Escape the city and come fishing in Jamaica Bay. In the shadows of the New York skyline, you’ll find solace as you battle it out with monster fish in productive waters. Straddling Queens and Brooklyn’s coastline, Jamaica Bay spans over 10,000 acres, offering flats fishing like no other. Come to this secluded oasis, and see what all the fuss is about!
Inshore Fishing
It’s hard to believe that such incredible nature lives so close to one of the world’s busiest urban areas. The murky waters of Jamaica Bay provide incredible fishing year-round, with its status as a nature reserve protecting it from any disturbance.
Bottom or fly fish these productive waters and you’re in for a serious treat. Trophy-sized Rockfish, delicious Seabass, Tautog, and Triggerfish, and beautiful Bluefish and Weakfish call these waters home, giving you plenty to target during your time aboard.
Spend anywhere from four hours to a full day on the water, targeting whatever species you’d like. Beginners and experts alike can revel in these productive fishing grounds, as the calm waters will let you get to grips with a rod and reel, or get you filling the fridge.
Offshore Fishing
Due to the bay’s proximity to the Atlantic, plenty of fishing charters also offer trips beyond to the deep waters. Offshore fishing out of Jamaica Bay takes place aboard purpose-built downeast boats that cut through the choppy offshore waters, giving you a smooth ride.
Despite that, you’ll want to have some experience with a rod and reel, and have your sea legs ready, as fishing here is not for the faint-hearted. Not only will you spend at least a full day on the water, you’ll also be going up against some of the ocean’s most vicious creatures.
Troll the open waters anywhere from 30 to 100 miles offshore, and attract the bite of Yellowfin and Bluefin Tuna, and Mako and Thresher Sharks, each of whom promises an incredible battle.
How to Prepare
Depending on where you go, your fishing experience may be completely different. On the bay, you could fish in a group as small as three people aboard a skiff or you can join a shared party boat with space for over 50 anglers. Choose what suits you best, and get your fish on!
No matter which charter you choose, you’ll be given some drinks and snacks to stay refreshed, but bring your own lunch on longer trips. If you want to go fly fishing, you should also let your captain know beforehand, so that they can prepare the gear for you.
Other than that, you’re good to go. Just a 30-minute cab ride from downtown Manhattan, a different world exists. Come any time of the year and escape the city with a Jamaica Bay fishing trip!