Belmar Fishing Charters | 7 Hour Charter Trip
When you're looking for a serious day of fishing out of Belmar, Captain Cal 2 Charters delivers the kind of experience that keeps anglers coming back season after season. The 90-foot Lydia isn't just another fishing boat - she's a floating command center built for putting fish in the cooler. With room for up to 70 anglers, you'll have plenty of elbow room to work your lines without feeling crowded. The expansive deck gives everyone a fair shot at the action, whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who lives and breathes saltwater fishing.
What to Expect on the Water
Captain Cal 2 runs a tight ship, and it shows from the moment you step aboard the Lydia. This isn't some weekend warrior operation - we're talking about a meticulously maintained vessel with all the bells and whistles you want when you're serious about catching fish. The boat features comfortable sheltered areas when you need a break from the sun, plus clean facilities that make those long 7-hour trips much more enjoyable. The crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they're not shy about sharing tips that'll help you put more fish in the box. Whether you're bringing your own tackle or using what's on board, you'll find everything you need to make the most of your time on the water. The top-notch navigation equipment means we're not wasting time wandering around - we're getting you to where the fish are biting.
Techniques & Tackle
Inshore fishing around Belmar means adapting your approach based on what's biting and where we find them. The crew aboard the Lydia knows how to read the water, and they'll set you up with the right gear for the conditions. You'll be working everything from lighter tackle for scup and summer flounder to heavier rigs when we're targeting black sea bass around structure. Bottom fishing is the name of the game for most of our target species, using everything from traditional sinker rigs to more specialized setups depending on the depth and current. The boat's size gives us the stability to fish effectively even when conditions get a bit sloppy, and the crew is always ready to help you adjust your technique based on what's working. Don't worry if you're new to this - they'll show you the ropes and make sure you're fishing effectively from the start.
Customer Stories
"I have been to Belmar several times, but this is the first time I have boarded the Captain Cal 2 ship and it was truly incredible." - Beso. "Everyone caught enough fish and the service was top quality. Guys have to get on this boat too and you won't regret it, from now on this is going to be my favorite boat. Thank you Captain Cal 2, it was an excellent trip" - Christian. "Andrew and Chris were awesome, kept positive energy flowing during times when the action was low. Overall, awesome time and looking forward to coming back." - Rome.
Target Species
Summer flounder are the bread and butter of Belmar fishing, and for good reason. These flatfish can grow to impressive sizes in New Jersey waters, with doormat-sized fluke pushing 8-10 pounds when conditions are right. They're ambush predators that bury themselves in sandy bottoms, waiting for baitfish to swim by. The best action typically runs from late spring through early fall, with peak fishing in summer months when water temperatures hit their sweet spot. What makes flounder so appealing is their willingness to hit a variety of baits - from live killifish and squid strips to bucktails tipped with gulp. Plus, they're fantastic table fare that'll make any fish fry a success.
Scup might not win any beauty contests, but they make up for it with aggressive feeding and excellent eating. These silvery bottom dwellers are school fish, which means when you find one, you'll usually find a bunch. They're particularly active during summer months and can provide non-stop action when you locate a good school. Scup hit small hooks and light tackle, making them perfect for anglers who want to feel every bite. They're also one of the best fish for beginners since they're not particularly line-shy and will hit a variety of baits including clams, worms, and small squid pieces.
Black sea bass are the heavyweight champions of the inshore scene around Belmar. These stocky, aggressive fish love structure - wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottom where they can ambush prey. They're curious by nature and will often follow hooked fish to the surface, giving you a chance at multiple hookups. Sea bass are most active during warmer months but can be caught well into fall when they start their migration offshore. What anglers love about black sea bass is their fighting ability relative to their size - a 3-4 pound sea bass will give you a workout on appropriate tackle.
Tautog are the bulldogs of the bottom fishing world. These tough, hard-fighting fish are masters at using structure to their advantage, often wrapping your line around rocks or pilings if you give them half a chance. They require a different approach than other species - heavy tackle, strong hooks, and the ability to muscle them away from cover quickly. Tautog are most active in cooler water, making spring and fall prime time for targeting them. They're also some of the best eating fish in the ocean, with firm white meat that's perfect for chowders or simply prepared fillets. The challenge of hooking and landing a good-sized tog keeps experienced anglers coming back for more.
Time to Book Your Spot
Captain Cal 2 Charters has built a reputation as one of Belmar's top-rated fishing operations, and spots on the Lydia fill up fast during peak season. This 7-hour charter gives you plenty of time to work different spots and target multiple species, maximizing your chances of bringing home a cooler full of fish. The experience