Mid-Spring Fishing Frenzy: Haddock Dominance, Flounder Resurgence, and Striped Bass Action in Maine's Coastal Waters

April 14, 2025, brings classic spring fishing opportunities to the waters in and around the Atlantic Ocean off Maine, as warming temperatures stir up marine life and make for exciting angling. Sunrise this morning was at 5:50 AM, and sunset will occur at 7:16 PM. The tidal report for today shows a high tide in Bar Harbor at 12:40 PM, reaching 10.34 feet, and a low tide at 6:41 PM, dropping to 1.16 feet. Similar tides are reflected in Gardiner on the Kennebec River, with a high tide at 4:25 PM at 5.5 feet and a low tide around 11:01 PM at 0.92 feet. These conditions are perfect for targeting various fish species during transitions.

As we enter mid-spring, the fish activity in Maine’s coastal waters is heating up. Haddock fishing is exceptional this season, with trophy-sized catches reported offshore. Groundfish like cod will remain restricted until May, but haddock enthusiasts are making the most of the current opportunities. Additionally, flounder are beginning to appear in shallower waters, while holdover striped bass, known as schoolies, are actively feeding as rivers warm up and herring push into the systems.

Bluefish and tautog action is slowly improving along the coast, and anglers are hopeful for an increase in both black drum and chopper blues as the month progresses. Freshwater enthusiasts will find plenty of action with shad running upriver and white perch finishing their spawn and moving back downstream.

For gear, soft plastic paddletails, bucktails, and shrimp lures are fantastic choices for saltwater action. Striped bass anglers in particular are finding success with lures like the Rapala Skitter Walk and Storm WildEye Swim Shad. Haddock and groundfish are responding well to deep jigs tipped with squid or cut bait. For tautog, green crabs remain the go-to bait around rocky structures and pilings.

If you’re looking for hotspots today, consider heading to Jeffreys Ledge for haddock and flounder—the action has been consistent with reports of excellent catches. Closer to shore, the Kennebec River is a prime location for holdover striped bass, particularly near Bath as herring activity increases.

With mild weather and promising fish activity, it’s shaping up to be a great day on the water. Tight lines, and may your nets be heavy!