Essex River Fishing Charters LLC 

4.9
(39 reviews)
 Perkins Marine, Essex, MA 01929, United States–

Essex River Fishing Charters LLC 

Essex, MA, United States
–
18 ft
4
4.9
(39 reviews)

Enjoy a great fishing charter for big Striped Bass in historic Essex, Massachusetts on the beautiful Essex River and nearby Cape Ann waters of Gloucester, Rockport, Ipswich, and Plum Island with Captain Eric Nelson.

Captain Eric Nelson has more than 45 years of experience fishing and catching stripers in the Essex River and surrounding waters of Ipswich, Cranes Beach, Plum Island, Gloucester, and Rockport.  He has 14 years of professional experience conducting fishing charters, since becoming Coast Guard licensed (Master - 50 ton). 

He is considered by most who know him to be an expert Striper fisherman who knows where to find fish and how to catch them. Captain Eric is known for his patient style and for being a great fishing instructor. You can be sure he will do whatever he can to make sure his customers have fun and catch fish!

Enjoy views of the river, marsh, Cranes Beach, and wildlife while fishing.  The Essex River is pristine and mostly surrounded by conservation land. It is described by many as one of the most beautiful areas on the East Coast. The captain specializes in live bait fishing for Stripers (there is nothing more exciting than catching a big Striper on a live Mackerel).

His boat Striper is a Parker 18’ with a 115 Yamaha four-stroke, with a tee top and forward casting platform - perfect for the river as handling any chop in the bay. He has the latest in fishing electronics technology. New in 2023 - Garmin GPSMAP 943XSV, with advanced fish-finding capability including side-looking sonar in addition to traditional sonar.

Capt. Eric caters to fishing pros as well as families wanting to have a fun day on the water.

Trip prices do not include optional gratuity, customary for good service, good fishing, or fish cleaning.

Enjoy a great fishing charter for big Striped Bass in historic Essex, Massachusetts on the beautiful Essex River and nearby Cape Ann waters of Gloucester, Rockport, Ipswich, and Plum Island with Captain Eric Nelson.

Captain Eric Nelson has more than 45 years of experience fishing and catching stripers in the Essex River and surrounding waters of Ipswich, Cranes Beach, Plum Island, Gloucester, and Rockport.  He has 14 years of professional experience conducting fishing charters, since becoming Coast Guard licensed (Master - 50 ton). 

He is considered by most who know him to be an expert Striper fisherman who knows where to find fish and how to catch them. Captain Eric is known for his patient style and for being a great fishing instructor. You can be sure he will do whatever he can to make sure his customers have fun and catch fish!

Enjoy views of the river, marsh, Cranes Beach, and wildlife while fishing.  The Essex River is pristine and mostly surrounded by conservation land. It is described by many as one of the most beautiful areas on the East Coast. The captain specializes in live bait fishing for Stripers (there is nothing more exciting than catching a big Striper on a live Mackerel).

His boat Striper is a Parker 18’ with a 115 Yamaha four-stroke, with a tee top and forward casting platform - perfect for the river as handling any chop in the bay. He has the latest in fishing electronics technology. New in 2023 - Garmin GPSMAP 943XSV, with advanced fish-finding capability including side-looking sonar in addition to traditional sonar.

Capt. Eric caters to fishing pros as well as families wanting to have a fun day on the water.

Trip prices do not include optional gratuity, customary for good service, good fishing, or fish cleaning.

Eric Nelson
Captain
Eric Nelson
16 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip availability and prices

Trip date:
Group Size:
September 2026
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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3 Hour Morning Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
3 hour trip starts at 8:30 AM
Seasonal trip
Apr 25 - Oct 15
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Mackerel (Atlantic)
US $500
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Half Day Morning Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 8:30 AM
Seasonal trip
Apr 25 - Oct 15
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Mackerel (Atlantic)
US $600
Entire boat: up to 4 people
5 Hour Fishing
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 8:30 AM
Seasonal trip
May 1 - Oct 15
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Mackerel (Atlantic)
US $725
Entire boat: up to 4 people
3/4 Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 8:30 AM
Seasonal trip
May 1 - Oct 15
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Mackerel (Atlantic)
US $850
Entire boat: up to 4 people
There is 1 person looking at this charter.

