3 Hour Somers Point NJ Reef Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Threehour reef fishing charter accommodates up to four guestsLight tackle bottom fishing and jigging techniques target productive reefsCaptain Dave adapts locations and methods for all experience levels
Looking for a solid half-day fishing trip that won't eat up your whole weekend? This 3-hour reef fishing charter out of Somers Point hits the sweet spot for anglers who want quality time on the water without the marathon commitment. Captain Dave knows these South Jersey waters like the back of his hand, and he's got a knack for putting his guests on fish while keeping things relaxed and fun. Whether you're bringing the family, introducing someone new to fishing, or just want to get your line wet with a small crew, this trip delivers the goods.
You'll be fishing some of the most productive reef structures off Somers Point, where the bottom drops away and creates perfect habitat for the fish you're after. The boat comfortably handles up to 4 anglers, giving everyone plenty of elbow room to fish without getting tangled up in each other's lines. Captain Dave keeps things flexible based on what's biting and where the conditions look best that day. The open deck layout means you can move around easily, and there's no crowding like you'd get on those cattle boat party charters. This is your own private fishing experience, and Dave adjusts his approach based on who's aboard - whether you've got seasoned anglers or first-timers who need a little extra guidance.
The fishing style here is all about reading the bottom and working the structure with light tackle that lets you feel every nibble. You'll be using spinning gear and jigs to target fish holding tight to the reef structure, plus some bottom rigs when the situation calls for it. Captain Dave switches up techniques based on what the fish want that day - sometimes they're aggressive and hit moving baits hard, other times you need to finesse them with a more subtle approach. The light tackle makes every fight more exciting and gives smaller fish a chance to put up a real battle. You'll learn to read your rod tip, feel the bottom, and distinguish between a snag and a fish pickup. It's hands-on fishing that teaches you skills you'll use for years to come.
Tautog are the real prize around these reefs, and for good reason. These chunky, hard-fighting fish live right in the rocks and structure, making them a blast to target but tricky to land. They've got crushing jaws designed to crack open mussels and crabs, so when they grab your bait, you know it. Best fishing for tog happens during the cooler months, especially fall when they're feeding heavy before winter. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but they're absolutely delicious and fight like they're twice their size. Landing a keeper tog from these reefs is something every angler should experience.
Summer flounder, or fluke as the locals call them, are the ultimate light tackle adversary. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, lying buried in the sand waiting to ambush baitfish. They hit fast and fight smart, using their flat profile to plane through the water and make long runs. The bigger females, called "doormat" fluke, can stretch over 20 inches and provide some of the most exciting fishing you'll find in New Jersey waters. Spring through early fall is prime time, and these reefs hold plenty of the structure and current that fluke love. Plus, they're fantastic eating - nothing beats fresh fluke fillets on the dinner table.
Striped bass are the crown jewel of the Atlantic coast, and the waters around Somers Point see great runs of these fish throughout the season. Stripers are aggressive predators that hit hard and make blistering runs, especially when hooked on light tackle. They school up around the reefs chasing baitfish, and when you find them feeding, the action can be non-stop. These fish are built for power - they're strong, smart, and always seem to know exactly where the nearest snag is when they're trying to break you off. The fall migration brings some of the biggest bass of the year through these waters, making every cast a potential trophy fish.
This 3-hour reef fishing charter gives you the perfect taste of what South Jersey fishing is all about. You'll work productive structure, learn proven techniques, and have shots at some seriously good fish without burning an entire day. Captain Dave's local knowledge and flexible approach mean you're getting the most out of your time on the water, whether conditions are perfect or you need to adapt to what Mother Nature throws at you. The intimate 4-person capacity ensures everyone gets personal attention and plenty of chances to get their lines in the water. Book your spot today and see why this has become a customer favorite for anglers who want quality fishing without the long haul.
Step aboard this well-equipped 24' Regulator center console, designed specifically for productive reef fishing adventures out of Somers Point. Built with anglers in mind, she offers generous deck space for up to four fishermen to work comfortably while targeting bottom species around local reefs and structures. The boat's layout maximizes fishing room while keeping everything within easy reach - from the tackle storage to the built-in icebox that'll keep your catch fresh and your drinks cold throughout the trip. Captain Dave has outfitted her with reliable GPS navigation and fish finder electronics to locate the most productive spots, whether you're jigging over structure or spinning near the reefs. The onboard facilities include a private head, making longer trips comfortable for families and mixed groups. Her stable ride handles the back bay waters smoothly, allowing you to focus on fishing rather than fighting rough seas. Perfect for small groups wanting a private charter experience with room to move around and try different techniques as conditions change.
Morone SaxatilisThe classic striper is what brings most people back to these waters. These silver-sided fighters with their distinctive black stripes can run anywhere from schoolie size up to 20-30 pounders around our reefs. They're structure-oriented fish, cruising the edges of wrecks and rock piles hunting bunker, herring, and squid. Best action is spring through fall during their coastal migration, with dawn and dusk being prime feeding times. Stripers fight hard and smart - they'll use the structure against you and make powerful runs. The meat is excellent too, with a clean taste that's perfect on the grill. My go-to technique is live bunker or fresh clams fished near bottom around structure. Keep your drag smooth because when a big bass hits, it's going to test everything you've got.
Paralichthys DentatusThese flatfish are masters of disguise, changing color to match the sandy bottom where they ambush prey. Running 15-20 inches typically, with the big females reaching 5-6 pounds. They bury themselves in sand near drop-offs and structure edges, waiting for baitfish to swim by. Fall is prime time - September through November when they're feeding heavy before moving offshore for winter. What makes fluke special is the challenge - they bite light and you need to feel that subtle tap. Plus, they're fantastic table fare with sweet, flaky white meat. The key is using a light sinker and keeping your bait moving just off bottom. Hook your baitfish through the lips and give it some action - these fish want to see movement before they commit to the bite.
Tautoga OnitisAlso called blackfish, these chunky fighters love hanging around our reef structures where they feed on crabs, mussels, and barnacles. Their powerful jaws can crush shellfish easily, making them tough customers once hooked. Most run 1-3 pounds, but we see some real bulls pushing 8-10 pounds around the jetties and wrecks. They're territorial fish that stay put near rocky bottom, so once you find them, you've found them. Best fishing is April through November when they're most active. The meat is sweet and firm - some of the best eating around. Here's the trick: use green crab bait, crush up the shells and legs, then let that scent drift down to trigger a feeding response. Change your bait every 5 minutes or they'll ignore it.
Somers Point, NJ