Bluefin Tuna Fishing in Cape Cod
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target bluefin tuna using light spinning tackle and surface luresFish prime locations including Stellwagen Bank and Cape Cod BaySmall group experience with maximum three guests per trip
Looking for the ultimate light tackle challenge in New England waters? You've found it. Cape Cod Fishing Adventures takes you straight to the heart of bluefin tuna country, where Stellwagen Bank and Cape Cod Bay hold some of the Northeast's most prized fish. This isn't your typical bottom fishing trip – we're talking about going head-to-head with apex predators using spinning tackle that puts you right in the fight. With just three anglers per trip, you'll get the personalized attention and prime fishing spots that make all the difference when you're chasing giants.
Your day starts early because that's when the bluefin are most active. We'll head out to proven grounds like Stellwagen Bank, a legendary underwater plateau where baitfish stack up and bluefin come to feed. On certain days, we'll venture east of Chatham where the continental shelf drops off and big fish cruise the edges. The beauty of this trip is the intimate setting – with only three anglers aboard, everyone gets plenty of rod time and personal coaching. You're not fighting for position or waiting your turn while fish are biting. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, reading bird activity, water temperature breaks, and bait schools to put you on fish. Morning trips often start with surface activity, watching for birds diving and bluefin crashing bait on top. As the day progresses, we'll adjust tactics based on what the fish are doing.
We fish exclusively with stand-up spinning gear, which means you're in for a real workout when you hook up. Surface casting with topwater lures is pure adrenaline – watching a 200-pound bluefin explode on your popper is something you'll never forget. When fish are deeper, we switch to vertical jigging with heavy metal jigs that get down fast and trigger aggressive strikes. The spinning tackle keeps things sporting and gives the fish a fighting chance, but don't worry – the gear is matched to handle these powerful fish. You'll be fishing with quality reels spooled with heavy braid and fluorocarbon leaders that can stand up to bluefin teeth. The captain will walk you through proper fighting technique, including how to use your legs and core instead of just your arms. Proper harness use is crucial for longer fights, and learning to work the fish in a figure-eight pattern helps tire them out faster. We carry a variety of lure weights and colors to match conditions, from light jigs for finicky fish to heavy iron for deep water power fishing.
Bluefin tuna are the undisputed kings of Cape Cod's offshore waters, and for good reason. These fish are built for speed and power, with torpedo-shaped bodies that can reach speeds over 40 mph. Local bluefin typically range from 40 to 200+ pounds, with the bigger fish showing up later in the season as they fatten up for their southern migration. What makes bluefin so special is their intelligence – they're notoriously picky eaters that can turn finicky without warning. One minute they're smashing every lure you throw, the next they're completely shut down. Peak season runs from June through October, with September and early October producing the largest fish as schools of giant bluefin stage for migration. The fight is legendary – these fish make blistering runs that can strip 200 yards of line in seconds, followed by powerful deep runs that test your stamina and drag system. Bluefin are also prized for their incredible table fare, with the highest grade fish rivaling anything served in top sushi restaurants. The combination of their fighting ability, intelligence, and culinary value makes them the holy grail for Northeast anglers.
Cape Cod's bluefin season is short but sweet, and the best fishing windows fill up fast. This top-rated charter offers something you won't find on crowded party boats – personalized service, prime fishing time, and the chance to really learn from an experienced captain. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for your personal best or someone ready to step up from inshore fishing, this trip delivers the world-class bluefin action Cape Cod is famous for. The small group size means better fishing, more attention, and memories that'll last long after the season ends. Don't wait until the fish are gone – book your bluefin adventure and find out why this light tackle challenge keeps anglers coming back year after year.
This well-equipped motorboat puts you right in the action on Stellwagen Bank and Cape Cod Bay, prime bluefin territory. Built for serious anglers, she's loaded with a fish finder to mark those tuna schools, GPS to navigate the productive waters, and radar for when the fog rolls in. The wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet when you need stealth. Whether you're casting surface lures or deep jigging with stand up tackle, this boat handles the challenge. An ice box keeps your catch fresh, while the VHF radio maintains contact with other boats. The onboard facilities mean you can stay out longer chasing those powerful fish. Perfect for small groups of three who want the ultimate light tackle bluefin experience off Cape Cod.
Mashpee, MA