Beginning in 2008, Maine anglers will be subject to several new general regulations on black bass, all geared toward creating a quality fishery. Anglers are advised to be sure to check the updated 2008 fishing regulations before heading out.

Waters worth targeting this spring include Eskutassis and Dolby ponds and Lake Auburn, where quality smallmouths are taken in the early part of the season.

As waters warm over the summer, try Long Pond in Taunton and Raynham Township for hot smallmouth bass action. (Carry-in access is off Somerset Junction Road.)

Clearwater Pond in Industry can be tough to fish because the water is so clear. But clever anglers stand a chance of landing large bronzebacks there.

As waters cool in fall, Big Lake in Princeton becomes premier smallmouth water. Indian Pond also gives up some big bass. Access is at the boat launch off Burnham Road and at the dam. Prong Pond in Beaver Cove is also known for great bass fishing.

West Grand Lake is also good for bass, and has an extended season that is open into mid-October. Boyden Lake in Robbinston and Toddy Pond in Orland are also open for bass fishing until Oct. 31.

Bass fishing is allowed until the end of November at Grand Falls Flowage in Princeton, Meddybemps Lake, Crawford Lake or Hadley Lake in East Machias.

For hardwater bass action, try Toddy and Lower Patten ponds.

For more Maine bass-fishing information, call the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife at (207) 287-8000. Or you can also visit www.maine.gov/ifw.

For travel information, telephone the Maine Office of Tourism at 1-888-624-6345.

Or visit www.visitmaine.com.

MASSACHUSETTS
According to Aquatic Biologist Richard Hartley, the Bay State's Warm and Cool Water Project Leader, healthy bass are found in pretty much every water surveyed.