Cape Cod Fishing Charters
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target Black Sea Bass, Tautog, Scup and Striped Bass inshoreFish prime waters of Vineyard Sound and Buzzards BayCaptainprovided license included with charter booking
Looking for some of the best inshore fishing on the East Coast? You've found it right here with Bloodline Fishing Charters. We're talking about world-class fishing in Cape Cod's legendary waters, where Striped Bass, Black Sea Bass, Tautog, and Scup are practically waiting to jump on your hook. Our captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, and with your fishing license already covered, all you need to bring is your enthusiasm and maybe a cooler for your catch. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this is the kind of fishing trip that'll have you planning your next one before you even hit the dock.
Your day starts in some of the most productive fishing waters on Cape Cod – the Vineyard Sound and the legendary Buzzards Bay. These aren't just pretty names on a map; they're fish-holding goldmines that have been producing trophy catches for generations. Our top-rated charter accommodates up to 6 anglers, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants a more personal fishing experience without the crowds you'll find on party boats. The captain will position you over structure where these fish love to hang out – rocky bottoms, drop-offs, and underwater ledges that hold baitfish and attract the predators we're after. You'll be fishing in water that ranges from 15 to 60 feet deep, depending on what's biting and where the fish are stacked up on any given day.
We're set up for serious bottom fishing and light tackle action that'll keep your rod bent all day long. The boat comes equipped with quality rods, reels, and all the terminal tackle you need – circle hooks, sinkers, and fresh bait that these Cape Cod fish can't resist. For the Striped Bass, we'll often work with live eels, chunk herring, or soft plastics depending on the season and what they're feeding on. The bottom species like Tautog and Black Sea Bass love green crabs and clams, while Scup will hit just about anything when they're in a feeding mood. You'll learn how to read your rod tip, feel the difference between a fish pickup and bottom structure, and master the art of setting the hook on different species. The captain will teach you when to let a Striper run with the bait and when to set the hook immediately on a Sea Bass bite.
Striped Bass are the crown jewel of Cape Cod fishing, and for good reason. These silver-sided fighters can range from schoolie size up to trophy fish pushing 40+ pounds in these waters. Spring and fall are prime time, when they're feeding heavily during their migration routes. What makes Stripers so special is their fight – they'll make long runs, jump, and test your drag system like few other fish. Plus, they're excellent table fare when prepared right. In Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound, they often hunt in schools, so when you find one, you'll usually find more.
Black Sea Bass might be smaller than Stripers, but pound-for-pound they're some of the strongest fish in these waters. They typically run 1-4 pounds in our area, with the occasional 5+ pounder that'll really make your day. These fish are structure-oriented, living around rocks, wrecks, and hard bottom areas. Summer through early fall is their peak season here, and they're considered some of the best eating fish you can catch. They've got sharp spines, so the captain will show you the proper way to handle them safely.
Tautog, or "blackfish" as the locals call them, are the bulldogs of the bottom. These fish have powerful jaws designed for crushing shellfish, and they'll test your tackle and patience. They're notorious bait stealers, but when you hook a good one, you'll know it immediately. Fall is prime Tautog season in Cape Cod waters, and they can grow quite large – fish over 6 pounds aren't uncommon. They require a different technique than other species, with a more finesse approach and quality crab baits.
Scup (or "porgies") are often underestimated, but they're fantastic fish for beginners and experts alike. They're abundant in summer, fight harder than their size suggests, and make excellent table fare. These fish travel in large schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're perfect for getting kids or new anglers into the sport, as they bite readily and don't require specialized techniques.
This is the kind of fishing experience that creates lifelong memories and turns casual anglers into serious fishing enthusiasts. With Bloodline Fishing Charters, you're getting local knowledge, quality equipment, and access to some of the most productive fishing waters in New England. The combination of Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay gives us multiple options depending on weather, tides, and where the fish are biting best. Your license is covered, the tackle is provided, and the captain's expertise comes included – all you need to do is show up ready to fish. Whether you're looking to introduce someone new to the sport or add another great day on the water to your fishing resume, this Cape Cod charter delivers the goods. Don't wait until the prime dates are booked up – reserve your spot today and get ready for some of the best inshore fishing the Northeast has to offer.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are steady producers around Cape Cod's rocky bottom and wrecks. Most fish run 1-4 pounds with chunky bodies and big mouths. They hang around structure in 20-120 feet of water, especially during late spring through summer when they move inshore. Guests appreciate their consistent bite and excellent table fare - sweet, flaky meat that's hard to beat. They fight well until they break the surface, then give up quick. The secret is using squid strips on a two-hook bottom rig and keeping your bait just off the rocks. Don't horse them up too fast or they'll throw the hook, but don't give them slack either.
Stenotomus ChrysopsScup, or porgies, are perfect for families and new anglers. These silvery bottom feeders usually run 8-14 inches and put up a decent scrap for their size. You'll find them around rocky areas and structure from May through October when the water warms up. They're excellent eating - firm, white meat that's hard to beat. What I love about scup fishing is how reliable they are. Drop some squid or clam on a simple bottom rig and you're in business. Here's the trick: once you find them, they're usually in schools. Keep your bait moving slightly off the bottom and you'll outfish everyone anchored right on it.
Morone SaxatilisStripers are the crown jewel of Cape Cod fishing. These silver-sided fighters typically run 20-40 pounds around here, though we see plenty bigger. They love structure - rocks, drop-offs, and current breaks where baitfish get pushed around. Spring through fall is prime time when they migrate through our waters. What makes them special? They fight hard and taste even better. The key to landing one consistently is watching the birds - when you see them diving, there's likely stripers feeding underneath. We fish them around dawn and dusk when they're most active, using live bait or lures that match whatever they're chasing.
Tautoga OnitisBlackfish are the bulldozers of Cape Cod waters. These chunky fighters average 1-3 pounds but can hit 8-10 pounds around the right structure. They live tight to rocks, wrecks, and jetties, which makes landing them tricky but rewarding. Best fishing is spring and fall when they're most active. What guests love is the challenge - they're smart fish with powerful jaws built for crushing shellfish. The meat is sweet and firm, perfect for the table. My go-to trick is using green crabs with the legs crushed up for chum. Fish just off the rocks, not right in them, and be ready to pull hard when they bite. They'll wrap you up in structure faster than you can blink.
Sandwich, MA