Lure Compass

Bait & Tackle Shops · Portland, ME

Bait & Tackle Shops in Portland

2 listings · ranked by rating & reviews · updated 2026

Bait and tackle shops are the local hub for anglers - the place to grab live and fresh bait, restock terminal tackle, pick up a fishing license and get honest, current intel on what is biting nearby. A good local shop knows the waters better than any app: which spots are producing, what the fish are hitting, and which rig works this week. Many also sell or rent gear, spool reels and point newcomers toward beginner-friendly spots and charters. Hours and stock vary, and live bait can sell out early on a good weekend, so it is worth a call ahead. The listings here help you find nearby shops by city and state, ranked by reviews.

Below are 2 bait & tackle shops listings in Portland, ME, ranked by Google review volume so you can start with the most established options and contact them directly. The most-reviewed is The Tackle Shop (4.7★, 82 Google reviews).

Typical pricing

Bait and tackle prices are set by each local shop and vary by product and region. Many shops also sell state fishing licenses and can advise on current local regulations - confirm stock, hours and license sales with the shop directly.

See our full guide to fishing in Portland for neighborhoods, local pricing and how to choose.

Top bait & tackle shops listings in Portland

  1. 1
    The Tackle Shop
    Charters

    The Tackle Shop

    Portland Me

    Fishing store in Falmouth, ME · 4.7★ (82).

    ★ 4.7 · 82View →
  2. 2
    No Slack! Sportfishing Charters
    Charters

    No Slack! Sportfishing Charters

    Portland Me

    Fishing charter in Ferry Village, ME · 5★ (52).

    ★ 5 · 52View →

FAQ

Bait & Tackle Shops in Portland - common questions

How many bait & tackle shops are there in Portland? +
Lure Compass lists 2 listings for bait & tackle shops in Portland, ME.
Who has the best-rated bait & tackle shops in Portland? +
By Google review volume, The Tackle Shop is the most-reviewed bait & tackle shops listing in Portland (4.7★, 82 reviews). Rankings follow review count, not paid placement.
Can I buy a fishing license at a bait and tackle shop? +
Many bait and tackle shops are authorized to sell state fishing licenses alongside bait and gear, which makes them a convenient one-stop before a trip. Not all shops offer it, so call ahead to confirm - you can also buy a license online through your state wildlife agency.
What do bait and tackle shops sell? +
Typically live and fresh bait, hooks, weights, line, lures, rods and reels, plus local licenses at many shops. Some rent gear or spool reels for you. Stock varies by shop and season, and popular live baits can sell out on busy days, so a quick call ahead is smart.
How do I find a good local tackle shop? +
Browse the shops listed by city and state here and compare Google ratings and review counts. Reviews often mention bait selection, staff knowledge and local advice - the shops locals trust for intel usually stand out. Confirm hours and current stock with the shop before heading over.
How much does a fishing charter cost in Portland? +
Portland charters generally run about $450-$1,400 depending on trip length and target. Inshore striper and mackerel trips sit at the lower end; full-day groundfish and bluefin tuna charters cost the most because of fuel and the long run offshore. Confirm the all-in price with the operator.
When is the best time to catch striped bass near Portland? +
Stripers typically show in Casco Bay from June through September, with the strongest fishing in July and August as bait piles up around the islands and river mouths.
Can you catch bluefin tuna out of Portland? +
Yes. Giant bluefin move within range in late summer and fall, and boats target them by trolling or chunking on full-day offshore trips. Availability depends on the fish and the weather.
What groundfish can you keep off Portland? +
Cod, haddock, pollock and cusk are the common bottom species on the offshore ledges. Regulations on cod and haddock change year to year, so ask the operator what is open.

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