NYC Fish Class

Premium Boating Classes on Long Island Waters

Inshore Fun

World-Class Inshore Fishing on Long Island

Island Reels

Top-Rated Inshore Fishing Trip on Long Island

Boat Buddy

Master Boating Skills on Long Island Waters

Big Fish Hunt

Expert-Guided Offshore Fishing in Long Island, NY

Hamptons Splash

Luxury Hamptons Cruise | MarCeeJay Sport Fishing

Yellowfin Tuna

Tuna and Mahi Are On the Move Offshore

Offshore fishing out of Long Island, NY is delivering big-time action this week, with solid reports of yellowfin tuna, bigeye, and mahi-mahi coming from the canyons and mid-shore grounds. Boats running to the Hudson, Toms, and Atlantis Canyons are seeing consistent bites on troll spreads with spreader bars, rigged ballyhoo, and topwater plugs at first light. Chunking at night is also producing yellowfin and the occasional bigeye for boats willing to stay overnight.

Closer to shore, the 30–60 mile range is seeing an uptick in mahi activity around lobster pots, weed lines, and temperature breaks. Anglers tossing small jigs and cut bait are finding great success, especially when the water is clean and holding bait. Bluefin tuna have also been spotted near the Coimbra wreck and Chicken Canyon, with some boats hooking up on the troll or when jigging near bait balls.

Now’s the time to gear up and head offshore while conditions are prime and the pelagics are feeding aggressively. With warm water pushing north and plenty of life out deep, Long Island offshore fishing is wide open—perfect for anglers looking to battle hard-fighting gamefish and bring home a cooler full of meat.

Sea Bass

Bass Fishing 2023!

The MarCeeJay Fishing Report has good news for those who love to fish for bass. According to the latest report, Elwood NY is expected to be a prime location for bass fishing in 2023. This prediction is based on various factors such as water temperature, and oxygen levels availability.


Long Island Fishing Report

Fishing on Long Island is currently producing some great catches for anglers.  Tuna fishing is also starting to pick up. We caught this 40-lb Tuna last time. It's the perfect time to hit the water. Join us today!

Captain John N. Raguso, the owner/operator of MarCeeJay Sport Fishing, is a nationally known outdoor writer and charter fishing captain with over four decades of saltwater big game sport fishing experience. Capt. John is headmaster at the Long Island Fishing School, where he shares his wealth of experience with fellow enthusiasts. He will guide you and your crew on a fishing trip that you will fondly remember! Drawing from a wealth of knowledge that includes back bay, open bay, inlet, beach, wreck, reef, near offshore and blue water canyon fishing creates numerous opportunities for your family and friends to experience the trip of a lifetime. To get to these prime locations, your group will embark aboard Captain John's 23' EdgeWater, named "MarCeeJay", freshly restored in 2020 and powered by a 250 HP Mercury engine. Amenities for guests to enjoy include a multimedia music system, ice-box, and private toilet for convenience on the water. On board GPS, downriggers, and a fish finder system ensure your fishing adventure will be safe and productive. Whether your are a first-timer or a seasoned pro, Capt. John will relate to your knowledge level and skill set to entertain you and your crew in a true teaching environment where you are not just along for the ride, but will participate in all aspects of the action! If you have your own boat and want to learn how to set it up and fish on it, Capt. John literally "wrote the books" on these disciplines over the past four decades and you would be hard-pressed to find someone as knowledgeable and informative to guide you on a successful inshore or offshore trip. This knowledge translates to extraordinary success rates for catching target sportfish including, black sea bass, striped bass, tuna, marlin, mahi, and bluefish. Trust your next fishing charter with a local pro, and secure your spot with MarCeeJay Sport Fishing today!

