6-Hour Shark And Stingray Night Fishing Adventure
Cape May's evening waters come alive with some of the most exciting fishing you'll find along the Jersey Shore. Guide Kevin takes you out when the real action starts – 7 PM to 1 AM – targeting sharks and stingrays during their prime feeding hours. This isn't your typical day trip fishing for fluke or stripers. We're talking about hooking into powerful predators that'll test your skills and give you stories to tell for years. With just two spots available per trip, you get personal attention whether you're new to fishing or have been working these waters your whole life.
What to Expect on the Water
Night fishing for sharks is a whole different game than daytime angling. Once the sun drops, these apex predators move into shallower waters to hunt, and that's when we strike. Kevin positions the boat over productive bottom where sharks and rays patrol regularly. The 6-hour window gives us plenty of time to work multiple spots and adjust our approach based on what's biting. You'll be fishing with heavy tackle designed to handle serious fish – think circle hooks, wire leaders, and rods with enough backbone to turn a running shark. The darkness adds an element of surprise to every bite. You might feel that first thump and wonder if it's a crab picking at your bait, then suddenly your rod doubles over and drag starts screaming. Kevin provides all the gear, fresh bait, and knows exactly how to rig everything for maximum success in these specific waters.
Proven Techniques & Tackle
Shark fishing requires patience and the right setup. We use a variety of baits depending on what's working – fresh bunker, mackerel, or bluefish chunks that put out a strong scent trail. Kevin rigs everything with heavy mono or wire leaders because these fish have teeth that'll cut through regular line like butter. We fish with multiple rods at different depths, some right on the bottom for rays and bottom-dwelling sharks, others suspended in the water column for species that hunt higher up. The boat stays anchored or drifts slowly, letting the bait work naturally in the current. When something takes the bait, there's a specific technique for fighting these fish safely. Kevin walks you through proper form – how to use your legs, when to pump and wind, and most importantly, how to handle the fish for a quick photo and safe release. Circle hooks are mandatory for shark fishing, and Kevin explains why they're better for both hook-up rates and fish survival.
Customer Stories
"am a fisherman myself, without a guide I've always been a fisherman. I'm not new to the scene and what's right or wrong. You cannot and will not go wrong with the catterman adventure. One of the most knowledgeable captains I've ever met, with an incredible first mate that will both work relentlessly into the night to ensure that you have that night of your life. We called him yesterday, the same day he took us out and we caught 1 shark every hour and had many more bites and caught other species as well. It was absolutely incredible and this is the norm for these guys. Well presented, very good at what they do. I 100% recommend them. They are great people that will 100% help you accomplish your dream. A great place to invest your hard earned money to have a relaxful night of shark fishing. You will be left sore and tired from too much fun. We have no regrets and I am more impressed then I've ever been fishing with someone else. They care about the sharks immensely and take the absolute best care of them while keeping you safe. Thank you Catterman 💪🏽 this trip was so much fun, that we are booking again only 4 days later." - Hunter
"Amazing!!! We caught sharks consistently throughout the night!! Kevin and his first mate Tony were awesome!! It's hard to describe the feeling of holding one of these creatures by the tail and feeling their power!! The safety of the sharks were of utmost importance to Tony. We can't wait to schedule our next trip!!" - Ken
"We had an incredible time fishing with Kevin, from The Catterman Adventures! My kids had been dreaming of landing some big fish on our vacation to the shore, but because of some inclement weather, our charter boat was cancelled at the last minute. I was fortunate enough to find The Catterman Adventures website and Kevin had us booked for the experience of a lifetime the very next day! Kevin worked tirelessly in the rain and wind to give my kids and I the most memorable and special fishing experience ever. We landed big beautiful sharks, as well as countless other fish, and learned a great deal about the ecology and biology of the area. Kevin is an amazing teacher and demonstrates the utmost care and concern for his clients, and more importantly, for the incredible ocean creatures he loves. I highly recommend this experience to anyone. Thanks Kevin!" - Keith
Species You'll Want to Hook
Dusky Smooth-Hound sharks are some of the most cooperative fighters you'll encounter on these trips. These sharks typically run 2-4 feet and have a habit of making strong initial runs before settling into a steady fight. They're bottom dwellers that love feeding on crabs and small fish, so they respond well to fresh cut bait fished right on the sand. What makes them special is their willingness to bite consistently once you find them, and they're perfect for anglers looking to get that first shark under their belt.
Southern Stingrays bring a completely different fight to the table. These flat fish can span 3-5 feet across and use their wing-like shape to create massive resistance in the water. When hooked, they head straight for the bottom and try to bury themselves in the sand. It feels like you're trying to pull a manhole cover off the ocean floor. They're most active during warmer months and love shallow sandy areas where they can hunt for clams and worms. The fight might not be fast, but it's a real test of endurance.
Spinner Sharks live up to