Connecticut Striped Bass Fishing Charters
When it comes to world-class striped bass fishing, few places rival the Connecticut coast, and Captain Peter Corrao's operation out of New London puts you right in the heart of the action. FlyLight Charters has been putting anglers on trophy stripers for years, and whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this charter delivers the goods. The season runs strong from April 15 through October 28, giving you plenty of opportunities to get out there and chase these legendary gamefish in some of the most productive waters on the East Coast.
What to Expect on the Water
You'll meet Captain Peter bright and early at 8:00 AM at the New London marina, where his 23-foot Jones Brothers center console awaits. This isn't some beat-up boat – we're talking about a serious fishing machine powered by a reliable 250HP Yamaha that'll get you to the fish fast and keep you comfortable all day long. The boat handles beautifully in Connecticut's coastal waters, whether you're working the shoreline structure or heading out to deeper water where the big schools hang out. You've got three trip options that cater to different schedules and budgets: the half-day adventure runs four hours for $475, the three-quarter day stretches to six hours for $625, and the full-day experience gives you eight solid hours of fishing for $750. All pricing covers two anglers, but Captain Peter can accommodate up to four guests total with additional fees for extra rods in the water. The beauty of this setup is that all your tackle needs are covered – rods, reels, and a full selection of lures and bait are provided, so you can focus on what matters most: hooking fish.
Techniques & Tackle
Captain Peter knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll adjust tactics based on what the fish are doing and when you're out there. Early season stripers often hold tight to structure, so you might find yourself casting live eels or chunking bunker around rocky points and drop-offs. As water temperatures climb, trolling becomes deadly effective – expect to pull umbrella rigs, tube-and-worm combos, or diving plugs through likely areas where bass are chasing baitfish. The tackle setup is top-notch, featuring quality spinning and conventional gear that can handle everything from schoolie bass to those wall-hanger cows that make your drag sing. Don't be surprised if you also tangle with bluefish, bonito, or false albacore during your trip – these bonus species show up seasonally and provide fantastic action on lighter tackle. The captain reads the conditions daily, watching everything from water temperature to bait movements, so your techniques might shift from live-lining pogies in the morning to throwing topwater plugs during an evening bite.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Striped bass are the main event here, and for good reason – these fish are absolute legends among East Coast anglers. Connecticut's waters host some of the most consistent striper fishing you'll find anywhere, with fish ranging from feisty schoolies in the 18 to 28-inch range all the way up to trophy cows pushing 40 inches or more. Spring fishing typically kicks off with smaller fish moving inshore to feed, but as the season progresses, you'll encounter those heart-stopping moments when a massive bass crushes your offering. What makes stripers so special is their fighting ability – they'll make blistering runs, jump clear of the water, and test every knot in your setup. Peak times vary throughout the season, but expect the best action during moving water around dawn and dusk, though these fish can be caught throughout the day when conditions are right. The diversity doesn't stop with stripers, though. Bluefish often crash the party with their aggressive feeding behavior and razor-sharp teeth, providing non-stop action when they're around. Bonito and false albacore, locally called albies, show up during late summer and fall migrations, offering some of the fastest, most technical fishing you can imagine on light tackle.
Time to Book Your Spot
Connecticut's striper season waits for nobody, and the best dates fill up fast with returning customers who know what Captain Peter delivers. Whether you're planning a quick half-day trip to get your fix or want to go all-in with a full eight-hour adventure, FlyLight Charters gives you the flexibility to fish your way. Remember to pack your own food and drinks – there's nothing like enjoying a good sandwich between hot bites while watching the Connecticut coastline roll by. The boat launches from New London, putting you minutes away from proven fishing grounds, so you'll spend more time with lines in the water and less time running to spots. This is customer-favorite fishing at its finest, combining local expertise, quality equipment, and some of the most renowned striped bass waters on the planet. Don't wait – these prime fishing dates disappear quickly, and you don't want to be the angler stuck on shore wishing you'd booked when you had the chance.