Next AvailableJun 24
Book with Mark Rowell
Legit Fish Sportfishing
Identity Verified Scituate MA
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Mark Rowell, Captain at Legit Fish Sportfishing
Identity VerifiedFor a one-of-a-kind fishing experience on the South Shore, step aboard the “Legit Fish” with Master USCG Licensed Captain, Mark Rowell and crew, to experience inshore fishing charters or extreme offshore fishing charters from Scituate, Massachusetts!
Captain Mark Rowell & the Legit Fish Sportfishing team is the perfect choice for serious Boston and Cape Cod charter fishing in style. Your charter can fit up to six anglers--for Bluefin Tuna / Shark Trips, the Captain recommends a limit of 4 guests--or book a custom charter for large groups with multiple boats. On board the brand new Catamaran fishing vessel, you’ll find a full marine head for guests, multimedia system, top-notch Gramin navigational electronics, live well, and 2 Icom VHF radio. All USCG safety equipment is provided to ensure your trip is safe and secure.
Legit Fish Sportfishing specializes in high-adventure inshore and offshore trips for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Trip options include jigging for ground fish off Stellwagen Bank, such as spring Haddock, and early summer inshore trips that target striped bass, bluefish, bluefin tuna and shark, or, the deep sea adventurer can book a full Tuna fishing charter and head miles offshore for some action-packed fishing fun.
More seasonal options include:
May-June: Flounder, Striped Bass Seabass, Haddock, Pollock, Mackerel
May-October: Striped Bass, Bluefish
Late May-November: Jigging and Popping Bluefin Tuna
July-September: Offshore and Canyon Fishing – Yellowfin, Big Eye, Mahi, Blue Fin, Swordfish, Marlin
August-September: Gait Bluefin Tuna, Shark, Bonito, False Albacore (Inshore tuna)
October/November: Fall Tautog(blackfish), Sea bass
Secure your spot today and get ready for a fishing adventure like nothing you've experienced before with Legit Fish Sportfishing!
Highlights
Years of experience to help experienced anglers catch trophies.
100% of people would recommend them to a friend.
Upcoming Availability
Expertise & Attributes
fishing
Deep Sea Fishing
Drift Fishing
Good with Families
Live Bait
Master Guide
Saltwater Fishing
Technical FishingFishing Techniques
What's Included
Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
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Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
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What's Included
Good to Knows
Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.
Show More
Nature / Wildlife Views
This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.
Cancellation Policy
When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.
Show More
Trips Available with Legit Fish Sportfishing
Fishing
Starting At $1,250
Private Full-Day Bluefin Tuna Fishing Trip
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: For anglers seeking an unforgettable offshore adventure, this Cape Cod fishing charter offers the ultimate challenge—battling powerful Bluefin Tuna. The trip takes you miles offshore to Stellwagen Bank, a world-renowned hotspot for these massive fish. Known for their strength and endurance, Bluefin Tuna provide a true test of skill and determination. This charter is ideal for up to four anglers looking for a thrilling deep-sea fishing experience. Fishing licenses are included, so pack your food and drinks for the journey. Get ready for an action-packed day targeting one of the ocean’s most prized catches!
Fishing
Starting At $450
Private 4 Hour Inshore Fishing | Daytona Beach And Ponce Inlet
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: BackCountry
Fishing Boat:
Shortfin • 18' Mako • Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)Description: Experience the thrill of fishing Florida’s East Coast with Captain Mark Haley, an expert guide for both novice and seasoned anglers. Whether you're looking for a laid-back trip or a challenging battle, Captain Mark will tailor the adventure to your skill level. Fish for redfish, snook, tarpon, sandbar sharks, and spinner sharks in prime inshore and nearshore waters. All rods, reels, and terminal tackle are provided—just bring your enthusiasm! Call now for open dates, rates, and booking details!
