Spring Striped Bass Fishing in Keyport NJ
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Sixhour striped bass fishing trip in Raritan Bay watersProfessional crew provides all equipment and fishing guidance includedSpring season runs April through June during peak migration
Picture yourself casting lines into Raritan Bay's prime fishing waters as the spring striped bass run kicks into high gear. This six-hour guided trip from Keyport puts you right in the middle of one of New Jersey's most productive fishing seasons. Running from April through early June, we time these trips perfectly with the spring migration when hungry stripers are moving through our local waters in serious numbers. You'll fish aboard a comfortable 28' Carolina Classic with a seasoned crew who knows exactly where these fish like to hang out.
Your morning starts at the Keyport marina where you'll meet your captain and crew who've been working these waters for years. The 28' Carolina Classic is built for stability and comfort, giving you plenty of room to fight fish without bumping into other anglers. We keep groups small at just six people max, so you get personalized attention whether you're a weekend warrior or picking up a rod for the first time. The boat's equipped with all the electronics you need to locate fish, plus rod holders, a fish box, and everything else that makes for a smooth day on the water. Your crew handles all the gear prep, bait rigging, and navigation so you can focus on what you came for - catching fish.
We provide all the tackle you'll need, from medium-heavy spinning rods perfect for stripers to a full selection of lures and terminal gear. Depending on conditions and where the fish are holding, we might be throwing bucktails with soft plastics, working live eels near structure, or casting topwater plugs when the bass are feeding aggressively on the surface. The crew knows which presentations work best in different scenarios and will get you set up with the right gear for the day's bite. No need to bring your own equipment or worry about buying a fishing license - everything's covered. We'll adjust techniques based on tidal movement, water temperature, and what's working that particular morning.
Striped bass are the main attraction during this spring window, and for good reason. These powerful fish migrate up the coast in April and May, fattening up after their spawning runs and providing some of the year's best action. Raritan Bay stripers typically range from schoolie-sized fish around 18-24 inches up to solid keepers in the 28-35 inch range, with the occasional cow pushing 40+ inches that'll test your drag and fighting skills. What makes spring fishing so special is the fish's aggressive feeding behavior - they're hungry, active, and willing to hit a variety of lures. Stripers are known for their strong initial runs and dogged fighting style, often making multiple powerful surges toward the bottom. The best action usually happens during moving water, especially on the incoming tide when baitfish get pushed into the shallows and stripers follow to feed.
This seasonal trip only runs for two months, making it one of those experiences you don't want to miss if you're serious about inshore fishing. The spring migration is reliable, but the window is narrow - by early June, most of these fish have moved on to their summer haunts further north. With multiple morning departure times available, you can pick a slot that works with your schedule and still get a full six hours of productive fishing time. The small group size means spots fill up fast, especially on weekends when the bite is hot. Whether you're looking to introduce someone new to fishing or chase your personal best striper, this trip delivers the kind of consistent action that keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Our 28' Carolina Classic is perfectly rigged for Raritan Bay striped bass fishing out of Keyport. This proven fishing platform features outriggers for trolling, professional-grade tackle, and a fish finder to locate feeding schools. Captain Dragan knows these waters inside and out, targeting prime spots where stripers gather during their spring migration. The boat's flybridge gives you excellent visibility to spot birds working baitfish, while the onboard GPS and radar keep you on the fish even in marginal conditions. Comfort matters during those long battles with hefty bass - there's a private toilet, refrigerator for cold drinks, and even a bed for anyone who needs a break. With space for up to six anglers, you'll have plenty of room to work the fish without crowding. All rods, reels, and tackle are provided, so just bring yourself and get ready for some serious striped bass action in one of New Jersey's most productive fishing grounds.
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