Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis)

The striped bass is the most sought after game fish in the North East. These fish can grow up to 5’ and weigh in upwards of 75 lbs. Striped bass can be found on the rocky coast, in rivers, estuaries, and off the beaches. They can be targeted with baits, lures, trolling rigs, etc. This makes them a lot of fun to chase and they put up a great fight. An incredibly important species to the health of our oceans and inshore habitats. Due to the population being overfished we try and practice catch & release only.

Mackerel (Scomber scombrus)

The Atlantic Mackerel are widely spread in Maine, typically range from 8-16”,1-2lbs, and are one of the most beautiful fish around. They travel in large schools, and are an important baitfish in the Gulf of Maine. They are a lot of fun for the kids or anyone to fish for! And although many stick their nose up to Mackerel, we find them to be good table fare, especially smoked or grilled. Stripers also find them to be a good meal!

Bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix)

The bluefish is a migratory fish whose upper range is Maine and we occasionally get large schools of them up here. These fish can get up to 30 inches with some rare ones exceeding 30lbs. They have sharp teeth and will cut through lines and lures so handle with care! We’ll always be happy to hook up with a blue fish. Pound for pound these fish put up a big fight and like to run!

Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua)

The Atlantic Cod is a deep water fish whose population collapsed by the 1990’s from centuries of overfishing. Today we are still able to target these fish that can get as big as 70” and upwards of 80lbs. However the charter season is only 2 months in the fall and size/bag limits can change year to year. They are a lot of fun to crank up from the bottom and one of the most well loved fish to eat!

Haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus)

Haddock are a member of the Cod family but are generally smaller. Their populations have not been depleted like that of the Cod so their season is almost year round with daily limits exceeding a dozen fish. Typically they range in size from 1’- 2’ and 2 - 8lbs. They are also found in deeper water and are a lot of fun to catch while also great eating!

Atlantic Pollock (Pollachius virens)

The Atlantic Pollock is another deep water bottom fish that can grow up to 35+” and weigh up to 35+lbs but average around 5-15lbs. This fishery is not overfished and can be fished year round with little to no size or bag limits. Inshore we will see smaller harbor pollock but offshore there are some nice sized pollock worthy of space in the cooler.

Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus)

These giant, highly migratory fish are some of the fastest and largest game fish on the planet. Possibly the most prized food fish in the ocean. Bluefin tuna range in size but giant bluefin can range from 350lbs in upwards of 1500lbs! Targeting giant bluefin takes time, dedication, and the fight can last for hours. To experience the thrill of catching one of these fish is something that should be on any angler or adventurers bucket list.

Sharks (Various species)

There are many species of sharks that are found in the Atlantic there are 8 commonly found in Maine: Shortfin Mako, Thresher, Blue, Porbeagle, White, Sand Tiger, Basking, and Spiny Dogfish. We are able to target most of these and most often see Blues and Porbeagles. Sharks are apex predators and are vital to a healthy ecosystem. They are also thrilling to see and fish for!

Other Species We May Catch:

Menhaden, Herring, Squid, American Eels, Cusk, Hake, Monkfish, Sea Raven, Sculpin, Acadian Redfish, Black Sea Bass, Cunner, Eel Pout, Wolffish, Halibut, Flounder, American Shad, and you never know what type of crab or sea anemone might get snagged!

Other Wildlife:

While on the water you are likely to see a variety of marine life so keep your eyes out for: Porpoises, Dolphins, Pilot Whales, Whales (Minke, Humpback, North Atlantic Right, Finback), Harbor Seals, Gray Seals, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola), Jelly Fish, Osprey, Eagles, and a variety of other sea birds. The Gulf of Maine is a beautiful place to explore nature and see some incredible wildlife while trying to land your personal best or fill a cooler!

Drawings done by Roz Davis and provided courtesy of the Maine Department of Marine Resources Recreational Fisheries program and the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund.

Other Wildlife Image from Biodiversity Heritage Collection.