Maine Inshore Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
3hour inshore fishing charter targeting Atlantic cod and mackerelSmall group experience with all equipment and licenses includedScenic Old Orchard Beach location with flexible fishing pace
Get ready to experience Old Orchard Beach's productive inshore waters with Fin N' Juice Charters. This 3-hour fishing adventure puts you right where the action is, targeting some of Maine's most sought-after species including Atlantic cod, mackerel, and striped bass. Whether you're a weekend warrior looking to wet a line or planning a family outing that everyone will remember, this small-group charter delivers the personal attention and local knowledge that makes all the difference between just fishing and actually catching fish.
You'll be fishing Maine's legendary inshore waters where the rocky bottom structure and tidal movements create perfect habitat for feeding fish. This isn't your typical crowded party boat experience – with just 4 anglers max, you get the captain's undivided attention and plenty of room to work your lines without bumping elbows. The trip focuses on productive spots within easy reach of Old Orchard Beach, where depths range from 20 to 80 feet and the bottom transitions from sandy patches to rocky ledges that hold baitfish and attract predators. Expect to move between 2-3 different locations depending on what's biting, with your captain reading the fish finder and adjusting tactics based on real-time conditions. The coastal scenery is just a bonus – you'll be too busy reeling in fish to worry about taking selfies.
All your gear is provided, from rods and reels spooled with fresh line to a full selection of jigs, bait rigs, and terminal tackle suited for Maine's inshore species. You'll primarily fish with conventional tackle – think medium-heavy spinning rods paired with 4000-series reels loaded with 20-30lb braid. Bottom fishing dominates the approach here, using fish finder rigs tipped with fresh clams, sea worms, or cut bait to target cod and pollock holding near structure. When schools of mackerel move through, expect to switch to smaller jigs or sabiki rigs for fast-paced action that'll keep your arms burning. The captain provides fresh bait and knows exactly which presentations work best for each target species based on current conditions, water temperature, and seasonal patterns. Don't worry about bringing anything – your fishing license is included, and the boat carries everything needed for a successful day of bottom fishing and light jigging.
Atlantic cod remain the crown jewel of Maine inshore fishing, and these waters consistently produce keeper-sized fish throughout much of the year. Cod here typically run 18-28 inches, with the occasional trophy pushing 30+ inches and weighing 8-12 pounds. These fish are structure-oriented, hanging around rocky ledges and drop-offs where they ambush baitfish and crustaceans. Spring and fall offer the most consistent cod action, when cooler water temperatures bring them into shallower areas. What makes cod so exciting isn't just their size – they fight hard on the way up and provide excellent table fare that's perfect for fish and chips or baked dinners.
Atlantic mackerel provide non-stop action when they're around, typically showing up in large schools from late spring through early fall. These smaller but incredibly abundant fish rarely exceed 12-14 inches, but what they lack in size they make up for in sheer numbers and aggressive strikes. Mackerel are pelagic feeders that cruise mid-water column, making them perfect targets for small jigs and sabiki rigs. The best part about mackerel fishing is the continuous action – once you locate a school, you can catch them two at a time until your arms give out. They're also excellent bait for larger species and make fantastic smoked fish or simple pan-fried meals.
Striped bass represent the ultimate inshore game fish, combining size, fight, and intelligence that challenges even experienced anglers. Maine's inshore stripers typically range from schoolie size (20-24 inches) up to keeper bass in the 28-35 inch range, with the occasional cow bass exceeding 40 inches. These fish are highly seasonal, with peak action occurring during their spring and fall migrations when they follow baitfish along the coast. Stripers are ambush predators that relate to structure, current breaks, and bait concentrations, making them both challenging and rewarding to target. Their powerful runs and head-shaking fights make every hookup memorable.
Pollock round out the inshore slam and often surprise anglers with their aggressive strikes and determined fights. These underrated fish typically run 16-24 inches in these waters and are closely related to cod, sharing similar habitat preferences for rocky structure and current-swept areas. Pollock are active throughout the water column and readily hit both bottom rigs and jigs worked higher in the water. They're excellent table fare when prepared properly and provide consistent action when other species are finicky. Fall months typically produce the largest pollock as they fatten up before winter.
