Sunset Cruises with Aquila Sportfishing
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Relaxing sunset cruise with optional fishing opportunitiesIntimate group setting accommodating up to six guestsBreathtaking coastal scenery during golden hour viewing
Picture this: you're out on the water with Aquila Sportfishing as the day starts winding down, and whether you've got a rod in hand or you're just soaking up the moment, you're in for something special. Our sunset cruises aren't your typical fishing charters – they're perfect for anyone who wants to experience the magic of golden hour on the water, fishing optional. With space for up to 6 guests, it's an intimate way to end your day, and trust me, the scenery will have you reaching for your camera more than once.
When you step aboard for one of our sunset trips, you're signing up for the best part of any fishing day – that sweet spot when the water calms down and everything just feels right. The boat's equipped to handle whatever you're in the mood for, whether that's casting a line during the golden hour bite or simply kicking back while someone else does the fishing. We've found that some of our most memorable trips happen when half the group is actively fishing while the others are just enjoying the ride. The inshore waters come alive during this time of day, and you'll see why so many anglers swear by evening fishing. Birds start working the surface, baitfish get active, and if you do decide to wet a line, you might be surprised what shows up.
For sunset trips, we keep the tackle setup simple but effective. Light spinning gear works great for this time of day – nothing too heavy since we're working the shallows and staying close to structure. Live bait is usually the way to go when the sun starts dropping, and we'll have plenty of options rigged and ready. If you're new to inshore fishing, don't stress about technique – these evening bites are forgiving, and the fish aren't as spooky as they get during midday heat. We'll anchor up near productive spots or do some slow drifting, depending on what the conditions look like. The beauty of sunset fishing is that it's as much about the experience as it is about what ends up in the cooler. We've got all the safety gear sorted, and the boat's set up so everyone can spread out and find their own space, whether you're actively fishing or just taking in the view.
Even though this trip caters to non-anglers too, the fishing can be surprisingly good during sunset hours in our local inshore waters. Redfish become more active as the temperature drops, and they're absolute fighters on light tackle. These copper-colored bruisers love to cruise the shallows during evening hours, especially around oyster bars and grass flats. You'll know when you've hooked into one – they make that distinctive drumming sound and will test your drag system. Best part about reds is they're cooperative year-round, though fall and spring offer the most consistent action. Guests love them because they're aggressive, beautiful fish that photograph well and taste even better.
Speckled trout are another evening favorite that show up regularly on our sunset trips. These fish are perfect for beginners since they're not too finicky about presentation, but they're scrappy enough to keep things interesting. Specks love to feed in the evening, especially when there's a good tide movement. They'll hit live bait, soft plastics, or even topwater lures if conditions are right. Most of what we catch range from keeper size up to some real gator trout that'll have you grinning for the camera. They're also excellent table fare, and nothing beats fresh speckled trout for dinner after a sunset cruise.
Flounder might not be the flashiest fish in our waters, but they're consistent evening biters that always surprise first-time inshore anglers. These flatfish are masters of camouflage and love to ambush bait from sandy bottoms and muddy flats. The fight isn't spectacular, but there's something satisfying about fooling a flounder, and they're hands-down some of the best eating fish you'll find. We typically find them around structure changes and drop-offs, and they're most active during moving water. Guests get a kick out of how different they look from typical fish, and they're perfect for anyone who wants to experience inshore fishing without dealing with a fish that's going to wear them out.
There's something about being on the water when the day starts cooling off that just hits different. Maybe it's because the pressure's off – you're not grinding for a full day's worth of fish, just enjoying whatever happens. The light gets incredible during that last hour before sunset, and even if the fish aren't cooperating, you're still winning. We've had trips where nobody touched a rod for the first hour, then suddenly everyone's scrambling for gear when the evening bite turns on. That's the beauty of these sunset runs – they're unpredictable in the best way possible. Plus, there's nothing quite like watching the sun drop while you're drifting over some of our best inshore spots. The whole experience just feels more relaxed than your typical fishing charter, but with all the potential for some great catches.
Whether you're a serious angler looking for that evening bite or someone who just wants to experience our local waters without the commitment of a full fishing trip, our sunset cruises deliver every time. With only 6 spots available, these trips fill up fast, especially during peak season when the weather's perfect and the fish are most active. Book your spot with Aquila Sportfishing and see why sunset on the water beats sunset from shore every single time. Bring your camera, bring your appetite for adventure, and leave the rest to us – we'll handle the boat, the gear, and finding the spots where the magic happens.
Beach Haven, NJ