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.9
39 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (72)

What anglers say

100%
Recommended
100%
Caught fish

Reviews (39)

  • Thomas Gross
    Thomas Gross
    us
    Massachusetts, US
    •
    Member since 2026
    4.0
    Verified

    Great Time!

    3 Hour Morning Trip on August 2, 2026 • 4 adults • 2 children

    Eric was very knowledgeable of the area, fishing techniques and helped us with everything each step of the way. Kids enjoyed it, and we caught fish!

  • Kenny Deangelo
    Kenny Deangelo
    us
    Massachusetts, US
    •
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Excellent Day Fishing

    Half Day Morning Trip on July 26, 2025 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Captain Eric is a true professional and knows the Essex river like the back of his hand. Me and my 8 year old son had an amazing day, we caught a few Stripers including a 44 inch Monsta! The river is beautiful, very calm waters compared to the deep ocean, with plenty of fish and spectacular views. I highly recommend this charter for anyone looking to hook some large fish.

  • Connor Ferris
    Connor Ferris
    Repeat angler
    us
    New Hampshire, US
    •
    Member since 2023
    •
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Unforgettable day with Captain Eric!!

    September Half Day on October 8, 2023 • 2 adults

    I’ll start by saying that I can’t say enough great things about our 4hr trip with Eric. Eric was on point with communication before and during the trip, he made everything easy and extremely pleasant for us! He was happy to take us out despite the cold and breezy conditions today and put us directly on the bite!! We caught fish all morning and had an absolute blast!! Captain Eric treats his customers like his friends and is a professional when it comes to catching people big fish!! My fiancé caught her biggest fish ever at 42” and we caught countless keepers and a 38” also!!

  • Josh Quintal
    Josh Quintal
    us
    New Hampshire, US
    •
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    5 hr trip with group of four

    5 Hour Fishing on September 22, 2023 • 4 adults

    The boat was a little cramped with a group of four, so at first we weren't expecting much action. But the captain was very efficient at getting us right on top of fish. So we took turns two at a time fishing and the other two taking pictures, and everyone who dropped a line caught something fun. Those stripers are no joke either, none of us had ever caught anything bigger than about two feet long so when the first striper battled it's way into the deck, we were all blown away and the energy was electric. We spent about half the time in the mouth of the Essex and the second half out in the bay chasing schoolies at the surface! Definitely a good trip for 2-3 people, but 4 should expect to fish half the time. Even half time though, he was so good at finding the fish that you can also expect that everyone will catch something to talk about. Overall a fun and very exciting trip for my son's 16th birthday, and all of us were happy to leave with filets for dinner. Thanks again, we will be back I'm sure!

  • Connor Ferris
    Connor Ferris
    Repeat angler
    us
    New Hampshire, US
    •
    Member since 2023
    •
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Another great annual trup with Captain Eric!!

    5 Hour Fishing on September 21, 2025 • 4 adults

    This was our third year out with Captain Eric and maybe our best trip yet! We brought two friends this time and we all still caught fish with several in the 35-39” range. Book a trip with Eric you won’t regret it!

  • Michael Perriguey
    Michael Perriguey
    Repeat angler
    us
    Ohio, US
    •
    Member since 2024
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day charter

    September Half Day on June 14, 2024 • 2 adults

    A buddy and me did a half day with captain Eric and it was amazing. Best charter we have ever been on, captain eric took us out and immediately put us on fish. We caught a total of over 30 striper. This included a 37 and a 47 inch monster. Captain Eric was amazing and we would highly recommend using his services. We will most definitely be back!

