Get ready for a day of angling excitement that the whole family can enjoy! This 6-hour private charter off the New Jersey coast is tailor-made for groups looking to bond over bent rods and screaming reels. Whether you've got little ones just learning to bait a hook or seasoned anglers in the family, our experienced crew will make sure everyone has a blast on the water. We'll target some of the area's most sought-after inshore species while soaking in the stunning coastal scenery. It's the perfect recipe for creating lasting memories and maybe even sparking a lifelong passion for fishing.
From the moment you step aboard our spacious, family-friendly vessel, you'll know you're in for a treat. We've designed this trip to be flexible, accommodating anglers of all skill levels and ages. Our patient crew will walk newcomers through the basics, from rigging up to proper casting techniques. For the more experienced folks, we'll share some local hotspots and insider tips to boost your chances of landing a trophy. As we cruise along the picturesque New Jersey coastline, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life that call these waters home. With a max of 6 guests, there's plenty of elbow room for everyone to cast comfortably and safely.
On this trip, we'll employ a variety of fishing techniques to keep things interesting and maximize our chances of success. We might start by drift fishing over some prime structure, feeling the subtle taps of a hungry tautog or the sharp strike of a sea bass. If the striped bass are running, we could switch to trolling with live bait or lures, teaching the kids how to work the lines and stay alert for that telltale zing of the reel. For the scup (also known as porgy), we'll likely use light tackle and small baits, perfect for younger anglers to practice their timing and feel the thrill of a catch. Throughout the day, our crew will be right there to offer hands-on instruction, share local fishing lore, and ensure everyone's having a great time. It's not just about catching fish – it's about working together, cheering each other on, and creating those "remember when" moments that families talk about for years to come.
New Jersey's inshore waters are teeming with a variety of gamefish that'll put smiles on faces young and old. Here's a rundown of the prime targets we'll be after on your family fishing adventure:
Striped Bass: The undisputed king of the Jersey coast, stripers are the ultimate prize for many anglers. These powerful fish can grow to impressive sizes, with specimens over 40 pounds not uncommon. Stripers are known for their hard-fighting nature and delicious meat. They're most active in the spring and fall, making those seasons prime time for trophy hunters. Kids love the excitement of battling these silver-sided bruisers, and landing one is sure to create a lifelong fishing memory.
Scup (Porgy): These feisty little battlers are perfect for introducing kids to the joys of fishing. Abundant and eager to bite, scup provide non-stop action that'll keep young anglers engaged. While they may not be the biggest fish in the sea, their tasty white flesh makes them a favorite for fish fries. Look for scup to show up in good numbers during the warmer months, usually hanging around structure and reefs.
Tautog (Blackfish): With their buck teeth and wrasse-like appearance, tautog are a unique catch that always gets a reaction from kids. These structure-loving fish are masters of the light bite, requiring a bit of finesse to hook. But once on the line, they put up a stubborn fight that'll test any angler's skills. Tautog fishing is best in the cooler months, with fall and spring being prime times. Their firm, white flesh is highly prized for the dinner table.
Black Sea Bass: These bottom-dwelling beauties are a favorite among both novice and experienced anglers. With their distinctive black coloration and white-tipped fins, sea bass are a striking catch. They're aggressive feeders, often hitting baits with gusto, which makes them great for keeping kids interested. The meat is mild and flaky, perfect for a variety of recipes. Sea bass fishing heats up in the late spring and summer months, offering some of the most consistent action of the season.
There's something special about fishing with family that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the shared excitement of a bent rod, or the friendly competition to see who can land the biggest catch of the day. Perhaps it's the chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with each other, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean. Or it could be the stories and inside jokes that inevitably develop over a day on the water – the ones that get retold at family gatherings for years to come. Whatever the reason, our family fishing charters have become an annual tradition for many groups, with some even spanning three generations of anglers. It's not just about the fish – it's about creating a shared experience that strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories.
Ready to make some waves and memories with your crew? Our 6-hour family fishing charter is the perfect way to spend quality time together while experiencing the thrill of the catch. With our experienced guides, comfortable boat, and abundance of fish species to target, you're in for a day of non-stop action and fun. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, continue a family tradition, or just enjoy a day out on the beautiful New Jersey waters, this trip has something for everyone. Don't let this opportunity slip away – the fish are biting, and your next great family adventure is just a booking away. Grab your sunscreen, pack some snacks, and get ready for a day of laughter, excitement, and maybe even some friendly family competition. Book your charter today and let's start planning your unforgettable day on the water!
Black sea bass are a blast to catch and even better to eat. These chunky fish usually run 2-4 pounds, but the big boys can hit 8. You'll find them around underwater structures like wrecks and reefs, especially in late spring and summer. They're aggressive feeders and put up a good scrap until they break the surface. Anglers love 'em for their fight and fantastic flavor. To land one, use a medium-weight rod with 20-30 pound line. Squid or fish strips work great as bait. Here's a local secret: the bigger males hang out in deeper water over rocky bottoms. If you're not getting bites after 15 minutes, don't be shy about moving spots - these fish can be picky about their hangouts.
Scup, or porgy, are fun little fighters that'll keep the whole family busy. They usually run 8-12 inches, maxing out around 18. You'll find them near the coast from May to October, often within a few miles of shore. They love hanging around rocks and pilings, munching on shellfish and worms. Scup are perfect for kids or beginners - they're pretty easy to catch and make for good eating too. To land one, try drifting or bottom fishing with squid or clams. Here's a trick: use a light setup with 14-pound test line and a sensitive rod tip. When you feel that telltale nibble, set the hook quick - these guys have small mouths but they're crafty!
Striped bass are a favorite around here, and for good reason. These hard-fighting fish typically run 20-40 pounds, though the big ones can top 70. You'll find them near structures along the shore, especially in moving waters. They're most active at dawn and dusk when the water's cooler. Spring and fall are prime seasons as the bass migrate. Anglers love 'em for the powerful fight and great eating. To boost your chances, use live bait like herring or eels - the movement really gets their attention. And here's a local tip: cast your line from bridges or piers early or late in the day for best results. Just be ready with strong gear - these fish don't give up easy!
Tautog, or blackfish, are the bulldogs of the sea. These tough customers usually weigh 1-3 pounds but can hit nearly 30. You'll find them around rocky areas, jetties, and wrecks - their rubbery, slime-coated skin helps them navigate those spots. Spring and fall are prime seasons. Tautog put up a stubborn fight and taste great, making them a favorite target. They're not speedsters, but they'll test your skill getting them out of the rocks. For bait, nothing beats green crabs. Here's a pro tip: crush some crab legs and drop the pieces around your fishing spot. That scent drives tautog wild, and you might trigger a feeding frenzy. Just be ready to change bait every 5 minutes to keep it fresh.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yanmar
Maximum Cruising Speed: 19
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 315