BAR HARBOR FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Cold Air, Tight Lines: Family Mackerel and Pollock Fishing from Bar Harbor’s Vagabond
A 2½–3 hour, family-friendly outing aboard the Maine-built Vagabond that teaches anglers to target mackerel and pollock while cruising scenic Frenchman's Bay.
Cold Air, Tight Lines: Family Mackerel and Pollock Fishing from Bar Harbor’s Vagabond.
Step aboard Vagabond, a local MDI 45 fishing vessel, and spend a brisk 2½–3 hours drifting the sheltered waters of Frenchman's Bay. With Captain Randy — a lifelong Maine fisherman — at the helm and a deliberately limited guest list for space and comfort, these outings combine hands-on instruction in mackerel and pollock fishing with wide views, seabirds and coastal scenery. Dress in warm layers: the air on the water is cool even on sunny days.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Vagabond — a Maine-built working fishing boat
Vagabond is a fiberglass MDI 45 built on Mount Desert Island with a long fishing history; the vessel is configured for comfortable, productive day trips and a hands-on fishing experience.
Captain Randy’s local expertise
Captain Randy has fished Maine waters since childhood and enjoys helping guests learn to catch fish, guiding anglers on technique and local habits.
Targeted mackerel and pollock in Frenchman’s Bay
These family-friendly trips focus on mackerel and pollock, with all tackle provided, set against a backdrop of wildlife and coastal scenery.
What the day feels like
How the trip feels
The outing unfolds as a short, purposeful day on the water: a downtown departure, a run into Frenchman's Bay to set lines for mackerel and pollock, instruction and hands-on casting for every guest, and a relaxed return with views of shoreline and seabirds. The operator intentionally caps guest numbers so anglers have space to work the rail and learn directly from the captain.
THE BOAT
Vagabond — a Maine-built working fishing boat
Vagabond is a fiberglass MDI 45 built on Mount Desert Island with a long fishing history; the vessel is configured for comfortable, productive day trips and a hands-on fishing experience.
THE CREW
Captain Randy’s local expertise
Captain Randy has fished Maine waters since childhood and enjoys helping guests learn to catch fish, guiding anglers on technique and local habits.
THE FISHING
Targeted mackerel and pollock in Frenchman’s Bay
These family-friendly trips focus on mackerel and pollock, with all tackle provided, set against a backdrop of wildlife and coastal scenery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Dress warmly in layers and bring a windproof outer layer; you can remove items if you warm up, but conditions on the water can be cool. All fishing tackle is provided onboard.
Expect cooler temperatures on deck — hat, gloves and a warm sweater or jacket are recommended. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are advisable.
The vessel supplies all tackle so guests need not bring rods or terminal tackle to participate.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the fishing trip?
Trips run approximately 2½ to 3 hours.
Where do we board the boat?
Departures are from the Bar Harbor Inn Pier in downtown Bar Harbor.
What species will we fish for?
The trips target mackerel and pollock.
Is fishing gear provided?
Yes — all tackle is provided onboard.
Are these trips family-friendly and are there child rates?
Yes. The trips are family-friendly; children under 12 have a reduced rate.
How many guests are allowed per trip?
The operator limits guests to 30 for comfort, though Vagabond is USCG‑inspected for 42.