This top-rated Maine fishing charter fills up quickly, especially during prime fishing seasons when the bite is hot and weather conditions are most favorable. The 4-person limit ensures you get personalized instruction and prime fishing spots without the crowds that plague larger boats. Everything's included – gear, bait, licenses, and local expertise – so you can focus on what matters most: putting fish in the boat. Whether you're targeting dinner for the family or just want to experience Maine's world-class inshore fishing, Fin N' Juice Charters delivers the authentic fishing adventure you're looking for. Book now and get ready to see why Old Orchard Beach's inshore waters have been producing happy anglers for generations.
Step aboard the Fin-N-Juice, a beautifully restored 21-foot Kencraft center console that's perfect for chasing cod, mackerel, and bluefish along Maine's productive inshore waters. This 2018 restoration combines classic fishing boat reliability with modern conveniences that serious anglers appreciate. The spacious center console design gives all four guests plenty of room to work their lines without getting tangled up. What sets this boat apart is its fishing-focused setup. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over structure where fish hold, while the GPS keeps you on productive spots trip after trip. The fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating schools, and the livewell keeps your bait fresh and active all day long. When it's time to move between fishing grounds, the boat's 45-knot top speed gets you there fast, leaving more time with lines in the water. Whether you're drifting for mackerel or anchored up for cod, this well-equipped vessel handles Old Orchard Beach's inshore fishery with style.
Gadus MorhuaAtlantic cod are the classic Maine groundfish - chunky, hard-fighting bottom dwellers that make great table fare. Most cod we catch run 15-30 pounds, though bigger ones are out there. They stick to rocky bottom areas and sandy spots in 50-200 feet of water, using that little chin whisker to hunt crabs, worms, and small fish. Fall and winter are prime time when they move closer to shore. What draws anglers? They fight hard on the way up, they're beautiful fish with those mottled colors, and the meat is simply outstanding - firm, white, and mild. Due to conservation efforts, we follow strict regulations to protect the population. Here's something that works well: bounce a jig tipped with clam or sea worm right on bottom. Cod are curious and will often grab it on the drop.
Scomber ScombrusMackerel are fast, scrappy fighters that show up in huge schools during summer months. These sleek fish average around 12 inches and maybe a pound, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and attitude. You'll find them in open water, usually mid-column, chasing baitfish near the surface. They're gorgeous fish too - metallic blue-green backs with those wavy black stripes. Best fishing happens June through September when they move close to shore. Guests love them because they're aggressive biters, put up a good scrap for their size, and they're delicious smoked or grilled fresh. My tip? Use small shiny lures or sabiki rigs - once you find a school, you can fill the cooler fast. Just keep your lures moving; these guys won't chase slow baits.
Pollachius pollachiusPollock are serious fighters that'll surprise you with their strength. These dark-backed fish usually run 3-6 pounds but can hit 20+ pounds, and they're built for power, not speed. You'll find them around rocky structure in 50-150 feet of water, often suspended mid-depth but ready to bolt for the bottom when hooked. They're most active during cooler months - fall through early spring. What guests enjoy is that sudden, strong pull when one takes your lure, plus they're good eating despite the darker meat. They're also great for beginners since they bite aggressively. Local tip: use a sand eel or black minnow-style soft plastic and jig it near rocky ledges. When you hook one, keep steady pressure - they'll try to wrap you around every rock down there if you give them slack.
Morone SaxatilisStripers are legendary fighters that'll test your gear and your patience. These silvery beauties with their distinctive black stripes typically run 20-40 pounds around here, though we've seen some real monsters push 50+. They love structure - rocks, drop-offs, and moving water near shore. Spring through fall brings the best action as they follow baitfish during their famous migration. What makes them special? That powerful run when hooked, plus they're fantastic eating with sweet, flaky meat. During our trips, I watch for diving birds - that's usually stripers busting bait underneath. Here's a local trick: when the tide's moving and you see nervous water, cast just uptide of the disturbance and let your bait drift naturally into the feeding zone.
Maine