EPSG:4269

A lone angler reels in a 44-inch fish in Elwood

Caught a 16-inch sea bass while fishing in Elwood

A pair of anglers enjoying a fishing cruise in the town of Elwood

Lone angler in New York, fishing on cruises and fishing

Three anglers fishing in New York with one fish

Swordfish caught on cruises and fishing trip in NY

Yellowfin tuna caught during cruises and fishing trip in NY

Link Up for an Unforgettable Day of Light Tackle Coastal Fishing 

Captain John N. Raguso has spent over 40 years mastering the waters of Long Island’s South Shore, Long Island Sound, and the offshore grounds near Montauk. With a deep understanding of these fishing hotspots, he provides anglers with expert guidance for a rewarding day on the water. Specializing in light tackle fishing, he navigates a variety of environments, from calm bays and inlets to offshore waters, helping guests target some of the region’s most sought-after species. His passion for fishing and years of experience ensure every trip is both productive and enjoyable. MarCeeJay Sport Fishing offers customized charters designed to match the skill level and goals of each guest. Whether you’re chasing striped bass in the bay, battling bluefin tuna offshore, or seeking a mixed bag of black sea bass, bluefish, and mahi, Captain John tailors each trip for the best possible experience. Based in Montauk, the charter provides easy access to prime fishing locations, with convenient meeting points like the East Creek Boat Launch in Riverhead, NY. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, MarCeeJay Sport Fishing delivers a top-tier experience focused on quality, expertise, and customer satisfaction.

Kelsey and Lawrence catch a limit of big sea bass! 

Captain John N. Raguso, owner and operator of MarCeeJay Sport Fishing, brings over 40 years of experience in saltwater big game sport fishing. A nationally recognized outdoor writer and respected charter captain, he has dedicated his career to sharing his extensive knowledge of inshore and offshore fishing techniques. As the headmaster of the Long Island Fishing School, Captain John is passionate about teaching anglers of all skill levels, ensuring each guest leaves with new insights and lasting memories from their time on the water. With expertise spanning back bays, inlets, wrecks, reefs, and blue water canyons, Captain John knows where to find the fish in every season. His in-depth understanding of Montauk’s fishing hotspots gives guests the best chance at landing sought-after species like striped bass, black sea bass, fluke, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Whether you’re an experienced angler looking for a serious sport fishing challenge or a beginner eager to learn, Captain John creates a hands-on experience where every guest is part of the action. Beyond charter trips, Captain John also offers private instruction for boat owners looking to master their own vessel. Having authored numerous fishing and boating guides, his expertise is unmatched when it comes to navigating Montauk’s waters, setting up fishing gear, and maximizing success on both inshore and offshore trips. His dedication to education and customer satisfaction has earned him a strong reputation as one of Long Island’s top fishing guides. About The BoatGuests will fish aboard the 23’ EdgeWater "MarCeeJay", a fully restored center console vessel equipped for both comfort and performance. Powered by a 250 HP Mercury engine, this boat offers a smooth and stable ride to prime fishing grounds. Onboard features include a GPS navigation system, fish finder, downriggers, and all the necessary tackle for a productive day on the water. Anglers can also enjoy a multimedia sound system, ice box for refreshments, and a private toilet for added convenience. Whether heading out for a quick inshore trip or an offshore excursion, the MarCeeJay is built for an unforgettable fishing experience.

Check out the map to see where we fish! The red zone marks our top fishing spots, while the pins show where we meet guests. Fishing areas vary by season and conditions!

Meet Captain John Raguso – Your Expert Montauk Fishing Guide

Frequently Asked Questions MarCeeJay Sport Fishing Pricing and Packages 1. How much does a fishing charter with MarCeeJay Sport Fishing cost?MarCeeJay Sport Fishing offers customized charter trips, with pricing based on trip length, target species, and group size. Contact us for current rates and availability! 2. What’s included in the price of a fishing charter?Our fishing charter prices cover the boat, fuel, expert guidance from Captain John, top-quality fishing gear, and bait. Just bring your fishing license, snacks, and drinks! 3. Do I need to pay a deposit to book a fishing trip?Yes, a deposit is required to secure your fishing date. This helps us prepare for your trip and ensures availability. Contact us for specific deposit details. 4. Are there additional costs beyond the charter price?Our pricing includes everything you need for a great fishing trip. Optional expenses may include gratuities for the captain and mate, food, and special equipment requests. 5. Can I split the cost of the fishing charter with a group?Absolutely! Our charters accommodate small groups, making it easy to split costs among friends or family for an affordable and exciting day on the water. 6. Do prices vary by season or type of fishing trip?Yes, charter prices can vary based on the season, trip length, and target species. Peak times like summer and prime tuna season may have higher demand and pricing. 7. How long are the fishing trips, and how does that affect pricing?We offer half-day, full-day, and extended offshore trips. Longer trips typically cost more but give you a better chance at landing trophy fish. Contact us for trip options! 8. Are there discounts for booking multiple trips?We appreciate our returning anglers! Contact us to learn about special rates for repeat customers or multiple bookings. 9. What is the cancellation policy for MarCeeJay Sport Fishing?If you need to cancel or reschedule, let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation policies vary, so check with us for specific terms on deposits and refunds.

