
When you think of New York City, you probably imagine bright lights, busy streets, and that world-famous skyline – however, Captain Tom LaCognata is here to show you a whole other side to the “Big Apple.” Join him on board Rockaway Fishing Charters, located in Brooklyn, where his mission is simple: “To put you on fish and make sure you have an enjoyable, comfortable, and safe time out on the water.”
Capt. Tom is a native New Yorker who’s been fishing for over 45 years. He’s explored many local fisheries, as well as those further afield, including Costa Rica, Mexico, and Aruba. He decided to turn his passion for angling into a career and offers first-class fishing trips that are suitable for anglers of all ages and abilities, including children. They’re completely customizable, too – let him know what you want to hook, and he’ll take you to the hottest spots around!
You’ll be fishing from your captain’s 36’ Luhrs offshore sportfishing vessel, perfectly built to tackle the waters of Jamaica Bay, as well as the open ocean. She can accommodate up to 6 guests, so bring along the entire family, or settle some scores with your best angling buddies! On board, you’ll find a full toilet, top-of-the-line navigational gear, life jackets for all ages, a multi-media system, and outriggers for maximum fishability.
Capt. Tom caters his trips to all types of anglers, so there’s something to suit every skill level. Want to take your family on an unforgettable vacation? Spend the day Fluke fishing – these fish are plenty of fun to catch, and also make for tasty table fare! Want to hook some game fish? Get ready for plenty of rod-bending action as you chase Striper (Striped Bass), Bluefish, and more. For hardcore anglers, come face-to-gills with some impressive marine life as you target a variety of Shark species.
Your trip includes Penn, Shimano, and Daiwa rods and reels, bait, tackle, and a fishing license. Come aboard Rockaway Fishing Charters to see another side of New York!
Rating summary
Photos & videos by reviewers (1631)
Angler rating
Anglers claimed
Good experience
100%
Appropriate for children
98%
Friendly captain
100%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Caught fish
96%
Sep 7, 2025
4 Hour Trip – Captain's Choice (AM)
I really enjoyed the fishing trip. My husband was surprised because he thought he was going on a big charter boat like we usually do. This year I decided to do something special. Let me tell tell you, Captain Captain and his crew man did not disappoint. They were there to help anyone with fishing. They gave advice on fishing and things to do in the future. The atmosphere was very laid-back. I would never do a big chargeable again. I will always do a private charter from this day forward and I’m only going fishing on the “Goin Fishing” boat if you’re thinking of doing a private charter boat, let this be your first stop. You will not be disappointed and last, but not least we left with plenty of Seabass, that was caught.
I really enjoyed the fishing trip. My husband was surprised because he thought he was going on a big charter boat like we usually...
Aug 9, 2025
7 Hour Trip – "Shark Boss" Special
Went on two sharking trips with Tom, both of which rank among the best fishing trips of my life. During the first one, hooked two 400–500 pound threshers, which broke off after grueling multi-hour battles that required us to switch off and towel off like Jake Lamotta between rounds. Despite losing them, it was still a great expedition…never knew sharks could peel drag like a marlin or tuna. Second trip was wall-to-wall action with each angler landing at least one 100-200 pound brown shark. Tom is both super knowledgeable and down to earth and not the egomaniac “Captain Quint” type you might associate with shark fishing. Great times.
Went on two sharking trips with Tom, both of which rank among the best fishing trips of my life. During the first one, hooked...
Yorktown Heights, NY
Jul 11, 2025
4 Hour Trip – Fluke (PM)
We booked a charter for seven adults for my husband’s birthday. Since he was the only one with fishing experience, Capt. Tommy kept us in the calm waters of Jamaica Bay. He knew exactly where to take us and all seven of us caught multiple fish - fluke, flounder, sea robins, sand sharks and we ended the day with a twenty minute battle with a sting wray! It was epic! Everything you needed to fish was provided and Tommy and his mate Sean were extremely attentive. They took care of everything and nothing seemed to faze them. They offered tips when asked and were ready to offer a hand if needed. Very easy company and friendly. Tommy seemed to know exactly when to move to a new spot so it seemed like one of us was always reeling something in. The boat was spacious and plenty of room to fish or to take a break and just enjoy the views. The bathroom facilities were clean and easily accessible. Everything was well-maintained and easy to use. We were thrilled to enjoy a private charter at an economical price and have already decided that this will be an annual trip! We cannot wait to get back on the water and highly recommend Capt Tommy Lacognata for your next fishing trip!
We booked a charter for seven adults for my husband’s birthday. Since he was the only one with fishing experience, Capt. Tommy...









