Best Party Boats
Fun-filled fishing trips and cruises for groups looking for a great time on the water
10
Party Boats
5
Full-Day Trips
3
Family-Friendly
Fish Without the Fuss
Party boats are the most accessible way to go fishing at the Jersey Shore. No experience, no license, no equipment—just show up and the crew handles the rest. Perfect for families, groups, and first-time anglers.
Everyone catches fish. The crew knows the best spots, baits your hook, and helps you reel in your catch. Most trips target sea bass, fluke, bluefish, and porgies depending on the season.
Major party boat hub with large vessels and frequent trips
Big Mohawk
Belmar · Belmar Marina
One of the largest party boats on the Jersey Shore, the Big Mohawk offers comfortable fishing trips with a friendly crew.
- ✓100+ passengers
- ✓Full galley
- ✓AC cabin
- ✓Experienced crew
Trips: Half-day/Full-day
Jamaica II
Belmar · Belmar Marina
Popular half-day and night fishing trips targeting seasonal species from blues to blackfish.
- ✓Night trips
- ✓Half-day options
- ✓Family-friendly
- ✓Rod rentals
Trips: Half-day/Night
Popular port with reliable fishing and easy access
Norma K III
Point Pleasant Beach · Manasquan Inlet
Long-running party boat known for consistent catches and a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels.
- ✓All skill levels
- ✓Consistent catches
- ✓Friendly crew
- ✓Morning trips
Trips: Half-day/Full-day
Captain Cal II
Point Pleasant Beach · Manasquan Inlet
Fast, comfortable party boat with trips targeting seasonal favorites from fluke to sea bass.
- ✓Fast boat
- ✓Heated cabin
- ✓Full-day trips
- ✓Inshore fishing
Trips: Half-day/Full-day
Productive fishing grounds near Barnegat Inlet
Miss Barnegat Light
Barnegat Light · Barnegat Light Marina
Legendary party boat fishing the productive waters around Barnegat Inlet for 40+ years.
- ✓40+ years experience
- ✓Offshore trips
- ✓Full-day options
- ✓Productive waters
Trips: Half-day/Full-day
Big Blue
Beach Haven · LBI
Long Beach Island party boat with affordable trips for families and fishing enthusiasts.
- ✓LBI departures
- ✓Family-friendly
- ✓Affordable rates
- ✓Half-day trips
Trips: Half-day
Fishing trips with casino entertainment nearby
Atlantic Star
Atlantic City · Farley State Marina
Atlantic City's premier party boat offering half-day and full-day trips with casino-adjacent docking.
- ✓Casino adjacent
- ✓Full-day trips
- ✓AC cabin
- ✓Large capacity
Trips: Half-day/Full-day
Duke O' Fluke
Somers Point · Somers Point Marina
Family-friendly party boat specializing in fluke fishing with trips departing near Ocean City.
- ✓Fluke specialists
- ✓Family-friendly
- ✓Bay fishing
- ✓Affordable
Trips: Half-day
Southern shore fishing in some of NJ's best waters
Cape May Lady
Cape May · Miss Chris Marina
Cape May's go-to party boat for half-day trips targeting flounder, sea bass, and bluefish.
- ✓Half-day trips
- ✓Sea bass
- ✓Bluefish
- ✓Beginner-friendly
Trips: Half-day
Porgy IV
Wildwood · Wildwood Marina
Budget-friendly party boat with morning and afternoon trips close to the Wildwood boardwalk.
- ✓Budget-friendly
- ✓Two trips daily
- ✓Near boardwalk
- ✓Porgies & sea bass
Trips: Half-day
Party Boat Tips
Arrive Early
Get there 30-45 minutes before departure to get a good spot along the rail and settle in.
Bring Dramamine
Take motion sickness medicine before boarding. Even experienced boaters can get seasick.
Dress in Layers
It's always cooler on the water. Bring a jacket even on warm days.
Bring a Cooler
Pack snacks and drinks. Most boats allow coolers and some have galleys for hot food.
Book fishing in New Jersey
Compare prices and read reviews from verified travelers
Fishing Essentials
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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
FAQ
What is a party boat fishing trip?
Party boats (also called head boats) are large fishing vessels that take 50-150 passengers for half-day or full-day fishing trips. No experience needed—crew helps with bait, tackle, and fish.
How much do party boat trips cost?
Half-day trips run $45-65 per person, full-day trips $80-120. Rod rental is usually $10-15 extra. Many boats offer senior and child discounts.
Do I need to bring my own fishing equipment?
No, party boats provide all equipment. You can rent rods and reels onboard, and bait is typically included in the fare. Bring snacks, drinks, and sunscreen.
What fish do party boats catch?
Summer targets include sea bass, fluke, bluefish, and porgies. Winter trips go for blackfish (tautog) and cod. Spring and fall bring striped bass runs.
Do I need a fishing license for party boats?
No, the boat's license covers all passengers. This is one of the easiest ways to go fishing in New Jersey without worrying about permits.
Are party boats good for beginners?
Absolutely! Crew members help with everything from baiting hooks to reeling in fish. They're perfect for first-timers and families with kids.
Related Guides
More Fishing Fun
Explore all fishing options at the shore