Get ready to hit the Big Apple's waters for some serious fishing action. This 4-hour charter is tailor-made for anglers who know their stuff and want to tangle with New York's prized Striped Bass. We're not messing around here – as winners of the 2023 Manhattan Cup, Rock Steady Luxury Charters brings the heat when it comes to putting you on the fish. With room for up to 6 fishing buddies, we'll be chasing the bite using run-and-gun tactics, following the birds and blitzes to where the big boys are feeding. Whether you're gunning for a trophy or just want steady action, this trip's got you covered.
Forget about leisurely trolling – we're talking fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping fishing here. Our captain's got a sixth sense for finding the fish, and we'll be zipping around the harbor, keeping our eyes peeled for diving birds and surface commotion. When we spot a blitz, hold onto your hat because we'll be right in the thick of it. You'll be casting lures or live bait into frenzied schools of baitfish, with stripers and blues smashing the surface all around. It's the kind of fishing that'll have your heart racing and your arms aching – in the best way possible.
We're primarily targeting Striped Bass, and let me tell you, the fishing's been on fire lately. These bruisers can top 40 pounds, and they fight like there's no tomorrow. We use a mix of techniques depending on what's working – sometimes it's chunking with fresh bunker, other times we're tossing topwater plugs or working soft plastics. Don't be surprised if we also tangle with some hard-fighting Bluefish or even the occasional Little Tunny (false albacore) when they're running. The beauty of fishing NYC waters is you never know what might show up next.
There's something special about fishing in the shadow of the Big Apple's skyline. One minute you're casting next to the Statue of Liberty, the next you're hooked up with a monster bass off Coney Island. Our flexible start times mean we can hit the water when the bite's hottest – whether that's a pre-dawn topwater blitz or an afternoon chunk bite. And let's be real, nothing beats the bragging rights of landing a trophy striper in one of the busiest harbors in the world. Plus, with all the gear provided, you just need to show up ready to fish hard and have a blast.
Striped Bass: The undisputed kings of Northeast inshore fishing, these silver-sided bruisers are what dreams are made of. In the spring and fall, we get some real giants pushing 50 pounds or more. They're smart, they're strong, and they'll test every bit of your angling skills. There's nothing quite like the sound of a screaming drag when a big striper realizes it's hooked.
Bluefish: Don't let anyone tell you blues are just a consolation prize. These toothy critters are pure muscle and attitude. They'll hit just about anything that moves and fight like their life depends on it. When a school of blues moves in, it's non-stop action that'll leave your arms feeling like jelly. Plus, they're a blast on topwater lures – the strikes are explosive!
Little Tunny: Also known as false albacore or "albies," these speedsters are like mini torpedoes. They're not around all the time, but when they show up, hold on tight. Pound for pound, they might be the hardest fighting fish in these waters. They'll smoke a reel faster than you can say "fish on," and they're absolute suckers for small, flashy lures.
Listen, if you're an experienced angler looking for a real challenge, this is the trip for you. We're not here to hold hands – we're here to put you on fish and give you the shot at the catch of a lifetime. With our track record and local knowledge, you're in for some of the best fishing NYC has to offer. Just remember, spots fill up fast, especially during prime seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Oh, and that deposit? It's non-refundable, but trust me, once you're out there battling a big striper with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop, you'll know it was worth every penny. So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing buddies and let's get after it!
Bluefish are the bad boys of the bay - aggressive, toothy, and always ready for a fight. Most run 3-10 pounds, but monsters over 20 aren't unheard of. You'll find them cruising the shorelines and tidal rivers in summer, with "snapper blues" (juveniles) perfect for kids to catch. These chompers will hit just about anything, making them a sure bet for action. Anglers love 'em for their savage strikes and drag-screaming runs. While not everyone's favorite for the table, fresh bluefish can be delicious when prepared right. To get in on a "bluefish blitz," look for birds working the water - that's often a dead giveaway. And watch those teeth when unhooking - they've given many an angler an unexpected piercing.
Little tunny, also called false albacore, are speed demons that'll test your skills. These compact powerhouses usually weigh 10-12 pounds but can hit 20. You'll find them near the surface in warm, nearshore waters, often around points and sandbars. Late summer through fall is prime time when they chase bait schools. Anglers love 'em for their blistering runs - these fish fight way above their weight class. While not the best eating, they're a blast to catch. Try trolling with feathered jigs or casting light tackle when you spot them busting bait on top. Pro tip: when you hook one, let it run to tire itself out. Fighting too hard risks snapping your line on these speed demons.
Striped bass are the heavyweight champs of our local waters. These bruisers typically run 20-40 pounds but can top 70. Look for them near structures like bridges and rocky shorelines, especially during dawn and dusk. They're here year-round, but fall's the prime time when they fatten up for winter. Stripers put up a helluva fight - be ready for some serious pulling. Their tasty white meat is a bonus if you keep one for the table. To improve your odds, try live-lining bunker or eels. And here's a local secret: when birds are working the surface, that's often a dead giveaway stripers are feeding below. Cast into the frenzy and hold on tight.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 400