Solomons Island Fishing Charters
Solomons Island fishing charters put anglers right in the sweet spot for Chesapeake Bay’s legendary inshore action, nearshore hotspots, and deep-water opportunities for trophy rockfish and more.
Top Rated Charters in Solomons Island
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Solomons Island, MD Fishing Guide
Solomons Island, MD is perfectly positioned on the western shore of Chesapeake Bay, offering anglers an ideal mix of inshore and nearshore fishing opportunities. Local fishing charters run everything from half-day trips in sheltered waters to full-day excursions venturing into deeper channels and structure-rich reefs. Most captains launch from the convenient ramps at Solomons Public Boat Ramp or nearby marinas, minimizing run times and maximizing fishing time.
The fishery here is structured around productive points, channels, and oyster reefs. Inshore charters frequently focus on casting and trolling along shallower points and structure within the Patuxent River and nearby creeks, targeting striped bass (rockfish), bluefish, and white perch. Trips venturing slightly offshore into the main channel of Chesapeake Bay regularly find trophy-sized stripers holding tight to reefs, drop-offs, and underwater ledges. Typical run distances are short—often less than 30 minutes—giving anglers more time to focus on fishing.
Seasonal bite patterns play a big role in Solomons Island fishing. Spring is renowned for its incredible striper run as large fish migrate into the Chesapeake to spawn. Summer months see steady mixed-bag action including bluefish, flounder, Spanish mackerel, and croaker. Fall is another top season for trophy rockfish as they gorge before migrating south, while winter offers hardy anglers excellent opportunities for jumbo striped bass around deeper structure and channels.
Popular local techniques include trolling bucktails and umbrella rigs, live-lining spot or perch, and jigging soft plastics over reefs and channel edges. Whether it’s your first charter or you’re chasing a personal best, Solomons Island gives you plenty of opportunities to land memorable fish.
Fishing Seasons in Solomons Island
Spring
Spring fishing in Solomons Island kicks off with the highly anticipated arrival of trophy rockfish, as large striped bass flood into the Chesapeake Bay for their annual spawn. Anglers focus heavily on trolling umbrella rigs and parachutes to land these migrating giants. April and May are prime months for big stripers, and it’s common to see fish over 40 inches. White perch and croaker start becoming active in shallow waters, providing excellent action for families and kids. Bait fishing with bloodworms or small jigs around shoreline structures and creeks delivers fast-paced, easy fun.
Summer
Summertime brings diverse fishing opportunities to Solomons Island. Inshore charters primarily target a lively mix of bluefish, Spanish mackerel, croaker, and spot, often within sight of shore. Light tackle trolling with spoons and bucktails dominates, while bottom fishing with squid and bloodworms guarantees steady action. Early mornings and late afternoons produce the best bite, with rockfish still a reliable target in deeper, cooler waters. Flounder fishing also peaks mid-summer, especially around structure and sandy channel edges, using live minnows or strip baits bounced on bottom rigs.
Fall
Fall fishing around Solomons Island sees another spike in trophy rockfish action as these fish return to feed heavily before migrating south. September through November are excellent months for targeting large stripers by trolling and jigging over reefs and ledges. As waters cool, bluefish and Spanish mackerel taper off, but white perch and speckled trout fishing remains strong. Anglers switch to jigging soft plastics and metal spoons, particularly around shallow oyster reefs, grass beds, and river mouths. The fall weather is comfortable, and the fish are hungry.
Winter
Winter fishing out of Solomons Island means chasing jumbo rockfish holding in deeper channels and structures. Hardy anglers who brave cooler temperatures can expect rewarding days trolling large parachute rigs, umbrella rigs, and heavy bucktails along channel edges and ledges in 30–60 feet of water. Fish sizes regularly surpass 40 inches during this time, providing the opportunity to land true trophy catches. Additionally, white perch can still be caught around deeper holes and creek mouths on bait and jigs, giving anglers steady winter action.
Gamefish in Solomons Islands
- Striped Bass (Rockfish) – 18 to 50+ inches Targeted year-round, peak seasons in spring and fall. Trolled umbrella rigs, bucktails, live-lined spot, and jigging over reefs and ledges in 20–60 ft depths.
- Bluefish – 12 to 25 inches Caught primarily in summer and early fall. Trolling spoons, casting metal jigs, and fishing cut bait near surface schools and channel edges.
- Spanish Mackerel – 14 to 26 inches Best targeted in late summer into early fall. Fast trolling spoons, jigs, or small plugs in open bay waters.
- Flounder – 14 to 24 inches Peaks mid-summer around channel edges and sandy bottoms. Drift live minnows or strip baits on flounder rigs close to the bottom.
- White Perch – 6 to 12 inches Caught year-round around structure, creeks, and river mouths. Jigs, small spoons, spinners, and bait rigs with bloodworms or grass shrimp.
- Speckled Trout – 12 to 26 inches Strongest bite in late summer and fall around shallow flats and grass beds. Soft plastics, jigs, and topwater plugs excel.
- Croaker – 8 to 15 inches Summertime favorite near bottom structure and channel edges. Squid, bloodworms, or shrimp fished on bottom rigs are most effective.
Solomons Island Fishing FAQs
What types of fishing charters are available around Solomons Island?
Charters range from half-day inshore trips to full-day offshore excursions targeting trophy striped bass and mixed species.
Do I need a fishing license for a charter in Solomons Island?
No, charter boats in Solomons Island cover the license for all guests onboard.
What’s the best time for trophy rockfish in Solomons Island?
Spring (April–May) and fall (October–November) offer the best chances for trophy rockfish.
Are Solomons Island fishing charters kid-friendly?
Yes, many local charters specialize in family-friendly trips, targeting white perch and croaker for consistent action.
Where do Solomons Island fishing charters usually launch from?
Most charters launch from Solomons Public Boat Ramp or nearby marinas like Calvert Marina.
How far do you typically run on fishing trips from Solomons Island?
Runs are usually short, often less than 30 minutes, maximizing fishing time.
Can we fish during winter months in Solomons Island?
Yes, winter offers excellent trophy striped bass fishing for those willing to brave cooler weather.
What species bite best in summer near Solomons Island?
Summer charters focus on bluefish, Spanish mackerel, croaker, flounder, and striped bass.
Is gear provided on Solomons Island fishing charters?
Yes, charter boats provide all necessary rods, reels, tackle, and bait.
