Chesapeake Bay

181 Fishing Charters

Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Chesapeake Bay

Top Chesapeake Bay Destinations

Chesapeake Bay: 181 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(13 reviews)
Chesapeake Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $495
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(94 reviews)
Tracys Landing
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $735
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(56 reviews)
Baltimore
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $425
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(243 reviews)
Stevensville
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $490
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(37 reviews)
Madison
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
4.5 / 5
(153 reviews)
Norfolk
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(100 reviews)
Poquoson
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $200
Excellent
4.4 / 5
(14 reviews)
Hampton
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $575
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(54 reviews)
Virginia Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $400
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(77 reviews)
Hampton
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Chesapeake Bay

According to customer reviews, Rock On Fishing, Patent Pending Charters, and Chasinโ€™ Dreams Sportfishing are some of the most popular fishing charters in Chesapeake Bay. Full list of top fishing charters in Chesapeake Bay.

The average price for a private 4 hour Chesapeake Bay fishing trip is $555, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $907 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Rock On Fishing, Patent Pending Charters, and Chasinโ€™ Dreams Sportfishing all received great reviews from families who booked fishing trips in Chesapeake Bay.

The most popular fish species you can target are Striped Bass, Spanish Mackerel, and Bluefish. Top fishing techniques include Light Tackle, Bottom Fishing, and Trolling. Inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and river fishing are commonly offered by local guides.

 
There are few bodies of water as prolific as the Chesapeake Bay. With hundreds of rivers flowing into it, over 200 miles of bay, and access to the Atlantic, it’s an angler’s paradise. The best way to explore it is on one of the numerous Chesapeake Bay fishing charters, where a professional guide will take you to all the sweet spots to get your hands on the prized fish on offer.
 
Speaking of the fish, the list of creatures you can target is like a who’s who of inshore and nearshore fish. Striped Bass, known locally as Rockfish, are a must for all anglers who come here, but there’s plenty more where that came from. Perch, Red Drum, Black Drum, Black Seabass, Spotted Seatrout, and Flounder are just some of the delicious creatures you can find in the shallows.
 
On top of that, there’s also the chance to test your skills and strength against Tarpon in the hidden flats! Meanwhile, in the more open waters, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Bluefish, and many more may be biting. And that’s before we even think about offshore, where Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Billfish, and more await.
 
Chesapeake Bay fishing charters have something for everyone. From 4 hour dashes to the inshore shallows to mammoth multiday deep water adventures. Full day trips to target Rockfish are the most popular, though, as this all-round fish provides plenty of fun and even more meat. Visit anywhere on the Virginia or Maryland shoreline, and you’ll find exactly what you want. 
 

Rules & Regulations

Every adult angler in the Chesapeake Bay needs a fishing license. Both Virginia and Maryland saltwater licenses are valid, but you’ll need to sign up for the other’s Saltwater Angler Registration. For all other regulations, including size and bag limits, and closed seasons, head out with a reputable charter guide, who’ll make sure you fish within the law. 
 
Chesapeake Bay
Excellent
4.5 / 5
Based on 26046 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January

The cold can scare off anglers, but those of you bold enough can give it a try for some Perch and Crappie. Just make sure to stick to the flowing waters of the rivers to get in on the action.

February

There's a good chance it may be wet, so the fish won't be out on the bay. Pair up with a local guide to take you on the water, and you could hist the tributaries for Perch and Crappie.

March

It's officially Striped Bass season, although it may take some weeks to warm up. Speaking of warmups, you can do just that by heading to the creeks to fish for Perch, Crappie, and more.

April

It’s all about that trophy Rockfish. Get on the water and start searching for 50 pounds of pure strength. The weather’s just about right for fishing, and the season kicks off in earnest!

May

The hunt for trophy Rockfish continues as the crowds keep on growing. Luckily, there’s plenty of fish in the bay for all anglers that come out to play, so hit the bay, bridges, and flats for your prized catch. 

June

There's plenty going on as summer breaks through. Spot, Croaker, Bluefish, Perch, Trout, and Redfish all start to bite, while Rockfish remain the most sought-after fish. Get ready for a mixed bag!

July

The humd summer is here, but you don't want to miss the incredible bite of Rockfish, Redfish, Trout, and Cobia. Perch are also biting well and, later in the month, Spanish Mackerel start showing up.

August

The party is in full swing as trolling produces Cobia and Spanish Mackerel. Fish in the shallow waters to get Redfish and Trout, or rig your hook with Spot and try live lining for Rockfish. It's all going on!

