"Spring Stripers and Offshore Haddock: Your Maine Fishing Report for April 12, 2025"

Good morning anglers! Here’s your Maine fishing report for Saturday, April 12, 2025, focusing on the Atlantic waters off the coast.

The tides today are favorable for fishing, with low tide at 5:43 AM and 5:55 PM and high tide peaking at 11:54 AM at 9.25 feet in Portland. Sunrise was at 6:02 AM, and you’ll have plenty of daylight until sunset at 7:21 PM. The weather is shaping up to be cool and brisk, with morning temperatures in the low 40s climbing to the mid-50s by afternoon. Light winds from the southwest will make for comfortable fishing conditions, so get ready to cast!

The fishing scene is heating up as spring takes hold. Nearshore waters are seeing early striped bass activity, especially around herring runs and estuaries. Bloodworms, sandworms, and fresh-cut bunker remain the top baits for stripers. Artificial lures, such as paddletails, jerkbaits, and bucktail jigs, are also working well near sandy beaches and inlets. For groundfish enthusiasts, haddock action continues to be solid offshore, with clams and squid proving effective on simple rigs.

Recent reports highlight striped bass catches in Saco Bay, where the fish are moving shallow and actively feeding. Offshore, haddock fishing has been productive around Jeffreys Ledge and other deep ledges. Anglers have also noted mackerel beginning to show nearshore, presenting an excellent live bait option for targeting larger gamefish.

If you’re looking for hot spots, Reid State Park and the estuaries around the Kennebunk River are reliable options for striper action. For haddock, targeting Jeffreys Ledge or other offshore grounds is a surefire bet.

As far as lures go, paddletails and jerkbaits in natural baitfish colors are performing well for nearshore stripers, while gold spoons and bucktail jigs are solid choices for variety. Offshore anglers targeting groundfish should stick to baited jigs tipped with clams or squid for consistent results.

With fish activity increasing as the waters slowly warm, today is a great opportunity to hit the water and make the most of the season. Dress warmly, stay safe, and enjoy the day. Tight lines!