Mid-May through October
Maine Striped Bass Season Guide
When stripers arrive, what they eat and where to find them, month by month.
A season on the Maine coast
Striped bass migrate north to Maine each spring and leave again in the fall. Here’s what each month brings.
May: The first fish arrive
Schoolie stripers push into the rivers and estuaries as the water warms, following river herring and alewives. Light tackle and small flies. Where: Rivers, estuaries, Saco Bay.
June: Bigger fish, more bait
Larger stripers show up on the heels of the bait. Some of the most exciting topwater and fly fishing of the year. Where: Casco Bay, Saco Bay.
July: Sight fishing the flats
Sand eels and silversides draw stripers onto the flats. Prime time for sight fishing on foot or from the boat. Where: Saco Bay flats, Casco Bay.
August: Early and late
Fish feed hardest at first light and in the evening. Mackerel and pogies bring big fish around the islands and ledges. Where: Casco Bay islands and ledges.
September: The fall run begins
Stripers fatten up for the trip south. Blitzes on bait, cool mornings and fewer boats. Where: Both bays.
October: Last call
The final push of migrating fish. Some of the biggest stripers of the season before they head south. Where: Saco Bay, river mouths.
Questions
Maine Striper Season FAQ
When do stripers arrive in Maine?
Usually in mid to late May, as water temperatures climb and river herring run.
When is the fall run?
September and October, as stripers feed heavily before migrating south.
When should I book?
June and September weekends fill first. Book early for prime dates.
Let’s go find some stripers.
Pick a boat or wading trip and lock in your date online. Captain Bryan calls about a week out to plan tides, launch and goals.