Balance:&nbsp;The remaining balance is due on the trip date as either Credit or Cash.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Guide Cancellation:&nbsp;In the unlikely event of guide cancellation due tocalendar conflicts, weather, mechanical issues, or health, you will receive anemail notification as well as a refund of your deposit. Expect your refund toprocess to your original payment method in 7-10 business days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Guest Cancellation:&nbsp;If you need to request a cancellation, reach outdirectly to your guide at (707) 778 - 0282. To receive a refund of yourdeposit, you must do so 14 days before your trip. We always encouragerescheduling over canceling.

TIPPING: Tips to your guide are greatly appreciated for your quality trip. 20% is standard for the outdoor serviceindustry.&nbsp;We hope you enjoy your trip and thank you for booking with us!&nbsp;

Trip Information

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Join Captain John for a 5-hour or 12-hour private trip exploring the inshore waters of Long Island. Target popular species including striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, false albacore, and black sea bass in productive local fishing grounds. This trip is designed for all skill levels, with hands-on guidance to help you make the most of your time on the water. The charter accommodates up to three adults or a family-friendly mix of two adults and two children, making it a versatile option for groups. All essential gear and tackle are provided, so you can focus on fishing while your captain takes care of the rest.

Black Sea Bass

Bluefish

Striped Bass

MarCeeJay

5 Hours

12 Hours

Half Day or Full Day Guided Fishing Trip in Long Island, NY - Bluefish, Striped Bass, and More

Spend 9 hours fishing the inshore waters of Long Island with Captain John, targeting striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, false albacore, and black sea bass. This private trip accommodates up to three adults, or two adults and two children, making it a great option for families or small groups. Anglers of all skill levels are welcome, with guidance provided throughout the day to help maximize success. All essential gear and tackle are included, so you can focus on fishing while your captain handles the details. Book now to enjoy a full day on the water with an experienced guide who knows the best spots to fish.

Spotted Weakfish

9 Hours

Full Day Guided Fishing Trip in Long Island, NY  - Bluefish, Striped Bass, and More

Spend a full day offshore with Captain John Raguso on a private charter from Long Island, designed for anglers looking to target marlin, bluefin tuna, mahi mahi, and other sought-after pelagic species. This 9-hour trip accommodates up to three adults or a family-friendly group of two adults and two children. Anglers of all experience levels are welcome, with expert guidance provided to help maximize opportunities for success. All required gear and tackle are included, giving you everything needed for a productive day at sea while your captain handles navigation and finding the best fishing grounds.

Bluefin Tuna

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

White Marlin

6 Hours

Half Day or Full Day Guided Fishing Trip in Long Island, NY - Tuna, Marlin, and More

Enjoy a 3-hour private cruise through the Hamptons with Captain John at the helm of his 23' Edgewater. This experience focuses on sightseeing and relaxation, offering options to explore local beaches, cruise along the shoreline, or watch the sun set over the water. Flexible start times between 6 AM and 4 PM allow you to schedule your outing to fit your day. With no fishing required, this trip is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a calm and memorable time on the water. Captain John provides a safe, comfortable vessel so you can sit back and enjoy the coastal views.

3 Hours

Quick Scenic Cruise in The Hamptons, NY

Build boating skills with Captain John Raguso during a private, hands-on training session on Long Island. At $75 per hour with a three-hour minimum, this course is designed for boaters of all experience levels who want to improve navigation, docking, and general handling. Instruction is tailored to your goals, ensuring practical guidance you can apply immediately on the water. There are no travel charges anywhere on Long Island, making it a convenient option for local boaters. With expert coaching from a Master Captain, you’ll gain confidence and learn safe, effective boating techniques in real-world conditions.

4 Hours

Half Day Boating Lessons in Long Island, NY

Gain the skills you need to operate your fishing boat safely and confidently with private classes offered in Long Island and New York City. These inshore sessions focus on boat mechanics, navigation, equipment features, and understanding local waterways. Instruction is tailored to your level of experience, making it suitable for both beginners and those looking to refine existing skills. If you prefer, your captain can also take the helm, giving you a chance to relax while still enjoying time on the water. All training is hands-on and designed to ensure you leave with practical knowledge for future trips.

Meet your Captain John Raguso

Articles by John Raguso

Tuna and Mahi Are On the Move Offshore

Bass Fishing 2023!

Long Island Fishing Report

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