Montauk Charter Boats - Shark Fishing
When you're looking for that heart-pounding action that only comes from battling apex predators, Lady Grace Sport Fishing Charters delivers the goods right here in Montauk's legendary shark-infested waters. This isn't your typical day of pulling in fluke—we're talking about going toe-to-toe with some of the Atlantic's most powerful fighters. Picture yourself cranking on a 30-pound class rod while a mako goes airborne just 50 yards off your stern, or feeling that slow, heavy pull of a thresher shark making its dive for the depths. With space for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of room to work the fish without bumping elbows, and trust me, when these sharks start running, you'll want all the deck space you can get.
What to Expect on the Water
Your day starts early with a steam out to the productive waters off Montauk Point, where the continental shelf drops into the deep blue that these sharks call home. Captain and crew know these waters like the back of their hands—they've been putting clients on trophy sharks for years, reading the currents, temperature breaks, and bird activity that signal where the action's happening. The vibe on board is all business when it comes to safety and fish-finding, but relaxed enough that first-timers won't feel overwhelmed. You'll spend most of your time in 80-200 feet of water, though don't be surprised if we push out deeper when conditions are right. The boat's equipped with top-shelf electronics to mark bait schools and structure, plus all the heavy tackle you need to handle whatever shows up. Most trips run 6-8 hours, giving you plenty of time to work different spots and techniques until we find what's biting.
Tackle Setup & Techniques
Shark fishing is all about heavy gear and patient presentations. We're talking 50-80 pound class conventional reels spooled with braided line, paired with stout rods that can handle the punishment these fish dish out. The crew rigs everything with circle hooks and wire leaders—this isn't bass fishing, and one wrong move with regular mono will leave you telling stories about "the one that got away." Most of the action happens while drifting with chunked bunker, bluefish, or fresh caught bait. We'll set up a proper chum slick to draw sharks in from miles away, then deploy 4-6 baits at different depths to cover the water column. When a shark picks up your bait, there's no mistaking it—these fish don't nibble. The rod doubles over, line starts screaming off the reel, and suddenly everyone on board is wide awake. Fighting technique matters here: pump and wind, keep steady pressure, and let the drag do its job when the fish makes those bone-jarring runs.
Top Catches This Season
Blue sharks are the bread and butter of Montauk shark fishing, showing up consistently from June through October in good numbers. These sleek, indigo-colored predators typically run 50-150 pounds and are absolute acrobats when hooked. Don't let anyone tell you blues are boring—a 100-pound blue shark will test your tackle and your endurance in ways that'll surprise you. They're curious fish, often circling the boat before committing to a bait, giving everyone a chance to see them in the clear water. Thresher sharks are the holy grail for many anglers, with their distinctive elongated tail fin that's as long as their body. These fish are pure muscle, running anywhere from 75-300 pounds, and they fight deep and dirty. When a thresher grabs your bait, expect a long, grinding battle that'll leave your arms feeling like jelly. Best action typically happens from July through September in deeper water. Shortfin mako sharks represent the ultimate challenge—they're the fastest shark in the ocean and arguably the hardest fighting fish you'll encounter off Montauk. Makos are explosive fighters, known for their spectacular jumps and blistering runs that can strip 200 yards of line in seconds. These torpedo-shaped predators range from 60-400 pounds, with the bigger females showing up in late summer. Landing a mako is a badge of honor that separates casual anglers from serious shark hunters.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you've been thinking about stepping up your fishing game and targeting some serious predators, this charter delivers exactly what you're looking for. Lady Grace Sport Fishing Charters has built their reputation on consistently putting anglers on quality shark action, and their knowledge of Montauk's waters gives you the best shot at hooking into the fish of a lifetime. Whether you're looking to check sharks off your bucket list, introduce experienced anglers to something new, or just want bragging rights at the dock, this trip has it covered. The season's prime time is happening right now, and the bite reports have been solid. Don't wait until the end of season when weather becomes a factor—book your date and get ready for some of the most exciting fishing the Northeast has to offer.