Springtime means big bass

Spring smallmouth bass fishing can be the best of the year. During the months of May and June in Mid-coast and Northeastern Maine, the rivers and lakes are full of spawning smallmouth bass. 

Smallmouth bass come into the shallow waters during the springtime to start their spawning cycle, when the water temperature reaches around 55 degrees. They come from the deeper waters and select their territory. They prefer a sandy, gravel bottom where they spend days in the pre-spawn cleaning and preparing the "beds". Maine's lakes and rivers are the perfect habitat for bass reproduction.  These beds are located in normally 6-10 feet of water, sometimes getting so close to shore that when the water level drops it leaves them exposed. During this time of year you are basically sight fishing. The Maine lakes we fish are unbelievably clear and with a good pair of polarized glasses you can actually observe the fish in the water on their beds. Once the bass start to spawn they are very protective. You cast, work the lure, or sinking fly, through the beds triggering a genetic response to the fish that says "attack". They are protecting their eggs and when an intruder passes through their area they hit almost every time. Anyone who enjoys bass fishing and has never experienced a spring trip, you are missing out. The smallies are large, active, and you can catch more in a day that will tip the scales to 3+lbs than any other time of the year. Once the water temperatures rise into the mid 70's the big ones go back to the deep waters. The action heats up by the second week of May and lasts through the first week of June, but don't get discouraged if a spring trip is not possible. We can catch them throughout the summer as well. 

With Northridge you have the choice of a trip to the Mid-coast region or to Northeastern Maine.  A trip to the Mid-coast offers superb fishing just minutes from downtown Camden. During the spring season Northridge and the Camden Riverhouse Hotel offer rate packages and discounts for hotel stay. Transportation is provided to and from the lakes at no additional charge. At the end of the day Camden offers many shops to explore and restaurants to satisfy your taste for fine Maine seafood. If you choose a trip to Northeastern Maine we will fish the famous Penobscot and Piscataquis Rivers. If overnight accommodations are required we will stay at the Northridge Outfitters lodge. The lodge has all the amenities of home with the ambiance of the Maine woods .

Bring your fishing party, yourself or anyone who just wants to come to Maine and enjoy an outing on one of our pristine lakes or rivers. The fishing is fully guided with all the gear and bait provided. If you have your own tackle bring it along. Whether you prefer to fly fish or spin cast, we will accommodate your needs. Snacks and juice provided on half day trips and shore lunches on full day trips.

                           RATES:      $300.00  Full day    7-8 hrs

                                                   $160.00  Half day    4-5 hrs

Lodging at Northridge:  $85 ea. per night  / meals included

                                                 License $11.00 per day 

                                Click here to see more Spring fishing photos