Fishing
Starting At $700
Private No Live Bait Needed Fishing Trip
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)Description: No Live Bait Needed Swimbaits, Jigheads, Softplastics Looking to catch your first striper from the boat? Casting to stripers using a light spinning outfit. Or, want to catch stripers more consistently? Our half day trips are a great way to spend some quality time on the water, and give us the opportunity to target striped bass, with No Live Bait
Fishing
Starting At $1,275
Private Bluefin Tuna Fishing Trip | Jigging and Popping
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Capacity:
Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)Description: Throwing poppers to striped bass and bluefish is a lot of fun. However, watching a Bluefin tuna explode on your popper ramps things up to a totally different level. With tuna fishing being fantastic over the last few years, a new breed of fisherman has emerged. • 4 qty. Angler Max • Advanced Anglers Tuna Jigg & Popping is one of the most exciting ways to fish • 4 Max Advanced Anglers
Fishing
Starting At $1,200
Private 7-Hour Groundfish Fishing | Weekdays
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Kick off the New England fishing season with an exciting trip to Stellwagen Bank, one of the top fishing grounds for Haddock. Anglers can keep up to 12 Haddock per person, measuring 17 inches or longer, making this a productive and rewarding trip. Departing at 6 AM, this charter includes rods, reels, and bait, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With a knowledgeable captain and first mate on board, you'll receive expert guidance and assistance throughout the trip. Cleaning and filleting services are also provided, so don’t forget to bring a cooler for your fresh catch. This trip is priced for five anglers, with space for a sixth passenger.
Fishing
Starting At $650
Private 4-Hour Stone Ledge Ground Fish
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Experience an action-packed bottom fishing trip on Stone Ledge, perfect for anglers of all ages and skill levels. This 4-hour morning or afternoon trip targets Cod, Haddock, and Pollock in the productive waters of Massachusetts Bay. Limited to six passengers, this trip is a great way to enjoy time on the water without committing to a full day. Fishing licenses are included, and pricing covers five anglers, with space for a sixth. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned angler, this nearshore adventure offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Fishing
Starting At $1,250
Private Full-Day Offshore Fishing Trip | Weekdays
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Head up to 40 miles offshore for an unforgettable fishing trip targeting Bluefin Tuna, Sharks, Striped Bass, and Bluefish. Customize your trip based on your fishing goals, whether you're chasing powerful Tuna, battling Sharks, or reeling in trophy-sized Stripers and Bluefish. If you choose to chum for Sharks, a $30 surcharge may apply. This exclusive weekday fishing adventure runs Monday through Thursday, offering anglers a chance to experience the deep waters with expert guidance. All necessary gear is provided—just bring your food, drinks, and a sense of adventure!
Fishing
Starting At $1,250
Private Full-Day Offshore Fishing Trip | Weekends
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Explore the rich waters up to 40 miles offshore on this action-packed fishing trip. Target Bluefin Tuna, Sharks, Striped Bass, and Bluefish while experiencing some of the best deep-sea fishing in the area. Whether you're after hard-fighting Tuna or looking to test your skills against powerful Sharks, this trip offers a thrilling experience for anglers of all levels. A $30 surcharge may apply for chumming Sharks. Running from Friday to Sunday, this charter provides expert guidance, top-quality gear, and an unforgettable day on the water. Bring food, drinks, and get ready for an incredible offshore fishing trip!
Fishing
Starting At $850
Private 6-Hour Striper and Blues Fishing | Weekdays
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: For anglers looking to maximize their time on the water, this extended trip offers the perfect opportunity to target Striped Bass and aim for a personal best. Set out to Race Point, a prime location known for its productive Striper fishing. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, this trip provides a rewarding experience with plenty of action and a delicious catch to take home. Ideal for families and corporate outings, it’s a great way to enjoy quality time on the water while reeling in one of the region’s most sought-after fish.
