What Loon Cove offers and where it is
Loon Cove is a small, sheltered inlet on the New Hampshire seacoast near Portsmouth, known for striped bass, bluefish, and seasonal mackerel. The cove sits in the town of Rye, roughly 10 miles south of Portsmouth, and is accessible by boat from nearby marinas or by wading from the rocky shore. The water is shallow and protected, making it a reliable spot when ocean conditions elsewhere are rough.
The cove's appeal lies in its consistency rather than size. Tidal movement is pronounced here, and the rocky bottom holds baitfish that larger gamefish hunt during the incoming and outgoing tides. Most anglers fish the cove from small boats or kayaks, though shore access exists at a few points along the perimeter.
Key Takeaways
- Loon Cove holds striped bass year-round, with the strongest fishing from May through October when water temperatures rise.
- The cove is best fished on moving tides, particularly the two hours before and after the turn, when baitfish are most active.
- You will need a New Hampshire saltwater fishing license, which is available online or at tackle shops in Rye and Portsmouth.
- Boat access requires a launch at a nearby marina; shore fishing is limited to a few rocky points and requires careful footing.
- Striped bass regulations in New Hampshire require a minimum size of 18 inches and a daily limit of one fish per angler.
Seasons and what fish are present
Striped bass are the primary target at Loon Cove and are present year-round, though fishing quality varies sharply by season. From May through September, water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, and bass move into the shallows to feed. This is the most productive period, with consistent action on live baitfish and small plugs during tidal movement.
Fall fishing (October and November) remains strong as bass feed heavily before winter, though water temperatures drop and fish move deeper. Winter fishing is possible but unpredictable; bass are present but less active and concentrated in deeper holes within the cove. Spring (April and May) marks a transition period when bass return to shallower water as temperatures rise.
Bluefish appear seasonally, typically from June through September, and will take the same lures and live baits as striped bass. Mackerel show up in summer and early fall, usually in larger schools, and are easier to catch but smaller than bass or blues.
Tides, currents, and timing
Tidal range at Loon Cove is roughly 8 feet, and the cove's shallow basin means tidal current is strong and predictable. The best fishing window is typically two hours before and two hours after the tidal turn—either slack water or the first hour of movement in either direction. During these periods, baitfish concentrate and larger fish move in to feed.
The incoming tide generally produces better fishing than the outgoing, because water pushes into the cove and compresses baitfish against the rocky structure. Check tide tables for Portsmouth Harbor before you fish; they apply directly to Loon Cove and are available free online through NOAA or through most fishing apps.
Slack water (the moment between tides) can be slow, so plan to fish the 30 minutes before and after rather than waiting for perfect slack. Early morning and late afternoon tides are often more productive than midday, though this varies by season and weather.
How to reach Loon Cove and where to launch
Boat access is the most reliable way to fish Loon Cove. The nearest public boat launch is at Wallis Sands State Beach in Rye, about 2 miles north of the cove. The launch has a paved ramp, parking, and a small fee (typically $5 to $10 per vehicle, though rates vary by season). From the launch, run south along the coast for roughly 10 minutes in a small boat to reach the cove's entrance.
Several private marinas in Portsmouth and Rye also offer launch access and sometimes boat rentals, though fees are higher. If you do not own a boat, kayak fishing is popular at Loon Cove; kayak rentals are available at outfitters in Portsmouth, and the cove's shallow, protected water is manageable for paddlers with basic experience.
Shore access exists at a few points, particularly along the rocky eastern shore near Odiorne Point State Park. Parking is limited and footing is uneven, so this option works best for anglers comfortable navigating rocks and tidal pools. There is no dedicated shore fishing area, so respect private property boundaries.
Regulations and licensing
New Hampshire requires a saltwater fishing license for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are available online through the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department website, at tackle shops in Rye and Portsmouth, and at some marinas. A three-day license costs roughly $20; an annual license is around $40. Licenses are issued immediately online and can be printed or displayed on a phone.
Striped bass in New Hampshire have a minimum size of 18 inches and a daily limit of one fish per angler. Bluefish have no size minimum but are subject to federal Atlantic coast regulations, which currently allow a daily limit of three fish. Mackerel are not regulated by daily limit in state waters, though federal rules apply if you venture beyond state lines.
Possession of undersized fish is prohibited, even if you intend to release them. If you catch a striped bass under 18 inches, handle it carefully and return it to the water immediately. Regulations change periodically, so check the New Hampshire Fish and Game website before you fish to confirm current rules.
What tackle and bait work best
Live baitfish are the most effective option at Loon Cove. Mackerel, herring, and silversides all work well, and most anglers catch bait in the cove itself or purchase it fresh from tackle shops in Portsmouth. A simple rig—a single hook on a light leader with a small split shot to control depth—works better than complex rigs in the cove's shallow water.
Artificial lures also produce, particularly small plugs (2 to 3 inches) that mimic baitfish and topwater lures that create commotion. Soft plastics on light jig heads work well during slower periods. Spinning rods in the 6- to 7-foot range with 10- to 15-pound test line are standard; heavier gear is unnecessary and makes casting tiring in a small boat.
Tackle shops in Rye and Portsmouth stock everything you need and can provide current information on what is working. The two main shops—Granite State Fishing and Seacoast Tackle—are within 5 miles of the cove and are worth a stop before your first trip.
Weather and water conditions to watch for
Loon Cove is protected from open ocean swell, but wind can still make it uncomfortable or unsafe. Northeast and east winds funnel directly into the cove and create chop; west and northwest winds are usually manageable. Check the marine forecast for the Portsmouth area before you launch, and be prepared to leave if conditions worsen—the cove offers no shelter once you are on the water.
Water clarity varies with tide and weather. After heavy rain, freshwater runoff can cloud the cove for a day or two, which can slow fishing. Calm, clear days with moderate tides are ideal. Fog is common in spring and early summer but does not affect fishing; it just makes navigation slower.
The rocky bottom means snags are common, particularly if you drift or anchor. Use a breakaway rig or accept that you will lose some tackle. Bring extra leaders and hooks, and do not fish with lures or rigs you cannot afford to lose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day to fish Loon Cove?
Early morning and late afternoon are generally more productive than midday, but tide timing matters more than clock time. Fish the two hours before and after the tidal turn, regardless of whether it falls at dawn or dusk. Check tide tables for Portsmouth Harbor to plan your trip around moving water.
Can I fish Loon Cove from shore?
Yes, but access is limited and footing is difficult. The rocky eastern shore near Odiorne Point State Park offers some casting room, but parking is scarce and the rocks are slippery when wet. Boat or kayak access is more reliable and safer.
Do I need a guide to fish Loon Cove?
No. The cove is small and straightforward to navigate, and striped bass are present year-round. A guide can accelerate your learning curve and provide current information on what is working, but many anglers fish it independently with good results.
What size striped bass can I keep?
The minimum size is 18 inches, and the daily limit is one fish per angler. Any bass under 18 inches must be released immediately. Check the New Hampshire Fish and Game website before you fish, as regulations can change.
Where do I buy bait for Loon Cove?
Granite State Fishing and Seacoast Tackle, both in the Portsmouth area, stock fresh mackerel, herring, and silversides. You can also catch bait in the cove itself using a small net or trap, though this requires extra time before you start fishing.