Raritan Bay

7 Fishing Charters

Top Raritan Bay Destinations

Top Fishing Charters in Raritan Bay

Fishing in Raritan Bay

Separating New York from New Jersey, the Raritan Bay is the fishing epicenter for one of the US’s biggest urban areas. It’s home to some of the East Coast’s finest creatures, and can also be your starting point for an offshore adventure.

While the fish are around all year, local fishing charters get out on the water at the beginning of March. Target the East Coast’s favorite fish, Striped Bass, along with plenty of delicious Seabass, Tautog, Fluke, Flounder, and Porgy in the shallow waters of the bay. Or, spend a full day offshore going after Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Marlin, and many more big game trophies, as you put your fishing skills and strength to the test.

Hop aboard a charter in Staten Island, Perth Amboy, or Keyport, and you’ll get to test your bottom fishing skills in the shallow waters of the bay itself. If you’re looking for an offshore adventure, then Keyport is your best chance of heading to the deep seas. With trips lasting from four to eight hours, and even longer, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

Wherever you go, you’ll be in safe hands. Charter operators here are professional, experienced captains, who promise a helping hand to anglers of all levels. Come aboard a Raritan Bay fishing adventure and you can try it all!

Rules & Regulations

An extra piece of good news about Raritan Bay fishing charters is that your fishing license is covered. Whether you’re fishing in New Jersey or New York, you won’t have to worry about getting a permit. Your local guide will also make sure you’re on top of the latest bag limits, so you can sit back and enjoy your fishing experience

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Raritan Bay Fishing Seasons

January

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a captain to take you out in January. But if you do find yourself in the Raritan Bay area, you’re just a stone’s throw from the “Big Apple,” so there’s no shortage of things to do.

February

Most captains are still preparing their boats for the upcoming season, but if you do find a hardy soul to take you out to the bay, you’ll have the fishing pretty much all to yourself, as you go after Stripers to keep warm.

March

It may feel like a long time since you were last out on the water, but there’s no looking back now. Get out on the bay and beyond and go after Stripers, Flounder, and many more delicious fish to take home.

April

Striper season really hits its stride come April, with plenty of monster-sized beauties populating the bay. Come and explore on a bottom fishing adventure as you go after plenty of meat to fill the boat.

May

Perth Amboy comes alive with the Waterfront Arts Festival, but that’s no reason to forget about the fish. Bluefish and Seabass join the nearshore party, so why not come aboard and make the most of the bay?

June

After a successful fishing trip, why not discover the rich history of Raritan Bay? The Greeks, Ukrainians, and Puerto Ricans host their cultural festivals in Perth Amboy, so come and indulge in some different parties.

July

You’ll have a dilemma when summer strikes, as the big game monsters start making their way past the East Coast. Go after Tuna and Marlin offshore, or target the same old favorites nearshore.

August

Keyport hosts its annual Snapper contest in August, but there’s much more to the bay than that. Head offshore for that trophy catch or hit the bay and go after Weakfish, Bluefish, Porgy, and Seabass.

September

While the kids may be back in school, there’s no sign of the fishing winding down here. In fact, the annual Perth Amboy fishing derby will let you test your skills against the best, as you go after Summer Fluke.

October

There are still plenty of delicious fish left in the bay, with the last of the Mahi Mahi and Tuna population straggling behind nearshore. Take advantage of the chance to hit the deep waters before it’s too late.

November

Attention shifts back to the bay as the cold weather closes in. Monster Stripers make their way home, along with Tautog, Seabass, and more, so you’ll have plenty to target for a warming meal to take home.

December

The season has come to an end, and you may be wondering what to do with yourself. You should have stocked up the freezer with plenty of meat, while you can focus on ordering new gear for next season.