Atlantic Mackerel Fishing in Maine
When atlantic mackerel are caught across Maine, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Atlantic Mackerel catch through the year
Recreational catch in Maine by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching atlantic mackerel in Maine
Atlantic Mackerel catches in Maine run hardest around Jul-Aug, with the strongest two-month windows in Jul-Aug and May-Jun. Anglers keep about 69% 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 mackerel 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 mackerel in Maine?+
Across Maine, about 69% of the atlantic mackerel caught are kept and 31% are released. That works out to roughly 3.3M kept and 1.5M released in 2024.
How many atlantic mackerel are caught in Maine?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 4.7M atlantic mackerel caught by recreational anglers in Maine in 2024, making it the #1 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this atlantic mackerel data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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