Springtime Stripers and Mackerel: A Fishing Report from the Coast of Maine

Spring is officially underway, and the fishing scene in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Maine is heating up! On this bright, partly cloudy day, March 28, 2025, locals are buzzing about the returns of migratory fish and the promise of great catches.

Today's **Tidal Report** indicates a high tide this morning at 2:30 AM (4.43 feet) and again at 2:51 PM (4.75 feet). The low tide will occur at 10:03 AM and again at 10:30 PM. Sunrise was at 6:26 AM and sunset will be at 7:02 PM, giving anglers a solid 12 hours of fishing light.

The **weather** is pleasant, with temperatures in the mid-50s and a light southwest breeze. Conditions are ideal for a day on the water, so grab your gear and head out!

Recently, anglers have been reporting solid catches of striped bass in the 20-30 inch range. These fish are particularly active near river mouths and rocky shorelines. Schools of mackerel are also appearing offshore, providing exciting opportunities for those targeting multiple species. Reports from the past week show consistent action, especially around hotspots like the **Kennebec River mouth** and **Pemaquid Point**.

For the best fishing results, I've got some suggestions on **lures and bait**. White bucktail jigs and soft plastic paddletails in lighter colors are currently a hit for stripers. Mackerel fishermen might consider using a Sabiki rig or small metal jigs to attract schools. If you prefer traditional bait, fresh clams or sea worms are effective, and cut mackerel works wonders for stripers.

As dusk approaches, you might also want to explore **cusk fishing**, which has been surprisingly fruitful. This bottom-dweller is often caught at night with dead baits near humps or shoals.

In summary, today’s fishing conditions are exciting, with the striped bass and mackerel making their return and plenty of opportunities for a successful outing. Don't miss your chance to reel in a big one—check out the recommended hotspots and get your bait ready. Happy fishing!