Fishing
Starting At $1,100
Private Full-Day Stripers and Blues Fishing | Weekends
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: This fishing trip is a top choice for families and corporate groups looking for an exciting day on the water. You'll head out to Race Point, home to some of the most productive Striped Bass fishing spots in the region. Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, this trip offers a fun-filled experience with plenty of action. Tackle is provided for up to six anglers, making it easy to enjoy a hassle-free outing. Available from Friday to Sunday, this adventure is the perfect way to spend quality time outdoors while targeting one of the area's most prized fish.
Fishing
Starting At $1,250
Private Full-Day Shark Fishing Trip
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Offshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: If landing a powerful shark is on your bucket list, this trip offers an incredible opportunity to battle some of the ocean’s most sought-after predators. The waters off Cape Cod are known for consistent shark fishing, with Blue Sharks being the most common, along with potential encounters with Mako, Thresher, and Porbeagle Sharks. Sharks are typically photographed and released to ensure conservation. You may even spot a Great White, so keep your camera ready! This charter is perfect for five anglers looking for an unforgettable day on the water. Fishing licenses are included—just bring your own food, drinks, and non-slip shoes.
Fishing
Starting At $1,250
Private Full-Day Groundfish Fishing | Weekends
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Wrecks
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Join an exciting fishing trip targeting fresh, delicious Cod, along with a variety of other groundfish species. This is a prime season to reel in quality catches, making it a great opportunity for anglers who want to take home fresh fillets. The trip includes up to seven hours on the water, with all rods, reels, and tackle provided for a hassle-free experience. Running from Friday to Sunday, this guided charter offers a productive day of fishing with expert assistance. Whether you're an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, this trip promises a rewarding experience with plenty of action.
Fishing
Starting At $650
Private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip
Fishing Area: Boston
Fishing: Inshore
Fishing Boat:
Legit Fish • 30' Contender • Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)Description: Discover world-class Striped Bass fishing at Race Point with Captain Mark and crew. These trips offer exciting opportunities to reel in trophy bass and hard-fighting Bluefish. Choose from 4-hour, 6-hour, or 8-hour trips, making it easy to fit fishing into any schedule. Perfect for families, beginners, and experienced anglers alike, these charters provide a fun and productive day on the water. Fishing licenses are included, and the trip covers up to five anglers. Bring your food and drinks to stay energized as you experience Cape Cod’s incredible fishery!
Vehicles
Legit Fish
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
31 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Albemarle
Model Year:
2005
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Caterpillar
# of Engines:
2
Horsepower Per Engine:
350
Maximum Cruising Speed:
40
Features: First Mate Bait Tank Outriggers Tuna Tubes Flybridge Bed Kitchen Shower Toilet Air Condition Ice-Box Multimedia System Refrigerator Television Fish Finder GPS Radar VHF Radio
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Legit Fish
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
29 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Southport
Model Year:
2006
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Yamaha
# of Engines:
2
Horsepower Per Engine:
250
Maximum Cruising Speed:
35
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Netminder
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
17 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Parker
Model Year:
2000
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Evinrude
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
115
Maximum Cruising Speed:
50
Features: Bait Tank Trolling Motor Fish Finder GPS VHF Radio
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Shortfin
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
18 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Mako
Model Year:
2017
Engine Manufacturer Name:
mercury
# of Engines:
1
Horsepower Per Engine:
90
Maximum Cruising Speed:
45
Features: Bait Tank Ice-Box Fish Finder GPS VHF Radio
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Shortfin is a Mako 18lts favorite among ardent inshore anglers who want a fast, shallow-drafting boat that's equally at home in the flats or the bay. "Shortfin fishies out of Ponce inlet Masuoide lagoon florida. give us a call to make a revision or more info"
Legit Fish
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
30 ft
Manufacturer Name:
Contender
Model Year:
2008
Engine Manufacturer Name:
Yamaha
# of Engines:
2
Horsepower Per Engine:
260
Maximum Cruising Speed:
50
Features: First Mate Bait Tank Tuna Tubes Toilet Ice-Box Television Fish Finder GPS Radar VHF Radio
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Contender 30' vessel is swift, smooth and efficient to get you out off the the Bay in not time! Outfitter with the latest equipment, you will have a blast fishing and seeing the data flow in as you cruise the Atlantic.
