Party Boat Fishing
Affordable group fishing trips at the Jersey Shore
Party boats (also called head boats) are the most affordable way to experience deep sea fishing at the Jersey Shore. For $50-90 per person, you get a spot on a large vessel with 20-80+ other anglers, plus all tackle, bait, and fishing licenses included.
Party boats depart from ports like Belmar, Point Pleasant Beach, and Atlantic City daily throughout the summer season. No experience is requiredβthe crew will teach you everything you need to know.
Why Choose a Party Boat?
Affordable
Pay only $50-90/person instead of $500-2,000 for a private charter.
All-Inclusive
Rod, reel, tackle, bait, and fishing license typically included.
No Experience Needed
Crew teaches everything. Perfect for beginners and families.
Social Experience
Meet fellow anglers and share fishing tips and stories.
Expert Crew
Captains know the best spots. Mates help bait hooks and net fish.
Flexible Scheduling
Multiple trips daily. Walk-ups often welcome on weekdays.
Party Boats by Port
Belmar
Premier party boat port with legendary fleets like the Big Mohawk and Jamaica.
SS Miss Belmar
Party Boat
The largest party boat in Belmar Marina at 125 feet, the SS Miss Belmar has maintained #1 customer satisfaction ratings for 23 consecutive years. A true Belmar institution offering comfortable fishing for striped bass, bluefish, sea bass, and fluke.
- βLargest party boat in Belmar Marina
- β#1 customer satisfaction for 23 consecutive years
- βFull galley service
Target Species
Point Pleasant Beach
Home to The Gambler, Queen Mary, and family-run operations since 1949.
The Gambler
Party Boat
A family operation since 1949, The Gambler is the widest party boat in its class featuring underwater hull lights and heated/AC cabin for year-round comfort. Located at 59 Inlet Drive.
- βFamily operation since 1949
- βWidest party boat in class
- βUnderwater hull lights
- βHeated/AC cabin
Target Species
Queen Mary
Party Boat β’ Capt. David Riback
An 85-foot party boat captained by David Riback, sailing daily open-boat trips at 7:30 AM. Currently operates at 50% capacity for passenger comfort, ensuring a quality experience for all anglers.
- βOperates at 50% capacity for comfort
- βExperienced Captain David Riback
- β85-foot vessel
Target Species
Fish Monger Charters
Party Boat
A 50-foot custom vessel accommodating up to 46 passengers. Perfect for larger groups and corporate outings while still offering quality fishing for a variety of species.
- β46 passenger capacity
- βGreat for groups
- βCustom 50-foot vessel
Target Species
Atlantic City
Gardner's Basin fleet offering unique back bay and offshore options.
Highroller Fishing
Party Boat
Operating from Gardner's Basin, Highroller is the only back bay party boat in Atlantic City. Features a "No Seasick Guarantee" making it perfect for families and first-time anglers. Calm bay waters ensure a comfortable experience.
- βNo Seasick Guarantee
- βOnly back bay party boat in AC
- βPerfect for families
- βCalm bay waters
Target Species
Atlantic City Fishing Center
Party Boat
A full-service fishing center offering party boat trips, private charters, and fishing supplies. Located near the inlet for quick access to both bay and ocean fishing grounds.
- βFull-service fishing center
- βQuick inlet access
- βBay and ocean fishing
Target Species
Barnegat Light
Viking Village heritage. Gateway to LBI fishing grounds.
Miss Beach Haven
Party Boat β’ Capt. Frank Camarda
An 80-foot party boat captained by Frank Camarda, departing from Beach Haven. One of the premier party boats on Long Beach Island, offering consistent catches and experienced crew.
- β80-foot vessel
- βCaptain Frank Camarda
- βPremier LBI party boat
Target Species
Cape May
Southernmost NJ port with Delaware Bay access and Miss Chris fleet.
Miss Chris Boats
Party Boat
Operating an 80-foot air-conditioned vessel, Miss Chris Boats offers three daily trips: Early Bird (8 AM), Late Riser (1 PM), and Sunset (6 PM). A Cape May fishing institution perfect for families and casual anglers.
- βThree daily departure times
- βAir-conditioned 80-foot vessel
- βGreat for families
- βSunset trips available
Target Species
Cape May Lady
Party Boat
A comfortable party boat offering affordable fishing trips in Cape May Harbor and Delaware Bay. Great for beginners and families looking for a relaxed fishing experience.
- βAffordable family fishing
- βDelaware Bay and harbor fishing
- βGreat for beginners
Target Species
Porgy IV
Party Boat
A classic Cape May party boat focusing on bottom fishing for sea bass, porgies, and fluke. Consistent catches and experienced crew make this a local favorite.
- βBottom fishing specialists
- βConsistent sea bass catches
- βLocal favorite
Target Species
Book a New Jersey Fishing Charter
Find and book fishing trips departing from New Jersey. Deep sea, inshore, and everything in between.
Powered by FishingBooker β’ Secure online booking β’ Free cancellation on most trips
What to Expect on a Party Boat Trip
Before You Go
- β’ Call ahead or check website for schedule and pricing
- β’ Take seasickness medication the night before
- β’ Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure
- β’ Bring a cooler for your catch
- β’ Wear layersβit is cooler on the water
During the Trip
- β’ Crew will assign you a spot along the rail
- β’ Mate will rig your line and show you technique
- β’ Stay at your spot unless moving around
- β’ Ask for helpβmates are there to assist
- β’ Tip the mate 15-20% at trip end
Party Boat vs. Private Charter
| Feature | Party Boat | Private Charter |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50-90/person | $475-2,500+ total |
| Group Size | 20-80+ anglers | Up to 6 people (private) |
| Trip Length | 4-10 hours (set schedule) | 4-12 hours (flexible) |
| Gear Included | Yes, basic gear | Yes, premium gear |
| Species Targeted | General (what is biting) | Your choice (custom) |
| Best For | Beginners, solo, budget | Groups, specific goals |
Party Boat FAQs
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