Information for Fishing the Saco River and Offshore
After passage of the Clean Water Act of 1972, the Saco River has had a remarkable recovery; to the point where Atlantic sturgeon have returned to the river and the estuary supports a world-class striped bass fishery. The stripers arrive around the beginning of June and provide wonderful sport up into the fall. River herring and shad also populate this part of the river.
Out in the bay fishermen catch mackerel and blue fish. Further off shore they go after haddock and Pollock and cod. Please be sure to familiarize yourself all the regulations that apply to catching these fish, by visiting the Department of Maine Marine Resources website.
The big prize these days is Atlantic blue fin tuna. Marston’s has probably six boats dedicated to tuna fishing. We even had one of our captains appear in a season of “Wicked Tuna.”
We also have quite a few customers with recreational lobster licenses. These fishermen can submerge up to five traps in the bay and must keep their catch for their own use.
There are a number of very experienced fishing guides here on the river who specialize in striper fishing. Others take clients further off shore. And some offer short duration “kids trips” during which children catch fish, watch seals, pull lobster traps and see the lighthouse. You can find more information on each further down the page.
Anglers who go out at dawn and sunset seem to have the best catches.
Fishing Guides At Marston's Marina
Marston's Marina is fortunate to serve as home port for many accomplised fishing and tour guides:
On The Water - The Angler's Guide to the Northeast
Saco Bay Tackle Co.
Find local fishing reports, seafood-based cooking recipies, gear and clothing at www.sacobaytackle.com.
Fish Species you can catch in the Saco River and on the Ocean:
- Bluefish
- Bluefin Tuna
- Cod
- Flounder
- Haddock
- Lobster
- Mackerel
- Pollock
- Shark (most popular: Blue, Mako, and Porbeagle)
- Striped Bass
Fishing Laws
Visit the Department of Marine Resources website to access the State of Maine Fishing Laws.
Fishing Lisences
In the State of Maine, you need a lisence for the current year to engage in Saltwater Fishing and Recreational Lobstering.
Circle Hooks
In the State of Maine has made it unlawful, when fishing for striped bass or bluefish, to use any hook other than a circle hook when using bait.
Gulf of Maine Fishing Spots close to Marston's Marina.
If you have photos you would like us to consider for our webpage, please send them to marstonsmarina@maine.rr.com.