Boats
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Legit Fish
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
31 ft
Vehicle Details
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Legit Fish
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
29 ft
Vehicle Details
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Netminder
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
2
Boat Length:
17 ft
Vehicle Details
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Shortfin
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
3
Boat Length:
18 ft
Vehicle Details
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Legit Fish
Boat Type:
Boat Guest Capacity:
6
Boat Length:
30 ft
Vehicle Details
FAQs about Legit Fish Sportfishing
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What's included in the trip price with Legit Fish Sportfishing?
What types of fishing does Legit Fish Sportfishing offer?
What fishing techniques does Legit Fish Sportfishing offer?
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What is the cancellation policy for Legit Fish Sportfishing?
Reports and Expert Articles
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"Striped Bass Slam on Cape Cod with Legit Fish Sportfishing"
Action-packed day from the get-go! I took ANTHONY and their crew out on the water with Legit Fish Sportfishing for a half-day trip targeting stripers and blues along the Cape Cod National Seashore. The weather was perfect, with clear conditions throughout the day. With our gear rigged and ready, we started the morning off strong, working the bait and live lining techniques in the Provincetown area. The striped bass were really active, and we managed to land a few nice keepers, including a 27-inch beauty. The surf casting proved to be especially productive, with the crew getting in on the action. We wrapped up the trip with great time and smiles all around! If you're thinking about coming out to chase some of the best striped bass fishing on the East Coast, Legit Fish Sportfishing's Half Day – Stripers & Blues (AM) trip is the way to go. Our experienced guides know these waters like the back of their hand and will put you on the fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable time. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip with us today and get ready for an action-packed day on the water!
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"Scituate Stripers & Blues Deliver Epic Catch with Legit Fish"
What a great day on the water, couldn't ask for more action! I took Rich out for a private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip with Legit Fish Sportfishing, and we had a blast. We met up at the Bulman Marine at The Waterfront Club in Scituate, Plymouth County, on a partly cloudy September morning around 6:00 am. Once the stage was set, we got to work targeting the Striped Bass using a variety of techniques like bottom fishing, live-lining, and jigging. The conditions were perfect, and the fish were really active. We managed to land a nice 33-inch Striped Bass, which was the highlight of the trip. It put up a great fight and was a real trophy. If you're thinking about coming out for a 4-Hour to 8-Hour Cape Cod Striped Bass & Bluefish Fishing Adventure with Legit Fish Sportfishing, I can't recommend it enough. The team is knowledgeable, the gear is top-notch, and the fishing is simply outstanding. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting started, you're sure to have an amazing time on the water with us. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and let's go catch some fish!
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Bass
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters and crew were in the midst of jigging up mackerel just inside state waters when they saw the fins. A school of stripers up to 51” was also there looking for a mack snack. As is often the case when in open water, the fish were fussy, but the captain came stealthily prepared with 20-pound fluorocarbon leaders at the ready. That’s pretty flimsy stuff for fish of that size, but the captain said that the new bow-to-stern Daiwa gear he’s packing was more than up to the task. "on the Water"
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Striped Bass and Bluefish Fishing Frenzy at Scituate, MA
Today was a great day out on the water with Sylvain on our Private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip at Scituate, MA. June is a prime time for inshore fishing in these parts, with striped bass and bluefish becoming more active as the waters warm up. The weather was partly cloudy throughout the day, but the conditions were otherwise excellent - the water was in great shape, and there was a nice breeze to keep things comfortable. We had a full arsenal of techniques at the ready, gearing up with a mix of deep-sea, jigging, trolling, bait-casting, heavy tackle, kite fishing, light tackle, and drift fishing setups. Sylvain was eager to get after it, and we wasted no time getting the lines in the water. The early bite was a bit slow, but we kept working different areas and presentations until we started to find some fish. It wasn't long before we started getting into some nice stripers and blues, with the fish hitting our baits and lures with authority. The action kept us busy, but we still had plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and camaraderie out on the water. Between the steady catches, we'd swap fishing stories, talk strategy, and take in the sights of the Scituate coastline. It's those little moments that make a day on the water so special - not just the number of fish, but the overall experience of being out on the water with good company. If you're looking to get in on the inshore action at Scituate, MA, I'd highly recommend booking a Private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip with Legit Fish Sportfishing. Whether you're an experienced angler chasing trophy-sized fish or a newcomer looking to get your feet wet, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. From setting you up with the right gear and techniques to putting you on the fish, we'll handle all the details so you can focus on having a blast. So don't wait - reach out and let's get you booked for your own Cape Cod fishing adventure!
