Top-Rated Inshore Fishing Trip on Long Island

Reel in the Big Ones: Long Island Inshore Fishing

Get ready to hit the rich waters off Long Island with Captain John, a local fishing pro who knows these waters like the back of his hand. This 9-hour private trip is your ticket to some of the best inshore action around. Whether you're looking to tangle with hard-fighting striped bass or want to fill the cooler with tasty bluefish, you're in for a treat. Captain John's boat is perfect for groups of up to three adults or two adults and two kids, making it an ideal day out for friends or family. So grab your hat and sunscreen – it's time to get out there and see what's biting!

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard Captain John's boat, you're not just going fishing – you're tapping into years of local knowledge. We'll cruise out to the hottest inshore spots, places where the fish are known to stack up. Depending on the season and what's running, we might be drifting live bait for stripers, casting lures for bluefish, or jigging for black sea bass. The beauty of inshore fishing is the variety – one minute you could be battling a bruiser striper, the next you're reeling in a frisky false albacore. And don't worry if you're new to this – Captain John's got plenty of tips and tricks up his sleeve to help you land that trophy catch.

Techniques & Gear Rundown

On this trip, we'll use a mix of techniques to put you on fish. We might start the day trolling, dragging lures behind the boat to cover water and find where the fish are holding. Once we locate a school, we'll switch it up to casting or live-lining bait. Captain John's got all the gear you need – top-notch rods and reels, a variety of lures, and fresh bait when needed. We use light to medium tackle for most of our inshore species, which means you'll feel every head shake and run. It's all about matching the right technique to the conditions and the fish we're after, and that's where the captain's experience really shines.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Striped Bass: The crown jewel of Long Island inshore fishing, stripers are the fish that dreams are made of. These powerful, silver-sided bruisers can top 50 pounds, though a good keeper runs 28 to 40 inches. They're known for their strong fights and delicious white meat. Stripers typically show up in the spring and fall, with some of the biggest fish caught during the fall run. When a big striper hits your bait, hold on tight – you're in for a battle!

Bluefish: If you want non-stop action, bluefish are your ticket. These toothy predators are pure muscle and attitude. They travel in schools and when they're biting, it's a frenzy. Blues range from 2 to 20 pounds, with bigger ones called "gators" by local anglers. They're great fighters and make excellent table fare when properly cared for. The best bluefish action typically happens from late spring through fall. When blues are around, be ready for explosive topwater strikes and screaming reels.

Weakfish: Also known as sea trout, weakfish are a prized catch for their delicate flavor and the challenge they present. Despite their name, there's nothing weak about their fight. These beautiful fish, with their spotted sides and yellow fins, typically run 1 to 5 pounds, though larger specimens aren't uncommon. Weakfish are most active in the warmer months, particularly in spring and fall. They're known for their soft mouths, so finesse is key when fighting them.

False Albacore: If you're after pure speed, false albacore (or "albies") are the ticket. These mini tuna lookalikes are pound-for-pound some of the fastest fish in the sea. They typically show up in late summer and fall, chasing bait on the surface. Watching a school of albies blitz on bait is a sight you won't forget. They're catch-and-release only, but the thrill of hooking one on light tackle is worth the trip alone.

Black Sea Bass: For those who like their fish fried, black sea bass are hard to beat. These bottom-dwellers are found around structure and reefs, typically in slightly deeper water than our other inshore species. They're aggressive feeders and strong fighters for their size, typically running 1 to 5 pounds. The meat is white, flaky, and mild – perfect for a fish fry. Sea bass season usually runs from summer into fall, and they're a great target when other species are slow.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the inshore waters of Long Island. Maybe it's the way the sun rises over the Atlantic, painting the sky in pinks and oranges as we head out. Or it could be the thrill of watching your rod bend double as a big striper takes the bait. For many, it's the camaraderie – swapping stories, sharing laughs, and making memories with friends and family. And let's not forget the pride of bringing home a cooler full of fresh fish for dinner. Whatever brings you out, Captain John's trips have a way of hooking you for life. It's not just fishing – it's a slice of Long Island life that keeps folks coming back year after year.

Time to Book Your Spot

So there you have it – a full day of world-class inshore fishing right here on Long Island. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to tangle with some trophy stripers or a family wanting to introduce the kids to the joys of fishing, Captain John's got you covered. With all the gear provided and his years of local knowledge, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a sandwich or two). The fish are out there waiting, and the memories are ready to be made. Don't let this chance slip away – book your trip with MarCeeJay Sport Fishing today and get ready for a day on the water you won't forget. The big one is out there – isn't it time you came and caught it?