Chesapeake Bay

183 Fishing Charters

Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Chesapeake Bay

Top Chesapeake Bay Destinations

Chesapeake Bay: 183 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(21 reviews)
Chesapeake Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $495
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(97 reviews)
Tracys Landing
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $735
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Baltimore
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $425
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(250 reviews)
Stevensville
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $490
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(83 reviews)
Hampton
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $300
Excellent
4.5 / 5
(159 reviews)
Norfolk
 Instant Confirmation
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(55 reviews)
Virginia Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $400
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(38 reviews)
Madison
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $600
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(76 reviews)
Deale
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $595
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(167 reviews)
Baltimore
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $750

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Chesapeake Bay

According to customer reviews, Fish w/Rock On Charter 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 $563, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $926 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fish w/Rock On Charter 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 26559 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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Every fishing trip is a fishing trip make sure you are going to have fun weather you catch fish or not before you go and you canโ€™t go wrong catching fish will be a bonus.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Every fishing trip is a fishing trip make sure you are going to have fun weather you catch fish or not before you go and you canโ€™t go wrong catching fish will be a bonus.
Theodore  B.
Theodore B. Temple Hills, MD
It's a great place to booked your fishing trip. Very easy and convenient to get too with adequate parking
Excellent
5.0 / 5
It's a great place to booked your fishing trip. Very easy and convenient to get too with adequate parking
Tony  C.
Tony C. Alexandria, Virginia
Know your regs. I didnโ€™t know the keeper limit was still 36โ€, so we didnโ€™t bring home fish. That was my bad. Everything else was pretty perfect.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Know your regs. I didnโ€™t know the keeper limit was still 36โ€, so we didnโ€™t bring home fish. That was my bad. Everything else was pretty perfect.
Matthew  A.
Matthew A. Frederick, Maryland
Talk to the captain about what your looking to catch and the best time to go ! The caption told us the end of May is the best time !
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Talk to the captain about what your looking to catch and the best time to go ! The caption told us the end of May is the best time !
Jonathon  P.
Jonathon P. Ogdensburg, NY
Pay attention to what the fish are doing and what is running seasonally. Reds, Cobia, Striper, and so on.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Pay attention to what the fish are doing and what is running seasonally. Reds, Cobia, Striper, and so on.
Jeremy  B.
Jeremy B. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Come expecting to have fun and be sure to communicate with Captain Todd and let him know what your needs are, heโ€™s there to help and guide you.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Come expecting to have fun and be sure to communicate with Captain Todd and let him know what your needs are, heโ€™s there to help and guide you.
Cassandra  D.  F.
Cassandra D. F. Richmond, Virginia
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