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Bass moving in.
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters told me that once the seas settled down and rivers flushed out the “Yoohoo” colored water stripers returned to the North River. Mackerel remain hit-or-miss among inshore ledges, but when found are the perfect snack for river bass. Drifting on an outgoing tide by the Fourth Cliff has been especially good. The skipper’s gut tells him that haddock should be moving along the northeast rim of Stellwagen and just maybe onto the Middle Bank. On Sunday, he intends to find out. "On the Water"
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Fall for something fake
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been putting most of his effort into the North River as slots pound alewives with focal points where the main river meets up with the herring river tributaries. The skipper did say that the crew is spotting far larger specimens blasting the herring which are reluctant to fall for something fake. "on the Water"
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Shortfin Mako shark Fishing
Daytona Beach Florida open Dates this winter (1 hr from Disney) if anyone is heading south this winter Jan 10, 11, 12. Feb 16,-21 (speed week) April 19-26 (Jeep Beach week ) Nearshore and Backwater charter targeting Shortfin Mako shark!
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Cows are on the move
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters corroborated the news that cows are on the move along the SW corner of Stellwagen Bank. What just might be pausing their movements is the swarms of tinker mackerel which can be found throughout the bank. Anglers having luck with tuna are passing on the tiny bait in favor of whiting. Sharp-eyed tuna no doubt can spot a hooked tinker but are less likely to notice a hook buried in the bigger bait. That philosophy paid off for the crew, which on Middlebank brought a beast of a bluefin boatside the other day. There are plenty of haddock out there but as for cod, ledge, rocks, wrecks within 5 miles of the shoreline are a better bet. You can put those tinker mackerel to good use in the North River for stripers running between 24-40”! The key is moving water with diminishing returns during slack. I also received a tip from Bill Hurley that cookie cutter schoolies could not resist the Hurley stick bait in the South River on Thursday with the bite lasting until mid-day. "on the water"
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Speedsters leave a wake
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been shaking things up beyond the South Shore while taking charters out to fish for false albacore and Spanish mackerel in the Craigsvillle Beach area in Nantucket Sound. There have been no shortage of bass and blues occupying cleanup duty as those southern speedsters leave a wake of injured/dead bay anchovies in their wake. Locally the skippers pick is the North River where the bait buffet of baby bunker, herring fry and tinker mackerel are keeping stripers in check. Squid are swarming throughout Stellwagen with the SW corner chock full of Charlie in the 60” category. " on the water"
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Cleanup Duty
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been shaking things up beyond the South Shore while taking charters out to fish for false albacore and Spanish mackerel in the Craigsvillle Beach area in Nantucket Sound. There have been no shortage of bass and blues occupying cleanup duty as those southern speedsters leave a wake of injured/dead bay anchovies in their wake. Locally the skippers pick is the North River where the bait buffet of baby bunker, herring fry and tinker mackerel are keeping stripers in check. Squid are swarming throughout Stellwagen with the SW corner chock full of Charlie in the 60” category. "on the water"
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Hard bottom = COD!
