Atlantic Herring Fishing in Maine
When atlantic herring are caught across Maine, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Atlantic Herring catch through the year
Recreational catch in Maine by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching atlantic herring in Maine
Atlantic Herring catches in Maine run hardest around Jul-Aug, with the strongest two-month windows in Jul-Aug and May-Jun. Anglers keep about 11% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the Maine fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch atlantic herring in Maine?+
Catches peak around Jul-Aug (July and August). The strongest two-month windows are Jul-Aug and May-Jun. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release atlantic herring in Maine?+
Across Maine, about 11% of the atlantic herring caught are kept and 89% are released. That works out to roughly 929 kept and 7,335 released in 2024.
How many atlantic herring are caught in Maine?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 8,264 atlantic herring caught by recreational anglers in Maine in 2024, making it the #14 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this atlantic herring data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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