September

The Mackerel bite still lingers, with Rockfish striking steadily in anticipation of "Rocktober." You can also get Croaker, Perch, Bluefish, Redfish, and Cobia, as the crowds die down but the fishing remains hot.

October

Read any Chesapeake Bay fishing report and you’ll see that Rockfish are getting bigger before their second annual epic bite explodes in November. You can also get Summer Flounder, Croaker, and Perch.

November

Showtime! Trophy Striped Bass are on fire and they should make it to the top of your wish list. Trolling with bait and lures is an effective way to get them, so settle in for a productive trip to sea.

December

There's no sign of the trophy Rockfish disappearing, and plenty of keen anglers are looking to keep warm by testing their strength against these monsters. Keep an eye on the weather, though, as it can get cold.

Chesapeake Bay Fishing Calendar

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Dress warmly, it was chilly earlier in the day. The marina is easy to find.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Dress warmly, it was chilly earlier in the day. The marina is easy to find.
Susan  K.
Susan K. Dillwyn, VA
Just remember it's for fun and there is no magic wand a Captian and crew can wave to make the fish bite. So if the fish don't cooperate then just enjoy the ride and the view and have fun.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Just remember it's for fun and there is no magic wand a Captian and crew can wave to make the fish bite. So if the fish don't cooperate then just enjoy the ride and the view and have fun.
Gina  N.
Gina N. Holland, AR
Yes, those Spanish Mackerels fish are some good fish to eat. The best I ever ate.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Yes, those Spanish Mackerels fish are some good fish to eat. The best I ever ate.
Andrena  A.
Andrena A. Washington, District Of Columbia
Fish the wrecks and off shore. With Four Reel Charters they have everything you need.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fish the wrecks and off shore. With Four Reel Charters they have everything you need.
Don  P.
Don P. Cuyahoga Falls, OH
The fishing in Poquoson is fantastic, and you will catch multiple species. And, the scenery is beyond beautiful. You also don't have a long haul to the fishing grounds, so you get to spend more time catching than traveling. I whole heartedly recommend taking a trip here, and Marshland Expeditions will never fail to please.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The fishing in Poquoson is fantastic, and you will catch multiple species. And, the scenery is beyond beautiful. You also don't have a long haul to the fishing grounds, so you get to spend more time catching than traveling. I whole heartedly recommend taking a trip here, and Marshland Expeditions will never fail to please.
Ted  P.
Ted P. Fredericksburg, VA
Go to the fishing piers with heavy duty set ups with cut bait or grab a gotcha plug and hammer fish
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go to the fishing piers with heavy duty set ups with cut bait or grab a gotcha plug and hammer fish
Joseph  T.
Joseph T. New York, New York
I think other than the weather fishing wouldโ€™ve been a little better, plus going in trophy rock season probably wouldnโ€™t do that again but we did catch some decent size cat fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I think other than the weather fishing wouldโ€™ve been a little better, plus going in trophy rock season probably wouldnโ€™t do that again but we did catch some decent size cat fish.
Melanie  T.
Melanie T. Woodbridge, Virginia
Just enjoy yourselves and be ready for an adventure because you never know what you will hook next!! And remember, not everything you hook is a keeper!! ?
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Just enjoy yourselves and be ready for an adventure because you never know what you will hook next!! And remember, not everything you hook is a keeper!! ?
Audrey  Y.
Audrey Y. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Know the fishing conditions and what is biting. Have realistic expectations for the time of the year and have fun.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Know the fishing conditions and what is biting. Have realistic expectations for the time of the year and have fun.
Jason  B.
