Wreck Site off the New Jersey coast
USS Tarantula (SP-124), a Navy patrol vessel converted from a 128-foot private steam yacht, sank October 28, 1918, after colliding with the Dutch liner SS Frisia eight miles southwest of the Fire Island Lightship. The wreck lies in approximately 115 feet of water, sitting low to the bottom — boilers rise just 7 feet, bow about 3 feet. Her identity as the "Good Gun Boat" was confirmed in 1985 when a diver recovered a bronze bell inscribed "Tarantula." Divers find WWI-era ammunition forward and fine china aft. The structure provides good habitat for tautog and black sea bass. Charter boats from Sandy Hook and Highlands marinas reach the Tarantula on standard afternoon trips during sea bass season.
Click a species row to see fishing methods, regulations, and tips.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowfin & Bluefin Tuna | Off | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off |
| Bluefish | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off |
| Black Sea Bass | Off | Off | Off | Off | Peak | Peak | Good | Good | Peak | Peak | Good | Off |
| Bonito & False Albacore | Off | Off | Off | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off |
Most charters depart from Belmar - Closest to offshore canyons
Atlantic City
Belmar
Belmar
Compare all tuna charters and book online
Check AvailabilityUSS Tarantula is known for Tuna, Bluefish, Bonito, False Albacore, Sea Bass.
USS Tarantula is accessible from Sandy Hook. Check with local charter captains for precise navigation coordinates.
Wreck sites provide structure that attracts fish. They are excellent for bottom fishing and often hold sea bass, tautog, and striped bass.
Check recent reports to see what's biting at USS Tarantula.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
Learn more →