Maine's Atlantic Fishing Report: Catching Cod, Haddock, and More in Winter 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