  • Sabrina Côté
    Sabrina Côté
    ca
    Québec, Canada
    •
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    Dream day

    3/4 Day Trip on July 18, 2024 • 2 adults

    Our fishing trip was nothing short of fantastic! The capitain was incredibly knowledgeable and provided great tips that really enhanced the adventure. We managed to catch a many stripped bass, which made the day even more exciting. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience! We highly recommend this fishing experience !!

  • Wayne Austin
    Wayne Austin
    Repeat angler
    us
    New Jersey, US
    •
    Member since 2024
    •
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Spinning tackle stripers

    Full Day Trip on September 8, 2024 • 4 adults

    Capt Eric did a great job of finding us fish in different spots of the Essex river and staying on them to keep us hooking up with healthy stripers. Water is relatively calm on the river and protected from the swells of the open ocean, so it’s a pretty comfortable fishing setup on the boat.

  • Lawrence Card
    Lawrence Card
    Repeat angler
    us
    Connecticut, US
    •
    Member since 2023
    •
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    So much fun!!!

    September Half Day on October 11, 2023 • 4 adults

    We booked last minute for an end of season striper trip and honestly never expected to catch anything but were hopeful. Captain Eric knew exactly where the fish were and even went out the evening before (right after I booked) to confirm the fish were still there. We all caught fish and made some wonderful family memories! The boat was very nice and more than enough room for the 4 of us. Everything we needed to fish was provided. Perfect trip!!

  • Connor Ferris
    Connor Ferris
    Repeat angler
    us
    New Hampshire, US
    •
    Member since 2023
    •
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Captain Eric does it again!!

    September Half Day on September 15, 2024 • 2 adults

    What started off as a slow morning turned in to a great day! We had a great time on our second annual trip with Eric. Even though the fish seemed to have lock jaw today Captain Eric did not give up until he put us on the fish!! Thank you again we can’t wait for next year!!

Rating

4.9
39 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (72)

What anglers say

100%
Recommended
100%
Caught fish

All reviews (39)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 39 reviews
Jon Butler
Jon Butler
us
Massachusetts, US
•
Member since 2024
5.0
Verified
worked hard
Half Day Morning Trip on August 4, 2026 • 1 adult

rough day with few fish, but not the captains fault. he worked all the tricks and we got into a few stripers. will definitely get back out there with them.

Reported catch:
Striped Bass
Eric Nelson
Response from Captain

Jon, thank you!

Grampy Hakala
Grampy Hakala
us
Massachusetts, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Fishing with Eric
3/4 Day Trip on August 10, 2026 • 4 adults

Reported catch:
Striped Bass
Eric Nelson
Response from Captain

Thank you!

Matt Duggan
Matt Duggan
us
Massachusetts, US
•
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Fishing with Eric
Half Day Morning Trip on May 31, 2026 • 4 adults

Eric Nelson
Response from Captain

Thanks Matt. You all got some great fish today!

Thomas Gross
Thomas Gross
us
Massachusetts, US
•
Member since 2026
4.0
Verified
Great Time!
3 Hour Morning Trip on August 2, 2026 • 2 adults • 2 children

Eric was very knowledgeable of the area, fishing techniques and helped us with everything each step of the way. Kids enjoyed it, and we caught fish!

Reported catch:
Striped Bass
Atlantic Mackerel
Eric Nelson
Response from Captain

Thank you!

Kenny De Angelo
Kenny De Angelo
us
Massachusetts, US
•
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
Excellent Day Fishing
Half Day Morning Trip on July 26, 2025 • 1 adult • 1 child

Captain Eric is a true professional and knows the Essex river like the back of his hand. Me and my 8 year old son had an amazing day, we caught a few Stripers including a 44 inch Monsta! The river is beautiful, very calm waters compared to the deep ocean, with plenty of fish and spectacular views. I highly recommend this charter for anyone looking to hook some large fish.

Reported catch:
Striped Bass
Atlantic Mackerel
Eric Nelson
Response from Captain

Thanks Kenny. It was my pleasure taking you and your son out. You did great! I think he is hooked.

