Port Chester Fishing Charters
Port Chester fishing charters give anglers quick access to Long Island Sound’s inshore waters, tidal flats, and rocky points for striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and black sea bass.
Top Rated Charters in Port Chester
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Port Chester, NY Fishing Guide
Port Chester, NY, sits right on the Byram River at the edge of Long Island Sound, making it a prime departure point for inshore and nearshore charters. Captains here typically run half-day and full-day trips, with some offering specialized night fishing for striped bass during peak runs. The fishery is built around a mix of tidal flats, rocky shorelines, channels, and deeper nearshore structure where bait tends to gather. Running distances can be short—often less than 15 minutes to get lines in the water—but some captains will push farther east toward the Connecticut side or west toward New Rochelle and the Bronx for specific bites.
The main launch point is along the Port Chester waterfront and nearby marinas, with several ramps and docks tucked along the river. In spring and fall, striped bass migrate through the Sound, staging along points, rips, and drop-offs, while summer brings steady action for fluke and sea bass over reefs and sandy bottom. Winter anglers focus on deeper holes and wrecks for cod and ling when conditions allow.
Common techniques include light-tackle casting, trolling tube-and-worm rigs for bass, vertical jigging over structure, and drifting squid or spearing for fluke. Fly fishing can be excellent in early summer when sand eels and peanut bunker draw surface-feeding stripers close to shore. If conditions are choppy in the Sound, nearby waters like Greenwich Cove or the sheltered channels west of City Island can provide calmer options without sacrificing fishing quality. Port Chester fishing stays consistent thanks to the variety of habitats within easy reach, and captains know exactly how to time tides and currents for each target species.
Fishing Seasons in Port Chester
Spring (March–May)
As water temperatures rise, striped bass move into the Sound, staging near tidal rips and points close to Port Chester. This season often starts with trolling deep-diving plugs or drifting live eels during slower currents. Schoolie bass are common early, with bigger fish arriving by late May. Flounder fishing can also be good in sandy coves. Charter trips lean toward half-days focused on prime tide windows. The water stays cool, so layers are recommended, and early morning bites tend to be best before boat traffic increases.
Summer (June–August)
Summer offers variety—fluke dominate the shallow sandy stretches, while sea bass and porgies hold over reefs and wrecks. Bluefish schools can crash bait pods anywhere from the harbor mouth to mid-Sound. Drifting squid strips for fluke is a go-to, while jigs tipped with clam or sandworm work well for porgies. Longer full-day trips may run east toward Norwalk Islands for mixed-bag action. Warm weather makes for comfortable fishing, though afternoon winds can kick up chop, so morning runs are often preferred.
Fall (September–November)
Fall is prime time for trophy striped bass, with fish pushing through on their southbound migration. Topwater plugs and live bunker become key tools, especially around dawn. Bluefish remain in the mix, and black sea bass bite well over deeper reefs. Many charters offer flexible start times to match tide swings. Cooling water concentrates fish around structure, and bird activity often gives away surface feeds. Anglers can also find good tog (blackfish) action on rocky bottom starting in October.
Winter (December–February)
Fishing slows, but dedicated anglers still find action on cod, ling, and occasional pollock on offshore wrecks. Trips are longer and weather-dependent, with fewer boats running, but the bite can be worth it for those willing to bundle up. Nearshore waters quiet down, though some anglers still try for holdover striped bass in sheltered coves. Tactics this time of year center on bottom rigs with clam or squid, and calm weather windows are crucial for safe runs.
Gamefish in Port Chester
- Striped Bass – 20–40+ lbs. Caught spring and fall around rips, rocky points, and bunker schools using live bait or plugs.
- Bluefish – 5–15 lbs. Summer into fall near bait pods, taken on jigs, plugs, or trolling spoons.
- Fluke – 2–8 lbs. Summer drift fishing sandy bottoms with squid or spearing.
- Black Sea Bass – 1–5 lbs. Summer and fall over reefs and wrecks on jigs or baited rigs.
- Porgy (Scup) – 1–3 lbs. Warm months over rocky bottom using clams or sandworms.
- Blackfish (Tautog) – 3–8 lbs. Fall on rocky structure with green crabs or Asian crabs.
- Cod – 5–20 lbs. Winter on offshore wrecks using baited rigs.
Port Chester Fishing FAQs
Where do charters in Port Chester usually depart from?
Most leave from marinas along the Byram River, with quick access to Long Island Sound through the harbor mouth.
How long are typical fishing trips?
Half-day trips (4–5 hours) are common for inshore species, while full-day charters (8 hours) allow for running farther into the Sound or targeting multiple species.
What gear is provided by Port Chester fishing charters?
Captains typically supply rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Fly anglers may bring their own gear if preferred.
Do I need a fishing license in Port Chester?
No license is required for saltwater fishing in New York when aboard a licensed charter, though registration in the free NY Recreational Marine Fishing Registry is recommended.
When is the best time to fish here?
Spring and fall are best for striped bass, while summer offers steady actioSpring and fall are best for striped bass, while summer offers steady action for fluke, sea bass, and porgies. Winter is specialized for cod tripsn for fluke, sea bass, and porgies. Winter is specialized for cod trips
What techniques are most common?
Light-tackle casting, trolling, drifting bait, and vertical jigging are all widely used depending on target species and season.
Can charters handle large groups?
Most boats can take 4–6 anglers, with some party boats in the area accommodating larger groups.
Are night fishing trips available?
Yes, especially in late spring and early fall for striped bass when tides and moon phases align.
What if the weather is bad?
Captains monitor forecasts closely and may reschedule for safety. Inshore waters like sheltered coves can sometimes provide an alternative when the Sound is rough.