Best Fishing Charters at the Jersey Shore
Book deep sea fishing, inshore trips, and party boats from Cape May to Sandy Hook. Catch striped bass, fluke, tuna, and more.
16
Charters
11
Ports
6
Party Boats
10
Private
Why Charter a Fishing Trip?
The Jersey Shore offers some of the best fishing on the East Coast. From massive bluefin tuna in the offshore canyons to striped bass runs in spring and fall, there is always something biting.
Party boats are perfect for beginners. No reservation needed—just show up with sunscreen and the crew handles everything. Tackle is included, mates help with baiting and fish handling, and you keep your catch.
Private charters offer the ultimate experience. Target trophy fish with an experienced captain who knows exactly where they are biting. Half-day inshore trips are great for families, while full-day offshore trips chase tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin in the canyons.
Cape May
World-class offshore fishing with access to the canyons. The tuna and marlin capital of New Jersey.
Canyon Club Sportfishing
$$$OffshorePremium offshore fishing targeting tuna, marlin, and other pelagic species in the canyons.
Cape May Lady
$Party BoatLarge party boat offering half-day and full-day trips for sea bass, porgies, and more.
Fishin Fever Charters
$$Inshore and nearshore charters for striped bass, weakfish, and flounder.
South Jersey Marina Charters
$$$OffshoreMultiple charter boats based at South Jersey Marina for offshore adventures.
Monmouth County
The party boat capital of New Jersey. Belmar and Brielle offer legendary half-day trips.
Big Mohawk Party Boat
$Party BoatClassic Jersey Shore party boat experience from Belmar Marina with daily sailings.
Jamaica II
$Party BoatLarge party boat with morning, afternoon, and night fishing trips from Brielle.
Reel Class Sportfishing
$$$OffshoreOffshore tuna and shark fishing charters from Point Pleasant marina.
Miss Belmar Princess II
$$Private inshore charters for striped bass, blues, and fluke.
Atlantic Highlands Fleet
$Atlantic Highlands
Multiple party boats serving the northern Jersey Shore from Atlantic Highlands.
Long Beach Island
Inshore and offshore charters from LBI with beautiful lighthouse departures.
Miss Beach Haven
$$Family-owned charter specializing in LBI inshore waters for fluke, stripers, and sea bass.
Big Blue Sportfishing
$$$OffshoreOffshore trips from Barnegat Light targeting tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin.
Barnegat Light Charter Fleet
$Party BoatParty boats departing from the Barnegat Light marina for sea bass and porgies.
Fish Hawk Charters
$$Back bay fishing in Barnegat Bay for flounder, weakfish, and striped bass.
Atlantic County
Convenient fishing from Atlantic City, perfect for combining with casino stays.
Atlantic City Fishing Fleet
$Party BoatDaily party boat trips departing from Gardner Basin, perfect for casino visitors.
Fish Finder Adventures
$$Back bay and inshore charters from Brigantine for flounder, stripers, and weakfish.
Reel Therapy Charters
$$Experienced captain offering inshore and nearshore trips from Great Egg Harbor.
Fishing Charter Tips
🎣Book Early for Weekends
Popular charters book weeks in advance for summer weekends. Reserve your spot as soon as you know your dates.
🎣Check the Weather
Captains cancel for high winds and rough seas. Have a backup date in mind and call ahead if weather looks questionable.
🎣Bring Motion Sickness Meds
Take Dramamine or Bonine 30-60 minutes before departure. Even experienced boaters can get seasick offshore.
🎣Tip Your Mate
Standard tip is 15-20% for the mate, who does the heavy lifting. They work on tips and deserve recognition.
🎣Wear the Right Shoes
Non-marking, non-slip boat shoes are essential. Avoid black soles that mark the deck.
🎣Bring a Cooler
Some boats provide coolers, others do not. Call ahead and bring one with ice for your catch.
Book fishing in New Jersey
Compare prices and read reviews from verified travelers
Essential Fishing Gear
Quality tackle, rods, and accessories for your charter fishing trip.
Spinning Rod & Reel Combo
Versatile combo for surf and pier fishing.
Tackle Box
Organize lures, hooks, and tackle.
Fishing Cooler (50qt+)
Keep your catch fresh. 50+ quart for serious fishing.
Surf Fishing Waders
Stay dry during surf fishing. Neoprene for cold water.
Studded Jetty Boots
Grip on slippery rocks and jetties.
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FAQ
What is the difference between a charter boat and a party boat?
A charter boat is private, reserved for your group only (typically 4-6 anglers). A party boat (head boat) is open to the public, selling individual tickets. Charters cost more but offer a personalized experience.
What can you catch on a New Jersey fishing charter?
Inshore: striped bass, bluefish, fluke, sea bass, weakfish. Offshore: yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, white marlin, blue marlin. Species vary by season.
How much does a fishing charter cost in New Jersey?
Party boats: $60-80 per person. Half-day inshore charters: $600-800 for the boat. Full-day offshore charters: $1,500-2,500. Canyon trips for tuna/marlin: $2,500-4,000+.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter?
No. Charter and party boats carry licenses that cover all passengers. You only need a personal license for fishing from shore or your own boat.
What should I bring on a fishing charter?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, light layers, non-marking shoes, cooler for your catch (some boats provide), motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness. Rods/tackle are usually included.
When is the best time to go fishing in New Jersey?
Spring: striped bass run (April-May). Summer: fluke, sea bass, offshore tuna. Fall: striped bass, bluefish blitz. Offshore tuna fishing peaks June-October.
Can beginners go on fishing charters?
Absolutely. Party boats are ideal for beginners—crew provides instruction and helps with everything. Private charters can be tailored to any skill level.
Do you keep the fish you catch?
Yes, you keep legal-sized fish within regulations. Many marinas have fish cleaning services. Some charter captains will fillet your catch for a tip.
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