FAQs about Essex River Fishing Charters LLC

Essex River Fishing Charters LLC offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $500 per group - 3 Hour Morning Trip (3 hours)
  • US $600 per group - Half Day Morning Trip (4 hours)
  • US $725 per group - 5 Hour Fishing (5 hours)
  • US $850 per group - 3/4 Day Trip (6 hours)
When you book a trip with Essex River Fishing Charters LLC, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Essex River Fishing Charters LLC include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (All tackle provided.)
  • Live bait (When available.)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Captain Eric will be happy to clean your catch.)
  • Drinks (Water will be available (included))
  • Fishing license (My charter license covers all onboard.)
Essex River Fishing Charters LLC offers the following types of fishing:
  • River fishing
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
Essex River Fishing Charters LLC offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Drift fishing
Top targeted fish species with Essex River Fishing Charters LLC include:
  • Bass (Striped)
  • Bluefish (Tailor)
  • Mackerel (Atlantic)

Your captain

Eric Nelson
Eric Nelson

Essex, Massachusetts, United States

2 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
39 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since August 2023

Captain Eric Nelson has more than 45 years of experience fishing and catching Stripers in the Essex River and surrounding waters of Ipswich, Cranes Beach, Plum Island, Gloucester, and Rockport. He has been Coast Guard licensed (Master - 50 ton) since 2010. Captain Eric is considered, by most who know him, to be an expert Striper fisherman who knows where to find fish and how to catch them. He is known for his patient style and for being a great fishing instructor. You can be sure he will do whatever he can to make sure his customers have fun and catch fish! He has a master's degree in Oceanography and has spent his career as an Environmental Consultant, currently working on climate change, sea level rise, and coastal restoration issues. He is well-versed in the Essex River estuary and the rich local history of Essex and Cape Ann.

Eric Nelson
Eric Nelson
Fully verified
2
reports
39
reviews
2023
member since
~1h
response
Captain Eric Nelson has more than 45 years of experience fishing and catching Stripers in the Essex River and surrounding waters of Ipswich, Cranes Beach, Plum Island, Gloucester, and Rockport. He has been Coast Guard licensed (Master - 50 ton) since 2010. Captain Eric is considered, by most who know him, to be an expert Striper fisherman who knows where to find fish and how to catch them. He is known for his patient style and for being a great fishing instructor. You can be sure he will do whatever he can to make sure his customers have fun and catch fish! He has a master's degree in Oceanography and has spent his career as an Environmental Consultant, currently working on climate change, sea level rise, and coastal restoration issues. He is well-versed in the Essex River estuary and the rich local history of Essex and Cape Ann.

The fish you can target

Striped Bass
Striped Bass
Bluefish (Tailor)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Atlantic Mackerel
Atlantic Mackerel
Striped Bass
Striped Bass
Bluefish (Tailor)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Atlantic Mackerel
Atlantic Mackerel

Real catches by this captain

  • Another great annual trup with Captain Eric!!
    Connor F.
    Connor F.
  • Capt. Eric Nelson experience makes the difference
    John B.
    John B.
  • August fishing trip
    Peter M.
    Peter M.
  • Excellent Day Fishing
    Kenny D.
    Kenny D.
  • Captain Eric does it again!!
    Connor F.
    Connor F.
  • An amazing day!
    Robert K.
    Robert K.
  • Spinning tackle stripers
    Wayne A.
    Wayne A.
  • August fishing trip
    Kimberly K.
    Kimberly K.
  • Best charter trip ever taken.
    Rick L.
    Rick L.
  • Fantastic Time Fishing the Essex River
    Stephen K.
    Stephen K.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
18 ft
Year built
2006
Boat manufacturer
Parker
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 115HP
Max cruising speed
30 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

River Fishing
Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Trolling
Spinning
Drift Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
All tackle provided.
Live bait
When available.
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Captain Eric will be happy to clean your catch.
Drinks
Water will be available (included)
Fishing license
My charter license covers all onboard.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip

You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.

More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included

Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.

Child friendly
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain

When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:

 Cash

 Checks

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Essex River Fishing Charters LLC
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4.9
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