Montauk fishing charters have a long history of giving people the trip of a lifetime. From world record Sharks to huge schools of Stripers, you'll have some real tales to tell after a day at sea here. However, your experience will be very different depending on the trip you choose. With that in mind, here are your top options and what to expect on board.
Top Fishing Trips in Montauk
Inshore Charters
This is the perfect trip for families and first-timers. Spend a few hours reeling in tasty fish like Fluke, Seabass, Scup, and Stripers. Fill the cooler and hone your skills with expert guidance from your captain. Even a half day trip will give you plenty of action. And because you're in sheltered waters, you're much less likely to get seasick.
Striped Bass Charters
Montauk's Striped Bass run is simply legendary. Entire bays 'boil' with Bass in peak season. Speciality Striper trips are the perfect way for anglers with some experience to make the most of this incredible action. Captains often run these trips in the evening, when trophy fish are most active.
Tuna or Shark Charters
Looking for something bigger? How about a 500 lb Mako Shark. People have caught Makos twice this size out of Montauk before, not to mention monster Blue Sharks. More into Tuna fishing? You'll find Yellowfin, Bluefin, Bigeye, and Albacore here. These are full day charters for experienced anglers. You'll be fishing up to 30 miles out, targeting either Tuna or Sharks.
Canyon Charters
Canyon fishing charters are the ultimate adventure for serious sportfishing fanatics. Venture 70 miles out to the edge of the continental shelf, where Tuna, Sharks, Marlin, and Swordfish pack into underwater canyons like sardines in a can. These extended charters last 18 hours or more. The long run is well worth it once the reels start screaming, though.
What to Expect from Your Trip
Montauk Fishing Charter Prices
Montauk charter rates are largely based on the amount of fuel needed to get to the fishing grounds. Inshore and Striper trips are around $600–$700 for a half day, and $1,000 or more for a full day, depending on the size of the boat.
Heading offshore, things get more expensive. Tuna or Shark trips cost $1,500 or more. Canyon charters go the farthest offshore, so they're the most expensive. Expect to pay $2,500 for an extended day trip. Two-day trips are around $4,500.
How to Prepare
Charter boats in Montauk come with everything you'll need for the fishing itself. Just bring whatever else you want on your trip: food, drinks, sunscreen, and a jacket, as well as a cooler to put your catch in. Remember to bring some cash to tip the crew once they're done filleting all your fish for you!
Local captains have designed trips to suit any group, and they work hard to make your time with them special. On top of that, this is one of the most productive fisheries in the Northeast, with big fish at every depth. They may call Montauk 'The Last Resort,' but if you're looking for great fishing, it should be your first port of call.