Ready to wet a line in one of America's most historic harbors? Our 4-hour Boston fishing charter is perfect for anglers looking to squeeze in some quality fishing without dedicating a full day. Whether you're a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor hoping to add some excitement to your trip, Captain Vinny's got you covered. We'll cruise the harbor, hit the hotspots, and do our best to put you on the fish – all while soaking in views of the city skyline.
Once you step aboard our well-equipped charter boat, we'll zip out to where the fish are biting. The beauty of Boston Harbor is its variety – one day we might be drifting for flounder, the next we could be chasing schools of stripers along the shoreline. Captain Vinny keeps a close eye on reports and conditions, so we're always targeting what's running hot. With a max of 4 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and tips to improve your technique. Don't sweat it if you're new to fishing – we welcome anglers of all skill levels and provide all the gear you'll need. Just remember to dress for the weather (layers are your friend out here) and bring some shades to cut the glare off the water.
We mix it up depending on what's biting, but you can count on trying a few different approaches during your trip. For stripers, we might troll tube-and-worm rigs along channel edges or cast topwater lures near structure. When the bluefish are in, it's hard to beat the excitement of watching them smash poppers on the surface. If we're after flounder, we'll likely drift with bait near sandy bottom areas. Some of our go-to spots include the mouth of the Charles River, the rocks around Deer Island, and the fertile waters near Hull and Quincy. Captain Vinny's always got a few secret spots up his sleeve too – the kind of honey holes that only come from years on these waters.
Striped Bass: The undisputed kings of Boston Harbor, stripers are what most anglers dream about. These powerful fish can range from schoolies in the 20-inch class up to trophy cows pushing 50 pounds or more. They start showing up in May and stick around into the fall, with peak action usually in June and July. Stripers put up an awesome fight and make for some mighty fine eating if you decide to keep one for the grill.
Bluefish: When the blues are in town, hold onto your rod! These toothy terrors are pure muscle and attitude. They typically show up in Boston Harbor by early summer and can stick around into September. While they average 3-5 pounds, we occasionally tangle with gator blues in the 10-15 pound range. Bluefish aren't known for subtle takes – they absolutely crush lures and bait with reckless abandon. If you're looking for non-stop action and bent rods, pray for a bluefish blitz.
Flounder: While not as glamorous as their larger cousins, flounder (also called fluke) are a staple of Boston Harbor fishing. These odd-looking flatfish might not win any beauty contests, but they're a blast to catch and absolutely delicious on the dinner table. We target them primarily in spring and early summer using light tackle and bait. It's a great species for beginners or anyone who wants to bring home some fresh fillets.
There's something special about fishing Boston Harbor. Maybe it's the way the skyline looms in the background as you're reeling in a striped bass. Or how you can go from battling bluefish to grabbing a world-famous bowl of clam chowder in the span of an hour. Our 4-hour trips are perfect for fitting some fishing into a busy schedule, and with all gear provided, it couldn't be easier. Captain Vinny's wealth of local knowledge means you're not just fishing – you're getting an insider's tour of one of America's most storied waterways. Plus, with your license covered, all you need to focus on is having a good time and hopefully landing the big one.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or someone who's never held a fishing rod, our Boston Harbor 4-hour charter is the perfect way to experience the thrills of saltwater fishing. With the convenience of departing right from the city, expert guidance from Captain Vinny, and the chance to tangle with some hard-fighting fish, it's an adventure you won't soon forget. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your trip. Grab three friends or family members and get ready for a wicked good time on the water. Book your Boston fishing charter today and start dreaming of bent rods and screaming reels!
Bluefish are summer visitors to Boston Harbor, showing up mid-June and sticking around through October. These aggressive feeders usually run 3-10 pounds but can reach up to 20. You'll find them in open water, near rocky areas, or beaches - anywhere there's bait fish. Bluefish are known for their fierce fights and feeding frenzies called "blitzes," where they churn up the water going after schools of smaller fish. That makes for some exciting topwater action. They've got a strong flavor that some folks love, others not so much, but they're definitely fun to catch. Late summer's a great time to target the smaller "snappers" in sandy areas - perfect for getting kids hooked on fishing. Pro tip: use steel leaders, these toothy critters will slice through regular line in no time. When the bluefish are running, it's non-stop action that'll keep your rod bent all day.
Striped bass, or "stripers," are a favorite target in Boston Harbor. These powerful fish typically range from 20-40 pounds but can grow over 70 pounds. Look for them around structures like reefs, sandbars, and drop-offs, especially in moving water near shores. Dawn and dusk are prime times when stripers feed near the surface in cooler water. They're strong fighters but not particularly fast, making them fun and manageable for most anglers. Spring through fall is peak season as they migrate along the coast. Stripers are prized for their sweet, meaty fillets too. For the best chance at hooking one, try using live bait like herring or eels - stripers can be picky eaters. A local trick: cast your line near bridge pilings or rocky points where stripers like to ambush prey. With some patience and the right spot, you've got a good shot at landing one of these iconic Boston fish.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 42
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300