Column: A Maine guide’s summer fishing report: What anglers can expect

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • June 26, 2026

It’s finally here — summer. We’re almost through June, and the best fishing across Maine is happening right now. Stripers are pushing into the state, hatches are in full swing and fish are feeding on the surface. Remote ponds are on fire as Hexagenia hatches begin — the hatch that makes big brook trout stupid. The smallmouth fishing this year has been outstanding, and we’ve landed some of the biggest bass I’ve seen in my 23 years of guiding. ~ Kevin McKay