NYC Inshore Fishing: 5-Hour Private Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private 5-hour charter accommodates up to 6 guests for inshore fishingTarget multiple species including striped bass, tuna, and flounderMorning departure at 7 AM with expert guidance and equipment provided
Looking for a solid fishing day without the crowds? Our private 5-hour charter gets you on the water at 7 am sharp, targeting some of the best inshore fishing grounds around New York City. With just your group of up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of room to fish comfortably while our experienced captain puts you on the fish. We're talking real fishing here - not just a boat ride with rods thrown over the side. From the Harbor to Jamaica Bay and beyond, these waters hold serious potential for stripers, fluke, cod, and cobia when conditions align.
This isn't your typical party boat scene. When you book with Encore Water Ways Inc, you're getting a dedicated captain who knows these waters inside and out, plus all the tackle and gear you need to make it happen. We'll pick our spots based on what's biting, current conditions, and what you're hoping to target. Some days we're working structure for stripers, other days we're drifting for fluke over sandy bottom. The beauty of a private charter is flexibility - if the bite slows down in one area, we're moving to the next spot without waiting for other anglers to agree. Five hours gives us real time to work different areas and techniques, not just hit one spot and hope for the best.
We fish these inshore waters with a mix of techniques depending on what's working. For stripers, we'll often start with live bait or fresh chunks around structure - bridges, points, and drop-offs where these fish like to ambush baitfish. When fluke are the target, we're drifting with bucktails tipped with strips or fishing whole squid on sinker rigs. The tackle setup changes based on current, depth, and what we're after, but we keep everything from light spinning gear for smaller fish up to conventional reels when bigger stripers or cobia show up. Our captain handles all the rigging and will show you exactly how to work each setup effectively. No need to bring your own gear unless you want to - we've got everything covered from rods and reels to terminal tackle and fresh bait.
Summer Flounder are the bread and butter of NYC inshore fishing from late spring through fall. These flatfish can range from keeper-size 19-inchers up to genuine doormats pushing 8+ pounds. Fluke are ambush predators that bury themselves in sand and mud, waiting for baitfish to swim by. The bigger fish typically hold in deeper water with stronger current, which is why having a captain who knows the right drifts makes all the difference. What makes fluke fishing so addictive is you never know when that next drift might produce a true trophy - plus they're fantastic eating when prepared right.
Striped Bass are the crown jewel of local fishing, and NYC's inshore waters see both resident fish and migratory schools depending on the season. These fish can range from schoolie-size around 20 inches up to real cows over 40 pounds. Stripers are smart, aggressive predators that feed heavily on bunker, herring, and other baitfish. They love structure - think bridge pilings, rocky points, and drop-offs where current creates ambush opportunities. Peak action often happens during moving water, especially around dawn and dusk. Landing a big striper on light tackle is about as good as inshore fishing gets around here.
Atlantic Cod might surprise some anglers as an inshore target, but these waters hold both year-round residents and seasonal visitors. NYC area cod typically run smaller than their offshore cousins, but they're still a blast to catch and excellent table fare. These bottom-dwellers prefer cooler water and structure, feeding on crabs, worms, and small fish. Cod fishing often picks up during fall and winter when water temperatures drop, making them a great target for those willing to brave cooler conditions. They fight hard for their size and have that distinctive head-shaking action that lets you know what's on the other end.
Cobia are the wild card species that can really make a trip memorable. These powerful fish show up in warmer months, often cruising near the surface where you can actually sight-fish for them. Cobia are aggressive feeders that will hit live bait, chunks, or even lures when they're in the mood. What makes them special is their size potential - a good cobia can easily hit 30+ pounds and will give you a serious workout on appropriate tackle. They're relatively rare compared to other species, so when one shows up, it's always a highlight of the day.
Five hours on the water with your own group is hard to beat, especially when you're working productive inshore grounds with a captain who puts fish first. Whether you're looking to put dinner on the table, introduce someone new to fishing, or just get away from the city buzz for a while, this charter delivers real fishing action without the offshore commitment. Our top-rated service and local expertise mean you're spending your time fishing, not wondering where the fish are. Ready to get on the water? These private charters fill up fast during prime season, so grab your dates while they're available.
Hit the waters around NYC aboard our beautifully restored 1995 Viking Cruiser! This 43-foot fishing machine was completely renovated in 2021 and comes loaded with everything you need for a successful day chasing stripers, blues, and tuna. Twin Volvo engines get you to the hotspots fast at 25 knots, while the fish finder helps locate schools and structure. Stay comfortable between bites with A/C, a full kitchen, and cold drinks from the fridge. The radar keeps you safe in any conditions, and there's even a bed if someone needs a break from the action. With room for 6 anglers and all the gear, this boat is perfect for serious fishing or introducing newcomers to what NYC waters have to offer. From fluke to bluefin, you'll have the platform to target whatever's biting!
Gadus MorhuaAtlantic Cod are bottom dwellers that hang around rocky areas and wrecks in 60-200 feet of water. They're easily recognized by that barbel under their chin and those white lateral lines. Most fish we catch run 10-30 pounds, though bigger ones are out there. Winter and early spring offer the best shots at cod when they move into shallower waters. These fish are prized for their mild, flaky white meat - perfect for fish and chips. They don't fight as hard as some species, more of a steady pull to the bottom. Cod respond well to both bait and jigs. Diamond jigs work great, but don't overlook fresh clams or sea worms on a simple bottom rig. Here's a local trick: add a small piece of chartreuse plastic worm to your hook. Something about that color drives them crazy, especially when the bite gets tough.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are solo hunters that cruise near the surface, often mistaken for sharks with their dark brown coloring and single dorsal fin. These bruisers average around 30-50 pounds and can reach 6 feet long. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and other structure in 30-70 feet of water during summer months. They migrate through our area from late spring into fall. What sets cobia apart is their aggressive nature and excellent eating quality - firm, white meat that's restaurant-grade. They put up a serious fight with powerful runs and head shakes. Since they're usually alone, sight fishing works best. Bucktail jigs in any color will do the trick, but live eels or large soft plastics work too. The secret is presentation - cobia are curious but spooky. Make a long cast past the fish and work your lure back slowly. If they follow but don't bite, switch to a different lure immediately.
Morone SaxatilisStripers are the backbone of our local fishing scene. These silver beauties with their distinctive black stripes typically run 20-40 pounds, though we see bigger ones regularly. They love structure - rocks, drop-offs, bridge pilings - and you'll find them anywhere from 10 to 80 feet deep. Spring and fall migrations bring the best action when they're moving up and down the coast chasing bait. What makes stripers so popular is their strong fight and excellent table fare with that sweet, flaky meat. They're smart fish that can be picky about presentations. The key around here is matching the bait to what they're feeding on. When you see birds working or bait breaking the surface, get there fast. Use live eels at night around structure, or throw bucktails during the day when they're chasing bunker schools in open water.
Paralichthys DentatusThese flatfish are masters of disguise - they lie on the bottom with both eyes on their left side, changing colors to match the seafloor. Most run 15-20 inches, but you'll occasionally hook into bigger specimens up to 26 pounds. They're ambush predators that love sandy and muddy bottoms in 20-60 feet of water. Fall months from September through November are prime time when they're feeding heavily before winter. What makes them special is their sweet, flaky meat - some of the best eating you'll find. They fight differently than other fish, more of a heavy pull than wild runs. Pro tip: use a bucktail jig with a strip of squid and work it slowly along the bottom. When you feel that tap-tap, give it a second before setting the hook - they bite sideways and need time to turn the bait.
New York City, NY