecast for January 30, 2025

    Tidal Report, Cod Limits, and Striper Action - Your Maine Fishing Forecast for January 30, 2025
    Jan 30 2025
    Hello there, fellow anglers This is Artificial Lure, your go-to expert for all things fishing in and around the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the beautiful state of Maine. Today, January 30, 2025, promises to be an interesting day for those of us eager to cast our lines.

    First off, let's take a look at the tidal report for Fort Popham, Kennebec River, which is a good indicator for the coastal waters of Maine. According to the tide times, we have a low tide at 5:09 AM and another at 5:45 PM, with high tides at 11:28 AM. These tidal shifts can significantly impact fish activity, especially for species like striped bass and cod, which tend to be more active during the changing tides.

    The weather today is quite chilly, typical for this time of year, with sunrise at 6:57 AM and sunset at 4:47 PM. The cold weather might make the fish a bit sluggish, but that doesn't mean they're not biting. In fact, this time of year can be excellent for catching cod and haddock, especially with the new recreational measures set by NOAA Fisheries.

    Speaking of which, NOAA Fisheries has recently updated the recreational fishing measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock. For cod, the minimum size has been increased to 23 inches, and for haddock, it's now 18 inches with a possession limit of 15 fish per person for private anglers. These changes are in effect from July 24, 2024, through April 30, 2025, and will help ensure sustainable fishing practices.

    Now, let's talk about the fish activity. Recently, there has been good action along the southern Maine coast, particularly for striped bass. Places like Camp Ellis, Ferry Beach, and Higgins Beach have been hot spots, with anglers catching some impressive stripers. For cod and haddock, areas around the Gulf of Maine have been productive, especially near the rocky structures and reefs.

    When it comes to lures and bait, artificial lures can be very effective, especially for striped bass. Soft plastic baits, jigs, and spoons are great choices. For cod and haddock, live or cut bait such as clams, mackerel, or herring can be very enticing. However, if you prefer artificial lures, metal jigs and cod jigs with a curly tail can mimic the natural prey these fish are looking for.

    If you're looking for some specific hot spots, I highly recommend checking out the Kennebunk River and the adjacent beaches. The area just inside the breakwater of the Kennebunk River is a great spot for casting lures or trolling a tube and worm. Another excellent spot is Higgins Beach, which is known for its big fish action, especially with live eels or bunker.

    In summary, today's fishing in Maine's Atlantic waters looks promising, especially with the right knowledge of tides, fish activity, and the best lures and bait to use. Stay warm, stay patient, and you might just land yourself a beauty. Tight lines, everyone
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    3 mins