Jason B. Virginia Beach, VA
Check fishing reports on line to get a good idea of what is being caught during the time frame you plan to fish.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Check fishing reports on line to get a good idea of what is being caught during the time frame you plan to fish.
Eric  B.
Eric B. UPPR MARLBORO, MD
Go out with Captain Wally - he's very knowledgeable. You'll have a great time and you'll catch lots of fish!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go out with Captain Wally - he's very knowledgeable. You'll have a great time and you'll catch lots of fish!
Patricia(Lynne)  M.
Patricia(Lynne) M. Mechanicsville, Maryland
Find bloodworms and lug worms before your trip. I don't recommend staying at the Quantity Inn in Gloucester. Under major construction and the front desk help is not professional or nice.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Find bloodworms and lug worms before your trip. I don't recommend staying at the Quantity Inn in Gloucester. Under major construction and the front desk help is not professional or nice.
Russell  O.
Russell O. Arrington, VA
To remember it's up to the fish whether they're going to bite or not they're not it's not the captain or the 1st mate are captain and 1st mate were great. Our captain tried very hard to put us on fish. The captain and 1st mate were a pleasure to be around and work with.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
To remember it's up to the fish whether they're going to bite or not they're not it's not the captain or the 1st mate are captain and 1st mate were great. Our captain tried very hard to put us on fish. The captain and 1st mate were a pleasure to be around and work with.
Billie  R.
Billie R. Elizabeth City, NC
Ask for the boat โ€œBIFF!!โ€ You will not be disappointed!! I truly found a Captain that cares the fishing and catch and release!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Ask for the boat โ€œBIFF!!โ€ You will not be disappointed!! I truly found a Captain that cares the fishing and catch and release!
Will  P.
Will P. Harrisonburg, VA
Yes would recommend fishing there lift lots of Weights before going your arms will be sore from Catching so much fish
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Yes would recommend fishing there lift lots of Weights before going your arms will be sore from Catching so much fish
Larry  H.
Larry H. King George, VA
Check out the list provided by the company and be prepared for an exciting adventure.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Check out the list provided by the company and be prepared for an exciting adventure.
Michelle  B.
Michelle B. Chesapeake, VA
To hot at current time for anything reliable catching, east coast is in a heat wave. It may be better at other times or in different years just not the time we went.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
To hot at current time for anything reliable catching, east coast is in a heat wave. It may be better at other times or in different years just not the time we went.
Richard  K.
Richard K. Virginia Beach, Virginia
I would just recommend making sure that the weather is right for you, especially if you are prone to seasickness (ours was great anyway).
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I would just recommend making sure that the weather is right for you, especially if you are prone to seasickness (ours was great anyway).
Anatoly  C.
Anatoly C. Annapolis, Maryland
Just know fishing can go either way. Some days you hit the jackpot, and other days you just catch some fish. But, a bad day fishing beats a good day at work, every time. Enjoy the ocean, forget the cell phone except to take photos, and have a relaxing day.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Just know fishing can go either way. Some days you hit the jackpot, and other days you just catch some fish. But, a bad day fishing beats a good day at work, every time. Enjoy the ocean, forget the cell phone except to take photos, and have a relaxing day.
Darrell  H.
Darrell H. Bardstown, Kentucky
Do your research on what you are looking for and for the group you are taking with you.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Do your research on what you are looking for and for the group you are taking with you.
MATTHEW  K.
MATTHEW K. Lititz, PA