Jun 28, 2025
4 Hour Trip – Captain's Choice (AM)
Rockaway Fishing Charter wa Captain Tom and Rob were truly AWESOME!!!! We booked Rockaway Fishing Charter for our very first family fishing trip, and it was absolutely amazing from start to finish! Captain Tom and Rob was incredibly friendly, patient, and knowledgeable—perfect for beginners like us. They made sure we were comfortable, taught us the basics, and celebrated every catch like it was a big one lol. The boat was clean, well-equipped, and spacious enough for our whole group to enjoy. The captain knew all the best spots, and we caught more fish than we ever expected! The kids had a blast, and we made memories we’ll be talking about for years to come. Whether you’re experienced or trying it for the first time like we did, this charter is a fantastic choice. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun, family-friendly fishing adventure! My daughter also wanted me to mention that she caught two sharks which we were able to take home. Actually, it was tonight’s dinner along with the fluke we caught. To be honest I wasn’t thrilled about cooking shark for dinner but the kids insisted. Turns out, it was actually delicious. Rockaway Charters thank you again for an amazing experience. We will definitely see you again soon! .
Rockaway Fishing Charter wa Captain Tom and Rob were truly AWESOME!!!! We booked Rockaway Fishing Charter for our very first...
Aug 31, 2025
4 Hour Trip – Captain's Choice (AM)
After a failed self-taught fishing attempt a few years back, our family decided to leave it to the pros. Did. Not. Disappoint. Captain Tom & his Expert Son has taught us so much during this trip, automating efforts where possible while super sharp on finding the right places to fish and know when to change places where necessary. I believe we got: Smooth dog fish x 3, Weak fish, Sea robin x 2, Fluke x 3 over a few hours. Life lessons learned while being fun. My daughter (11) had a blast. Highly recommend.
After a failed self-taught fishing attempt a few years back, our family decided to leave it to the pros. Did. Not. Disappoint....
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Rating summary
Photos & videos by reviewers (1631)
Angler rating
Anglers claimed
Good experience
100%
Appropriate for children
98%
Friendly captain
100%
Satisfied with the boat
100%
Recommend this charter
100%
Caught fish
96%

Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
4 Hour Trip – Captain's Choice (AM) on September 7, 2025
I really enjoyed the fishing trip. My husband was surprised because he thought he was going on a big charter boat like we usually do. This year I decided to do something special. Let me tell tell you, Captain Captain and his crew man did not disappoint. They were there to help anyone with fishing. They gave advice on fishing and things to do in the future. The atmosphere was very laid-back. I would never do a big chargeable again. I will always do a private charter from this day forward and I’m only going fishing on the “Goin Fishing” boat if you’re thinking of doing a private charter boat, let this be your first stop. You will not be disappointed and last, but not least we left with plenty of Seabass, that was caught.
I really enjoyed the fishing trip. My husband was surprised because he thought he was going on a big charter boat like we usually do. This year I decided to do something special. Let me tell tell you, Captain Captain and his crew man did not disappoint. They were there to help anyone with fishing. They gave advice on fishing and things to do in the future. The atmosphere was very laid-back. I would never do a big chargeable again. I will always do a private charter from this day forward and...
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
7 Hour Trip – "Shark Boss" Special on August 9, 2025
Went on two sharking trips with Tom, both of which rank among the best fishing trips of my life. During the first one, hooked two 400–500 pound threshers, which broke off after grueling multi-hour battles that required us to switch off and towel off like Jake Lamotta between rounds. Despite losing them, it was still a great expedition…never knew sharks could peel drag like a marlin or tuna. Second trip was wall-to-wall action with each angler landing at least one 100-200 pound brown shark. Tom is both super knowledgeable and down to earth and not the egomaniac “Captain Quint” type you might associate with shark fishing. Great times.
Went on two sharking trips with Tom, both of which rank among the best fishing trips of my life. During the first one, hooked two 400–500 pound threshers, which broke off after grueling multi-hour battles that required us to switch off and towel off like Jake Lamotta between rounds. Despite losing them, it was still a great expedition…never knew sharks could peel drag like a marlin or tuna. Second trip was wall-to-wall action with each angler landing at least one 100-200 pound brown shark. Tom...

