Boston Fishing Charters
Boston fishing charters put anglers in prime position for inshore stripers, nearshore blues, and offshore tuna action from Boston Harbor to Stellwagen Bank.
Top Rated Charters in Boston
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Boston, MA Fishing Guide
Boston sits at the heart of one of the most productive fisheries on the East Coast. Anglers launching from the city’s well-equipped ramps at Charlestown, Dorchester, or Winthrop quickly find themselves on prime fishing grounds. Local charters typically offer half-day and full-day trips, focusing primarily on inshore and nearshore fishing, though dedicated offshore charters are also available for anglers targeting big pelagics.
The fishery around Boston is structured into three main zones: the protected inshore waters of Boston Harbor, the open-water structures around the Harbor Islands, and the renowned offshore banks such as Stellwagen and Jeffreys Ledge. Boston’s inshore fishing season kicks off strong in late spring as massive schools of striped bass move into the harbor, aggressively feeding on baitfish near rocky structure, channel edges, and tidal rips. Common techniques include live-lining mackerel or bunker, throwing topwater plugs, and jigging soft plastics near structure.
Summer brings reliable runs of bluefish and exciting nearshore opportunities for fluke and black sea bass around local wrecks and ledges. Run distances remain short, usually under 30 minutes, maximizing fishing time. Meanwhile, dedicated offshore charters targeting giant bluefin tuna, sharks, and cod run longer distances—typically 20 to 30 miles—to reach Stellwagen Bank or Jeffreys Ledge, where bait-rich waters consistently draw trophy-sized gamefish. Heavy tackle trolling, live-bait drifting, and jigging deep structure are the preferred offshore techniques.
As temperatures cool in fall, the harbor sees explosive blitzes of migrating stripers and blues, providing fast-paced action on topwaters and swim baits. Cod fishing picks up offshore, adding another dimension to Boston’s charter offerings, before winter’s colder months shift most fishing activity toward harbor holdovers and deep-water haddock.
Fishing Seasons in Boston
Spring
Spring fishing in Boston marks the arrival of migrating striped bass, providing explosive action along harbor islands and estuary mouths. Anglers target stripers with live bait, topwater plugs, and soft plastics near rocky outcroppings and channel edges. Boston’s flounder bite also peaks during spring, drawing anglers to sandy bottoms near Deer Island Flats and Spectacle Island. Offshore trips begin venturing out to Stellwagen Bank as early-season cod and haddock schools become increasingly active, rewarding anglers willing to make longer runs with heavy jigging and bait-fishing opportunities.
Summer
Summer brings consistent bluefish action to Boston’s nearshore waters, with aggressive schools chasing baitfish near structure and tidal rips. Inshore charters continue focusing on striped bass, often live-lining bunker or mackerel around Deer Island and Hull Gut. Offshore, summer is prime season for giant bluefin tuna, sharks, and deep-water bottom species. Trips regularly run to Stellwagen Bank, where trolling large squid rigs, drifting live bait, or deep jigging can yield trophy-sized catches. Fluke and black sea bass also hold near nearshore reefs, providing great table fare.
Fall
Fall fishing around Boston offers some of the year’s most thrilling moments, as massive schools of migrating stripers and blues blitz baitfish near shorelines. Anglers throw plugs, metals, and swim baits into feeding frenzies around the Harbor Islands and beaches. Offshore, fall sees increased activity from cod and pollock on Stellwagen Bank, where vertical jigging and bait rigs produce reliable catches. Fall is also when giant bluefin tuna feed aggressively before winter, making it an ideal time for trophy hunters targeting these powerful pelagics.
Winter
Winter fishing around Boston shifts to hardy species and sheltered locations. Haddock and cod fishing dominate offshore trips, with boats traveling to deep-water banks for steady bottom fishing action using clam bait and heavy jigs. In the harbor, dedicated anglers target holdover striped bass in deeper channels and around warm-water discharges. Winter fishing requires patience and specialized gear, but it can be rewarding for anglers prepared for cold conditions, shorter runs, and heavier tackle.
Gamefish in Boston
- Striped Bass – 10–40 lbs Found April–November in Boston Harbor and around harbor islands. Typically caught on live bait (mackerel, bunker), topwater plugs, and soft plastics near rocky structure.
- Bluefish – 5–15 lbs Caught June–October nearshore around tidal rips and feeding schools. Commonly targeted with topwaters, metal spoons, and chunk bait.
- Bluefin Tuna – 50–500 lbs Peak season June–November offshore at Stellwagen Bank. Targeted with live mackerel, squid rigs, and deep jigs, often requiring heavy trolling and specialized gear.
- Black Sea Bass – 1–5 lbs May–September around nearshore wrecks, ledges, and reefs. Caught using squid, clam bait, or small jigs.
- Fluke (Summer Flounder) – 2–8 lbs Available June–September on sandy bottoms and nearshore drop-offs. Targeted with squid strips, bucktail jigs, and drift fishing techniques.
- Cod – 5–30 lbs Found year-round offshore at Stellwagen Bank and Jeffreys Ledge, primarily caught jigging deep structure or using clam baits. CTA
Boston Fishing FAQs
What type of fishing trips do Boston charters offer?
Boston fishing charters typically offer half-day, full-day, and specialty trips, covering inshore fishing in Boston Harbor and offshore trips to Stellwagen Bank.
Do I need a fishing license in Boston?
No, Massachusetts charters provide a blanket license covering all anglers onboard, so you don’t need to purchase an individual fishing license.
Where do Boston fishing charters usually launch from?
Most charters launch from ramps at Charlestown, Dorchester, or Winthrop, giving quick access to harbor and offshore fishing grounds
What's the best time for striped bass fishing around Boston?
Boston’s striped bass fishing peaks from late May through October, with June and September offering particularly explosive fishing.
Can I catch tuna near Boston?
Yes, Boston offers excellent offshore fishing for giant bluefin tuna from Stellwagen Bank, typically from June through November.
Is deep sea fishing available from Boston?
Absolutely. Boston deep sea charters regularly head offshore to Stellwagen Bank and Jeffreys Ledge targeting cod, tuna, sharks, and haddock.
What gear do I need to bring on a Boston fishing charter?
Most Boston charter captains provide rods, reels, bait, and tackle. You typically only need weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, snacks, and drinks.
Can beginners fish on Boston charters?
Yes, Boston fishing guides welcome all skill levels and are happy to teach beginners how to handle gear and catch local fish.
What species bite in Boston Harbor during winter?
Boston Harbor winter fishing mainly targets holdover striped bass in deeper channels and warm-water discharge areas, along with haddock offshore.