Prowler Fishing Charter
Prowler Fishing Charter
Fishing charter in Norfolk
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(153 reviews)
Great job! The crew of the prowler did a fantastic job getting us on the fish and we even had a few keepers to put on the grill after. Thanks for a nice day fishing.
Jeremia  B.
Jeremia B.
Salty Siren Fishing
Salty Siren Fishing
Fishing charter in Annapolis
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
What an awesome day on the Chesapeake! Captain Chuck was great at communicating in the time leading up to the trip and we were able to locate the launch point easily. His boat is absolutely beautiful and my boyfriend had a blast fishing for his birthday. Captain Chuck was great company and we would highly recommend this trip to anyone interested in a great day of fishing. Thanks, Captain!
Amanda  F.
Amanda F. Arlington, VA
Johnny Quest Sport Fishing
Johnny Quest Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(9 reviews)
Great crew, great trip. I am looking forward to going again soon. The best charter I have been with in a long time.
Katelyn  O.
Katelyn O. Chesapeake, VA
Adventures On The Water
Adventures On The Water
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(41 reviews)
The bite started out slow but Capt Robert was determined to put us on some fish, and he did. We had a couple of first time fisherman and a 7 month old and capt was very accommodating and patient. Will book again when Iโ€™m back in the area.
Darrell  L.
Darrell L. Baton Rouge, LA
Double Play Sportfishing
Double Play Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(63 reviews)
My son and I were in VA beach for wrestling nationals. We decided to go fishing last minute. We couldnโ€™t go off shore due to wind and weather so we fished the inlet. The captain was very friendly and knowledgeable. We tried a variety of techniques and had a fun afternoon out in the water.
Michael  H.
Michael H.
Knot Wish'n Custom Charters
Knot Wish'n Custom Charters
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(142 reviews)
Captain Todd is awesome. Laid-back, and wants to have his customers catch some fish while enjoying the experience. Definitely coming back during the big fish season!
Aaron  M.
Aaron M. Chesapeake, VA
Double Play Sportfishing
Double Play Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(63 reviews)
Mother nature wasn't playing with us well today but we still got to go out and have an enjoyable time. Keith was polite and friendly. Luck wasn't on our side but that's how it goes sometimes. We would recommend fishing with Captain Keith. We will book with him again if we visit Virginia Beach again. Hopefully when it's warmer! Thanks Again, Keith!
Renee  B.
Renee B. Richmond, Virginia
AfishinadoVB Fishing Charters
AfishinadoVB Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(54 reviews)
Had a great 4 hour trip with Captain Kevin and First Mate Kenny! Will be coming back soon!
Michael  T.
Michael T. Cannelton, WV
Vistaladyfish
Vistaladyfish
Fishing charter in Havre de Grace
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
Captain Jeff was very knowledgeable and was a huge help on very short notice. Would recommend!
Mike  M.
Mike M. Baltimore, Maryland
Vistaladyfish
Vistaladyfish
Fishing charter in Havre de Grace
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
What an amazing day! Captain Jeff was awesome! We had very little fishing experience and he explained everything to my son so patiently. I would definately recommend Vista Lady to anyone looking for a great day of fishing!
Cheryl  B.
Cheryl B. Dundalk, MD
Desperate Measures Guide Service
Desperate Measures Guide Service
Fishing charter in Dameron
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(6 reviews)
Captain Cole is like a hound dog on the water looking for a bone. He never gives up until he finds it. Great atitude and treated my wife like a queen and she wants to fish again what more can a husband wish for who loves to fish.
Robert  F.
Robert F. Edgewater, Maryland
Salty Hooker Charters
Salty Hooker Charters
Fishing charter in Cape Charles
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(21 reviews)
We had a great trip. Captain Johnny had good communicationโ€™s before the trip. Very friendly, worked hard to put fish in the boat. Made good memories with my boys. Iโ€™m hoping to get back again in the fall for red drum.
David  B.
David B. Mountville, PA
Vickie Ann Charters
Vickie Ann Charters
Fishing charter in Deale
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(81 reviews)
Left the dock at 7 and had the first bass as soon as the rods were in. Got 20 plus nice fish. Great morning fishing.
Phillip  C.
Phillip C. Silver Spring, Maryland
Patent Pending Charters
Patent Pending Charters
Fishing charter in Tracys Landing
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(94 reviews)
Amazing trip from beginning to end! Very funny and friendly Captain. He definitely knows where the fish are, we all maxed out very quickly. The boat was great and the equipment provided was perfect. The first mate was very helpful, hard working and made sure everyone stayed safe. I am already getting together with a few friends and family to start planning for multiple trips with Capt John. Thank you for the experience and the Frito Lay joke ๐Ÿ˜† ๐Ÿคฃ
Peter  F.
Peter F. Johnstown, PA
Adventures On The Water
Adventures On The Water
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(41 reviews)
Captian Robert made the whole trip fun! We caught fish, learned some fishing tips and laughed the whole time. My family and I are really greatful for the opportunity to fish with him and will definitely be back!
Keith  P.
Keith P. St. Louis, MO
Patent Pending Charters
Patent Pending Charters
Fishing charter in Tracys Landing
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(94 reviews)
My family and I have been on many charters on the bay and this was by far the best! The boat was immaculate and the Captain and Mate were personable and knowledgeable. We started catching fish within an hour of dropping lines. The subpar captains around us barely caught any fish, but we got our limit. There's really nothing negative to say about this charter. Be sure to get the crabcakes they are delicious!
Dave  L.
Dave L. Parkville, MD
Patent Pending Charters
Patent Pending Charters
Fishing charter in Tracys Landing
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(94 reviews)
Capt John and Ronnie were awesome, and put us on fish until we got our limit. On top of that the lunch he prepared was delicious! Would highly recommend and would definitely book again!!
Sujit  P.
Sujit P. Tampa, FL
Thomason Tradition Sport Fishing
Thomason Tradition Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Solomons
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(38 reviews)
Rockfishing was great, Captain Drey was amazing. Knew where the fish were.
Ronald  L.
Ronald L. Baxter, MN
PrimeTime Charters
PrimeTime Charters
Fishing charter in Stevensville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(243 reviews)
Great day to be out. We hooked up with 20 mins and every body caught the limit. I highly recommend this capt and mate. Looking forward to next trip.
Eugene  T.
Eugene T. Townsend, DE
Desperate Measures Guide Service
Desperate Measures Guide Service
Fishing charter in Dameron
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(6 reviews)
Great trip with Captain Cole. Got everyone into multiple fish. Perfect day capped with fast topwater action.
David  H.
David H. Takoma Park, MD