If you’re coming to New Hampshire or Maine to test out a new, exciting fishery, then the Saco River fishing scene is for you. From the White Mountains, all the way to the Saco Bay, this 136-mile river is a go-to destination for fly anglers.
Trout take center stage, namely Brook, Brown, and Rainbow, and they come in good sizes too. Fly fishing for these beauties is what put Saco River on the map.
If you’d like a mixed catch, you can go after different Bass species and Perch, as well. You can target Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass all over the river. If Stripers are your favorite catch, then the mouth of the river and Saco Bay are your best shot. This watershed also has a small population of Atlantic Salmon, but fishing for them is illegal in order to protect them.
If you’re hitting the water with a local charter, trips are usually available from April to October, while the fishing season is open. The Saco banks can be quite difficult to access, and having a guide help you navigate your way to the hotspots is a game-changer. You can book trips that last anywhere from 4–8 hours, it all depends on your fishing appetite.
There are plenty of towns on Saco River where you can find a charter to fulfill your fishing needs. A lot of trips start from Biddeford, Standish, Conway, and Saco, which are also fishing hubs. All of these towns will show you the Saco River’s fishing potential in its full light!
Rules & Regulations
Fishing on the Saco River is seasonal (April-October), and a lot depends on where you’re casting your lines. Some parts of the river are limited to fly fishing only and allow lower daily limits, while others allow a variety of techniques. If you’re fishing with a guide, all the licenses and gear are usually included in the price of the trip.