"Haddock Hotspots and Tidal Timing: A Maine Fishing Report for April 2, 2025"

Good morning anglers! Here’s your April 2, 2025, fishing report for the Atlantic waters off Maine. Conditions are looking promising for a great day on the water, so gear up and head out!

Today’s tidal movements are a mixed bag with the high tide peaking at 2:43 PM at 11.34 feet and the low falling to −1.28 feet at 8:30 AM. Plan your fishing times around these tides for maximum success. The sun rose early at 6:11 AM and will set at 7:01 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to reel in a solid catch.

Weather-wise, it’s a mild spring day with morning temperatures in the mid-40s, climbing into the low 50s by afternoon, and light winds from the southwest. Slightly overcast skies should make for good fishing conditions, so take advantage of the subdued lighting.

Anglers have recently reported excellent catches of haddock near offshore grounds. This species is active early in the season, and trophy specimens have been recorded. Cod fishing is still under regulation, but come May, conditions should open up further. Additionally, striped bass are expected to arrive inshore later this season, so stay tuned for updates on their migration.

For bait and lures, haddock have been biting on jigs tipped with clams or squid. If targeting striped bass or other gamefish like pollock and mackerel, reliable lures such as paddletails, jerkbaits, and bucktail jigs have been effective. Use a slow presentation, as the cold waters keep fish less aggressive. If conditions allow, trolling with live mackerel can yield great results for larger species.

Hotspots to try today include Jeffreys Ledge, a perennial favorite for groundfish like haddock and pollock, and Casco Bay, a great nearshore location for early-season mackerel and other baitfish. For freshwater enthusiasts, Grand Lake Stream is kicking off its open-water season with active landlocked salmon and brook trout in flowing waters.

Finally, a friendly reminder: wear layers and ensure safety on thinning ice or cold waters. Let someone know your plans, and bring that life jacket along. Tight lines, everyone!