If you're heading out to fish in the Atlantic Ocean off Maine today, here’s what you need to know:

First, let's talk about the conditions. Today, October 11, 2024, the sunrise is at 6:53 AM and sunset is at 5:47 PM. The tidal report shows a high tide at 8:15 AM and a low tide at 2:15 PM, which could affect fish activity.

The weather is looking decent, with partly cloudy skies and mild temperatures, making it a pleasant day to be out on the water. However, be prepared for some wind, especially in the afternoon.

Yesterday's fishing was quite productive. Anglers reported catching a good number of pollock, which have been abundant lately. Other catches included cod, haddock, redfish, and cusk. Blue sharks and dogfish were also present, but they didn't seem to be as much of a nuisance as they have been in previous days.

For the best results, consider using jigs and cod flies, as they worked well in the recent trips. Drifting seems to be the most effective method, especially when targeting pollock and haddock. If you prefer bait, mackerel are plentiful and can be used to great effect, especially for stripers and blues.

Some hot spots to consider are the areas around Jeffrey’s Ledge and Scantum, where pollock, haddock, and cod have been found in good numbers. For those targeting stripers and blues, the beaches around York, particularly Higgin’s Beach, and the lower Piscataqua River have been producing some great catches. Trolling an X-Rap or Rapala Magnum off Portsmouth, Seabrook, or Salisbury can also yield some toothy action from blues.

Overall, it's shaping up to be a good day for fishing off the coast of Maine, so make sure to pack your gear and take advantage of the favorable conditions.