Yorktown Heights, NY
Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
4 Hour Trip – Fluke (PM) on July 11, 2025
We booked a charter for seven adults for my husband’s birthday. Since he was the only one with fishing experience, Capt. Tommy kept us in the calm waters of Jamaica Bay. He knew exactly where to take us and all seven of us caught multiple fish - fluke, flounder, sea robins, sand sharks and we ended the day with a twenty minute battle with a sting wray! It was epic! Everything you needed to fish was provided and Tommy and his mate Sean were extremely attentive. They took care of everything and nothing seemed to faze them. They offered tips when asked and were ready to offer a hand if needed. Very easy company and friendly. Tommy seemed to know exactly when to move to a new spot so it seemed like one of us was always reeling something in. The boat was spacious and plenty of room to fish or to take a break and just enjoy the views. The bathroom facilities were clean and easily accessible. Everything was well-maintained and easy to use. We were thrilled to enjoy a private charter at an economical price and have already decided that this will be an annual trip! We cannot wait to get back on the water and highly recommend Capt Tommy Lacognata for your next fishing trip!
We booked a charter for seven adults for my husband’s birthday. Since he was the only one with fishing experience, Capt. Tommy kept us in the calm waters of Jamaica Bay. He knew exactly where to take us and all seven of us caught multiple fish - fluke, flounder, sea robins, sand sharks and we ended the day with a twenty minute battle with a sting wray! It was epic! Everything you needed to fish was provided and Tommy and his mate Sean were extremely attentive. They took care of everything...










Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
4 Hour Trip – Captain's Choice (AM) on June 28, 2025
Rockaway Fishing Charter wa Captain Tom and Rob were truly AWESOME!!!! We booked Rockaway Fishing Charter for our very first family fishing trip, and it was absolutely amazing from start to finish! Captain Tom and Rob was incredibly friendly, patient, and knowledgeable—perfect for beginners like us. They made sure we were comfortable, taught us the basics, and celebrated every catch like it was a big one lol. The boat was clean, well-equipped, and spacious enough for our whole group to enjoy. The captain knew all the best spots, and we caught more fish than we ever expected! The kids had a blast, and we made memories we’ll be talking about for years to come. Whether you’re experienced or trying it for the first time like we did, this charter is a fantastic choice. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun, family-friendly fishing adventure! My daughter also wanted me to mention that she caught two sharks which we were able to take home. Actually, it was tonight’s dinner along with the fluke we caught. To be honest I wasn’t thrilled about cooking shark for dinner but the kids insisted. Turns out, it was actually delicious. Rockaway Charters thank you again for an amazing experience. We will definitely see you again soon! .
Rockaway Fishing Charter wa Captain Tom and Rob were truly AWESOME!!!! We booked Rockaway Fishing Charter for our very first family fishing trip, and it was absolutely amazing from start to finish! Captain Tom and Rob was incredibly friendly, patient, and knowledgeable—perfect for beginners like us. They made sure we were comfortable, taught us the basics, and celebrated every catch like it was a big one lol. The boat was clean, well-equipped, and spacious enough for our whole group to enjoy....

Experience:
Boat
Crew
Overall
4 Hour Trip – Captain's Choice (AM) on August 31, 2025
After a failed self-taught fishing attempt a few years back, our family decided to leave it to the pros. Did. Not. Disappoint. Captain Tom & his Expert Son has taught us so much during this trip, automating efforts where possible while super sharp on finding the right places to fish and know when to change places where necessary. I believe we got: Smooth dog fish x 3, Weak fish, Sea robin x 2, Fluke x 3 over a few hours. Life lessons learned while being fun. My daughter (11) had a blast. Highly recommend.
After a failed self-taught fishing attempt a few years back, our family decided to leave it to the pros. Did. Not. Disappoint. Captain Tom & his Expert Son has taught us so much during this trip, automating efforts where possible while super sharp on finding the right places to fish and know when to change places where necessary. I believe we got: Smooth dog fish x 3, Weak fish, Sea robin x 2, Fluke x 3 over a few hours. Life lessons learned while being fun. My daughter (11) had a blast. Highly...