“Hard bottom” within 3 miles of much of the South Shore is holding cod according to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters. The conundrum is that the shallower structure is more likely to give up smaller rock cod while “white bellies” up to 35” are falling for clams between 2 1/2-5 miles once Scituate Harbor is cleared. Blues and bass have been busting peanut bunker all across the South Shore from Plymouth to Peggotty Beach. The North River has been noteworthy as well as has the Cliffs. The acquisition of mackerel is not a problem as they can be found among inshore eddies and upwellings in as little as 40’. Some major bluefin can be found in the SW Corner of Stellwagen Bank but you can expect company because the word is out. You’re not likely to find Captain Rowell among the fleet as he has his sites on Charlie in the same Cape Cod Bay areas he’s finding cod!
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sharks and more sharks
Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters out of Scituate said that sharks have been taking a liking to his boat! The other day he had a monster blue shark that kept bumping his engines, worrying the captain that it might take a chomp out of them. While floating a mackerel for Charlie, a thresher shark kept thumping the balloons with its massive tail. There’s good reason to deal with the occasional toothy nuisance however as “jumpers” that look to be grander giants have been observed chasing halfbeaks. Not all has been sideshows as haddock continue to cooperate halfway between port in Scituate Harbor and Stellwagen Bank. It’s tempting for the captain to just stay in port with all the striper-on-peanut bunker action in the harbor. While most would think that the five Bs – bass, blues, bonito, black sea bass, and blackfish – would be enough to satisfy, Captain Jason Colby keeps trying to give his crew a little more. Soon that will include the cornucopia of critters which call Coxes Ledge home – especially cod! In addition to the very real prospects of finding cod, it’s also nice to know that as of September 1st in the Southern New England area anglers will be able to keep up to 5 cod at a minimum of 23”. Get your arsenal of jigs ready! "on the water" "on the water"
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Rude tuna
I’ve heard many an adjective used to describe tuna but never until now the word – rude! That was just the description used by Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters to portray pelagics which have been engulfing haddock at boat side. When those tanks have not dispatched his catch, the catching has been quite good with 10 fish per person outings common. The bite remains impressive halfway between Scituate Harbor and Stellwagen. File this one away for the open season of September 1st- white-bellied cod are gathering around rocks and wrecks within 3 miles of the shoreline. Blitzes in the Three Bays, Scituate Harbor and numerous other locations have become a reality as peanut bunker have arrived. Three-inch white/pearl paddletials will catch what can be fussy feeds for those not matching the hatch. "on the water"
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Sizable schools of super-sized striped bass
It’s been looking like a boat show over much of the South Shore with sizable schools of super-sized striped bass pounding pogies. Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters sent me a video of a scene just beyond his backdoor that looked like a mooring field as boat after boat jockeyed for position over pogy schools. The mob of menhaden as well as their pursuers have been moving back and forth from Plymouth through Scituate with no rhyme or reason as to where they will appear next. I guess something can be said for an even playing field. Manomet Point has been mentioned as one of the more consistent spots with honorable mention going to White Cliff. The bass on the bunker are beasts with most begin caught on what drew the predators in – pogies. While interesting, the captain has been steering clear of the flotilla and taking a short sprint out to Stone Ledge where he’s been limiting out on haddock in record time. The fish are there for small shrimp and sand eels making 3” pink/white Gulp lethal. While in the can’t-touch-this-status until September, cod on higher sections of the ledges are numerous and impressive. The sweet spot for the haddock is 200’, while the cod are shallower in about 185’. "On The Water"
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Real Gators
While Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters did not have a halibut make mince meat out of any groundffish this week, he did encounter a different sort of toothy fish in deep water. Big blues, which have largely been absent from Massbay so far, were falling for mackerel intended for a certain extra large flatfish. According to Mark those blues were real gators and found by Stone Ledge. Maybe this could be the first wave of more of a bluefish presence across our coast. The haddock bite has been good from Stellwagen Bank through Cape Cod Bay with the sweet spot 200’ of water. "on the water"
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Signature chomp of a halibut
Anyone who knows Captain Mark Rowell knows that the Legit Fish Charters skipper is a practitioner of the calm, cool, collective mindset. That resolve was sorely tested on Sunday when he put a charter in position to land the fish of a lifetime – a monster Atlantic halibut! Mark is no stranger to landing the world’s largest flatfish, so when he pegs the weight at 200 pounds that estimate is – legit! The venue was Stone Ledge, the quarry was haddock but the captain and the crew were ready for the ever-present prospects of hooking into something far larger. In between a good pick of haddock and off-season market cod, one of the anglers came up with a cod and en eviscerated whiting on one of the rigs. While some might blame a shark for the damage done to the whiting, Mark immediately recognized the signature chomp of a halibut. His hunch was confirmed by live imaging on his Lawrence electronics which had the captain and first mate struggling to catch their breath. broken rod This broken rod and tattered braid was all that was left from a duel with a monster halibut aboard Legit Fish. The captain immediately dropped the half a whiting towards the bottom when the rod bent and shook from the weight of what he knew was the halibut. His Contender is equipped with conventional gear suited for such warfare and while it took a while, the captain and mate were well on their way towards landing that halibut when the rod was passed among the patrons on board. The barn door sized halibut was but a few feet away with Mark at the ready with a harpoon when one of the crew grabbed the top of the rod causing it to break. The broken blank was bad enough, but the resulting fraying of the 80 pound braid as they still tried to land the fish proved lethal. The reaction of most captains after losing such a fish would have been loud enough to jam nearby GPS units but Mark gave a typical “meh, we’ll get ‘em next time” shrug. That next time may be soon enough because Mark has on good authority that that fish was not alone! Just maybe best of all, those beasts are within 7 miles of the shoreline! "on the water"
Ratings & Reviews Summary
June 24, 2025
Great morning on the water
June 24, 2025
I went on a charter with a friend and 4 teenage boys. Everyone had a great time and the boys are asking to go again. Their knowledge of the surrounding waters is incredible and know exactly what to do in order to put you on the fish. We will definitely be booking again.
June 24, 2025
Captain Mark is the best captain on the south shore. Works hard and will put you on fish for sure
June 24, 2025
Captain Mark is the best of the best! This man invests all of his time and efforts into making sure you have the best day on the water! Legit Fish is the ONLY Big game fishing charter in Boston you will ever need to book.
June 24, 2025
there is not enough star;s on here for my review.i need 10 stars for reviews i have been fishing for 50 years from costa rica to belize jamaica/as well as cabo san lucas/and the Bahamas /key west /Marathon key and all the great fresh water lakes and rivers, so i,m no puppy so on this note i have found Captain mark to be on the top of his game by far one of the best fishing Captains i have had / i don't do many reviews but anglers need to know each time i have been on this boat has been a great experience. i would recommend this guy to everyone but i;m afraid there wont be any more openings for me
June 24, 2025
WOW! What an experience these guys provided! I was taken out on Legit Fish for my bachelor party yesterday, on my bucket list was to go shark fishing. My brother and friends did their researching to make it happen and I can honestly say I'm pretty sure they pick the best charter fishing boat you could go on. Mark and Danny were great, and from the beginning just had this confidence and knowledge that made you feel like you were on the right boat. Mark even generously called us the day before our original trip and warned us of rough seas and gave us the option to go out the next day. He could have easily just taken our money and taken us out in rough seas fishing. They had us on the fish within minutes of putting the boat in neutral for fishing. and on a shark within about an hour of fishing. By the end of the trip it felt like these guys felt like friends to our entire group. I know for a fact that there will be a return trip next year, and maybe annually with Mark and Danny. Thank you for one heck of an experience!
