New York City is globally famous for its urban vibe. But did you know that this concrete jungle is known for its angling opportunities, too? With more than 500 miles of shoreline and over 40 islands under its belt, the NYC angling scene is simply stunning. To get the most out of your NYC fishing trip, team up with one of many first-class New York City fishing charter operators.
Apart from top-notch charter boats, the "Big Apple" is home to an impressive number of both freshwater and saltwater fish species. Black Seabass, Flounder, Porgy, Weakfish, Tautog, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, and Sunfish are just some of the most commonly caught residents. Striped Bass, however, are the real superstars of the area.
While angling is a year-round activity in NYC, the availability of fish species varies depending on the time of the year. Weakfish, for example, are up for grabs whenever you set your mind to target them. Stripers are abundant from spring to fall. Meanwhile, Bluefish thrive in late summer. So, you could say that NYC's unofficial angling season runs from April to November.
Be it spring or fall, river or bay, NYC fishing charters will take you where the fish are biting. The captains born and raised here know the Hudson River, the East River, Jamaica Bay, and Raritan Bay like the back of their hands. Their offers range from 3-hour inshore trips to full day offshore adventures. All you have to do is book a trip and they'll take care of everything else.
Rules & Regulations
If you're fishing the bay with a certified NYC charter operator, you don't have to worry about any permits. On the other hand, freshwater angling is heavily regulated and you can't fish without a valid fishing license. Also, season, size, and bag limits differ depending on the fishery, so make sure you're familiar with the latest rules and regulations before wetting your line in NYC waters.