Below are some of the many species of wildlife you may encounter on a Swell Time Charter in Casco bay and surrounding waters.
Gamefish
Striped Bass
The ultimate Northeast gamefish. Known for their fighting spirit and iconic stripes, we target these in everything from the surf to the ledges of Casco Bay.
Bluefish
Sometimes called “yellow-eyed devils,” these aggressive fighters are known for their spectacular leaps, relentless energy and sharp teeth.
Bluefin Tuna
The pinnacle of offshore fishing. These giants are built for speed and power, requiring heavy tackle and serious determination.
Groundfish
Atlantic Halibut
The “holy grail” of the bottom. These massive flatfish are prized for their size and incredible flavor.
Atlantic Cod
A New England staple. Found near the seafloor, Cod are as historic as they are delicious.
Haddock
Known for the “devil’s thumbprint” on their side, Haddock provide fast-paced action and are a favorite for the dinner table.
Pollock
Hard-hitting and fast, Pollock are often found over deep-water wrecks and rock piles.
Whiting (Silver Hake)
Fast, slender hunters found over sandy bottoms; they are a high-protein favorite for larger groundfish and hungry sharks.
Sharks
Mako Shark
The fastest shark in the ocean. Famous for their incredible acrobatics and metallic blue color.
Thresher Shark
Easily identified by their long, whip-like tail used to stun prey. A true powerhouse.
Porbeagle & Blue Sharks
The common “tigers of the north.” These provide exciting rod-bending action during our offshore trips.
Dogfish
A smaller, plentiful shark that keeps the offshore rods moving and the kids entertained.
Baitfish
Atlantic Mackerel
The primary forage fish in our waters. They are beautiful, fast, and essential for our live-bait setups.
Menhaden (Pogies)
The oily, high-energy fuel that brings the big Stripers and Tuna into the bay.
Squid
A favorite snack for almost everything in the ocean, often found during night trips or in deep-water thermal breaks.
Sand Eels & Herring
The “base of the food chain” that keeps Casco Bay alive and thriving.
Lobster and crabs
Just like those who visit and live here, big stripers love a meal of fresh Maine lobster.
Whales, Seals & More
Humpback & Minke Whales
Common visitors to the Gulf of Maine. With some luck and a good eye, you may see them spouting or breaching.
Harbor Seals & Porpoises
Constant companions in the bay, often seen bobbing near the ledges or surfacing near the boat.
Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola)
A prehistoric-looking giant occasionally seen basking on the surface on calm summer days.
Coastal Birds
Osprey & Bald Eagles
The elite aerial hunters of the Maine coast. Seeing them dive for a fish is a thrill.
Common Loons
A true symbol of Maine. Their haunting calls are a staple of early mornings in the harbor from late fall through early spring, at which point they return to the lakes.
Gulls & Cormorants
The “scouts” of the ocean. We watch their behavior closely to find where the bait and the fish are hiding.