Premier Maine Night Striper Fishing | Reel Nice

Night Striped Bass Fishing in Wells Harbor

Picture this: the sun's setting over Wells Harbor, most folks are heading home from their beach day, and you're just getting started on what might be the best fishing experience of your trip to Maine. Captain Jeff Trudeau's 6-hour night fishing adventure is designed specifically for beginners who want to try something different—striped bass fishing under the stars. Starting at 6:30 PM, this private charter takes up to 3 guests into Maine's coastal waters where the real action happens after dark. Jeff's been guiding these waters for years, and he knows exactly how to make newcomers feel comfortable while teaching the skills that'll have you hooked on night fishing. No need to stress about gear or technique—everything's provided, and the pace is completely tailored to your comfort level.

What to Expect on the Water

Once you step aboard Jeff's boat at Wells Harbor, you'll quickly realize this isn't your typical fishing trip. Night fishing for stripers has a completely different rhythm than daytime angling, and Jeff's approach makes it accessible for anyone. The first hour or so is all about getting comfortable with the gear and learning the basics—how to cast effectively in low light, reading the water for signs of fish, and understanding how striped bass behave after sunset. As darkness settles in, the real magic begins. Maine's coastal waters come alive at night, and Jeff knows every productive spot along this stretch of coast. You'll move between different areas depending on conditions, tides, and where the fish are showing up. The atmosphere is relaxed but focused, giving you plenty of time to practice techniques without the pressure of crowded daytime fishing spots. Jeff's patient instruction style means you'll actually understand why you're doing what you're doing, not just following directions.

Techniques & Night Fishing Gear

Night fishing for stripers requires a different toolkit than daytime fishing, and Jeff's got you covered with top-quality gear suited for after-dark action. You'll be using medium to heavy spinning rods paired with reels that can handle the fight these fish put up. The lure selection focuses on baits that create vibration and noise—things like large swim baits, poppers, and metal jigs that stripers can locate easily in the dark. Jeff teaches you how to work these lures with the right retrieve speed and action to trigger strikes. One of the coolest aspects is learning to fish by feel rather than sight. You'll develop sensitivity to detect strikes and learn to set the hook based on what you feel through the rod. Techniques include casting to structure, working drop-offs where stripers hunt, and understanding how moon phases and tides affect fish behavior. Jeff also covers safety essentials for night fishing—proper lighting, staying oriented, and moving around the boat safely in low light conditions. The gear setup might seem complex at first, but Jeff breaks everything down step by step so you'll understand not just how to use it, but why each piece matters for night fishing success.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Striped bass are the stars of Maine's inshore fishing scene, and there's good reason these fish have such a devoted following among anglers. These powerful predators can range from schoolie-size fish around 20 inches up to trophy specimens pushing 40-plus inches and weighing 30 pounds or more. What makes stripers so exciting is their aggressive feeding behavior, especially at night when they move into shallower waters to hunt. They're ambush predators that cruise structure like ledges, drop-offs, and rocky areas where baitfish get trapped or disoriented. The best striper fishing in Maine typically runs from late spring through fall, with night fishing particularly productive during summer months when water temperatures are optimal. These fish are known for their incredible fights—when you hook a good striper, you'll know it immediately. They make powerful runs, shake their heads violently, and often jump clear of the water trying to throw the hook. Beyond the fight, stripers are also excellent table fare when harvested within regulations, though many anglers practice catch and release to preserve the fishery. What really gets people excited about striper fishing is the variety of techniques that work and the fact that you never know if the next fish will be a smaller schoolie or a genuine trophy. Night fishing adds another layer of excitement since these fish often feed more aggressively in low light, and the peaceful atmosphere of fishing under the stars makes every strike feel more dramatic.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you've been thinking about trying night fishing or want to experience Maine's legendary striper fishing in a supportive, beginner-friendly setting, Captain Jeff's extended half-day trip delivers exactly what you're looking for. Six hours gives you real time to learn, practice, and experience the unique rhythm of night fishing without feeling rushed. The private charter format means Jeff's attention is focused entirely on your group, ensuring everyone gets hands-on instruction and plenty of opportunities to fish. Wells Harbor provides easy access to some of Maine's most productive striper waters, and Jeff's local knowledge means you'll fish the right spots at the right times. Whether you're a complete beginner or just new to night fishing, this trip builds your skills and confidence while giving you a genuine taste of what makes Maine fishing special. Remember to bring your fishing license, dress in layers for changing temperatures, and come ready to try something new. The memories you'll make fishing under Maine's stars are the kind that keep people coming back to these waters year after year.