Maryland Fishing and Hunting
Maryland Fishing and Hunting
Fishing charter in Stevensville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(102 reviews)
Very knowledgeable and respectful crews. We have a party of 7, and we all are going home with a 5 pound rock fish. The captainโ€™s fishing preparation is our key to success.
Steven  G.
Steven G. Daniels, MD
Marshland Expeditions
Marshland Expeditions
Fishing charter in Poquoson
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(103 reviews)
My boys and I had a great time with Sonny. Highly recommend. Very attentive and very knowledgeable. Will definitely be using him again.
Joshua  H.
Joshua H. Portsmouth, Virginia
PrimeTime Charters
PrimeTime Charters
Fishing charter in Stevensville
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(250 reviews)
This was our second time out with Captain D and we had a great time. Fish werenโ€™t biting as much as last time but not for a lack of trying and we still came home with a couple of meals in the cooler and happy kids. Will definitely be back. Mate Kevin was great too.
Regan  S.
Regan S. Silver Spring, Maryland
Fish w/Rock On Charter Fishing!!!
Fish w/Rock On Charter Fishing!!!
Fishing charter in Chesapeake Beach
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(21 reviews)
The Captain and Crew were phenomenal. They were very knowlegable about the layout and location of the fishing spots. The boat was first rate as were all the amenities and rods and gear. The fish weren't biting as much as I had hoped, but that happens sometimes. I would definitely fish with this outfit again. Highly recommended. Richard S
Richard  S.
Richard S. Silver Spring, Maryland
PrimeTime Charters
PrimeTime Charters
Fishing charter in Stevensville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(250 reviews)
Captain Darnell did a fantastic job for our groupโ€ฆgreat first experience fishing in the bay. would highly recommend him!
Shawn  P.
Shawn P. Watertown, MN
Hook Mash Charter Fishing
Hook Mash Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Deale
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(76 reviews)
It was a nice day after all, we waited all week looking at the weather it said rain, then there was no rain in the report anymore and we are on our way, it did drizzle but didnโ€™t stop Captain Stu and Eric from putting us on the fish, we had a Hook Mash blast pulling in rockfish even though we Mash back 5 we Hook 6 nice keepers and it felt good thanks again Hook Mash Charter. Donโ€™t let the rain get in your way.
Theodore  B.
Theodore B. Temple Hills, MD
Reel Attitude
Reel Attitude
Fishing charter in Chesapeake Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(45 reviews)
We booked a Rockfish charter woth Capt Jon and Mate Bobby. And could not ask for a better Capt and Mate. If you'll looking for a great time fishing and want fish. Book with them experiences for newbies and veterans this was the beat boat to be on. We thank you Reel Attitude for the best day fishing.
Paul  P.
Paul P. Saint Charles, MD
Chasinโ€™ Dreams Sportfishing
Chasinโ€™ Dreams Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Baltimore
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Fantastic experience getting to know the Chesapeake Bay via several fishing spots. Captain Dave is superb, very knowledgeable and safe on the water. We explored several fishing locations and caught fish for our yummy dinner that night. We highly rate this excursion for fishing fun.
Sheryl  M.
Sheryl M. Atlanta, GA
Biff Fishing Charters
Biff Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Stevensville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(79 reviews)
Captain Justin and first mate Shawn were great. Clean and well maintained boat.
Jeff  G.
Jeff G. Grasonville, MD
KJ's Outdoor Adventures
KJ's Outdoor Adventures
Fishing charter in King George
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Awesome trip on the Potomac with Captain Kris! Knew where to go to catch the biggins! Caught several big bass and had a phenomenal time. Highly recommended!!
Josh  R.
Josh R. Woodbridge, VA
Fish w/Rock On Charter Fishing!!!
Fish w/Rock On Charter Fishing!!!
Fishing charter in Chesapeake Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(21 reviews)
These guys are awesome! The bite was tough to find, but they worked really hard and got us on some really nice fish! 10 out of 10 would recommend/ come back again!
Seth  W.
Seth W. Boonville, IN
Patent Pending Charters
Patent Pending Charters
Fishing charter in Tracys Landing
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(97 reviews)
It was an incredible trip you that Capitan John led for me and the guys. We had an absolute blast The activities were thrilling, and the overall experience exceeded all of our expectations. Special shout-out to the mate who worked tirelessly to ensure our safety and enjoyment throughout the journey. Their hard work did not go unnoticed and was greatly appreciated.
Oscar  V.
Oscar V. Wilmington, DE
Prowler Fishing Charter
Prowler Fishing Charter
Fishing charter in Norfolk
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(159 reviews)
The 4-hour trip was a ton of fun for a mixed group of somewhat more experienced and brand new fishers alike! Lots of bites and even though it was sadly nothing we could keep, Captain Louis and Maria were flexible and willing to try out new spots/experiences. Maria was good company and very helpful and Captain Louis was extremely flexible with a reschedule due to inclement weather. Highly recommend!
Aaron  L.
Aaron L. Norfolk, Virginia
KJ's Outdoor Adventures
KJ's Outdoor Adventures
Fishing charter in King George
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(10 reviews)
Captain Chris is a real professional and made the trip extremely enjoyable. He advised us of all the details and meeting locations prior to the trip and was prompt. I would recommend his fishing trips to anyone as well as I plan on contacting him again in the future.
Jason  U.
Jason U. Morrisville, VA
AquaMan Sportfishing โ€“ Game On
AquaMan Sportfishing โ€“ Game On
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(131 reviews)
You know what they say, worst day fishing is still better than the best day at the office. While we didnโ€™t catch much, we all still had a great time. The crew was great and it was a much needed time on the water. We will definitely be going again. Some came to fish, others came to get away from it all for a couple hours. Either way, everyone agreed that it was money well spent.
Joshua  B.
Joshua B. Norfolk, Virginia
Hot Pursuit Charter Fishing
Hot Pursuit Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Edgewater
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(21 reviews)
We booked an afternoon excursion with Captain Don, because he was highly recommended, and we had a blast. He and the first mate worked hard to keep us entertained and on the bites. Our whole group will recommend Hot Pursuit to anyone in the future. I know we will be coming back.
Mark  M.
Mark M. Darnestown, MD
Hallock's Grace Charters
Hallock's Grace Charters
Fishing charter in Deale
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(77 reviews)
Hallocks Grace Charters gave us a great experience fishing Rockfish on the the Chesapeake. The boys had a great time and we caught our limit for Rockfish. Captain Mason and Brett were consummate professionals and were amazing helping some of the boys who had never been fishing. I definitely recommend them for any charter fishing!!!
Matthew  P.
Matthew P. Waldorf, MD
Four Reel Charters
Four Reel Charters
Fishing charter in Virginia Beach
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(249 reviews)
Half day trip was perfect for our family. A great time for all ages! Capt Rob and Mason were pros. They put out the lines, located the fish, and let us reel them in. Then we enjoyed the peaceful and beautiful view with some snacks/drink! We had fun!
Dawn  W.
Dawn W. Norfolk, VA
Chasinโ€™ Dreams Sportfishing
Chasinโ€™ Dreams Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Baltimore
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
While we may have only caught one striped bass that was too small to catch, it was still a perfect day! Captain Dave was a pleasure to be around and I am definitely looking forward to bringing my son along on a trip with him! We could tell he is a family friendly guy and kids would have a blast with him :)
Ashley  M.
Ashley M.
Sellfish Charters
Sellfish Charters
Fishing charter in Pasadena
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(12 reviews)
One of the best experiences on the water. You won't regret booking the trip with Sellfish Charter!
Curtis  D.
Curtis D. Hyattsville, Maryland