Shark Fishing Charter in Boston
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fullday offshore charter targeting Blue, Mako, Thresher, and Porbeagle sharksAll tackle, bait, and fishing licenses included for groups up to fourCatchandrelease conservation approach with professional photography documentation
If you're ready to test your skills against some of the ocean's most powerful predators, this full-day shark fishing charter from Boston delivers exactly what serious anglers are looking for. Captain and crew at Legit Fish Sport Fishing know these waters like the back of their hands, and they'll put you on fish in the productive shark grounds off Cape Cod. This isn't your typical day on the water – we're talking about hooking into Blue Sharks, Makos, Threshers, and Porbeagles in some of Massachusetts' richest offshore waters. With space for up to four anglers, you'll get personalized attention and plenty of room to work when the bite gets hot.
Your shark fishing adventure starts early at Boston Harbor, where you'll meet your captain and get the rundown on the day ahead. The ride out to the shark grounds gives everyone time to get settled and watch for marine life – whales, dolphins, and seabirds are common sights on the trip offshore. Once we reach the fishing zone, the crew sets up a proper shark spread with multiple lines at different depths. You'll be fishing with heavy tackle designed to handle these apex predators, and everything's included – rods, reels, terminal tackle, bait, and even your fishing license. The boat stays positioned over productive bottom structure and current breaks where sharks actively hunt. When a fish takes the bait, you'll know it immediately – there's no mistaking the powerful run of a shark hitting your line.
Shark fishing requires serious gear, and this charter comes equipped with heavy conventional reels spooled with 80-pound test and wire leaders that can handle razor-sharp teeth. The crew uses a combination of drift fishing and slow trolling techniques, depending on conditions and what species are most active. Fresh bait is key – we're talking chunks of bluefish, mackerel, and other oily fish that create a scent trail sharks can't resist. Multiple lines go out at staggered depths, from surface baits for Makos to deeper presentations for Blues and Porbeagles. Circle hooks are the standard for shark fishing, designed for clean hooksets and easier releases. When you're fighting one of these fish, the captain will coach you through proper pumping and winding techniques to land the shark efficiently while keeping pressure on the fish.
Shortfin Mako Sharks are the speed demons of these waters, capable of hitting 45 mph and launching themselves completely out of the water when hooked. These torpedo-shaped predators average 100-200 pounds in Massachusetts waters, with larger specimens pushing 300+ pounds showing up from June through September. Makos prefer warmer water temps and are often found near the surface, making them perfect targets for live bait presentations. What makes them special is their incredible athleticism – no other shark species puts on an aerial display like a hooked Mako.
Blue Sharks are the most abundant species you'll encounter, and they're absolute fighters despite their slender build. These deep-water nomads can reach 6-8 feet in length and are incredibly curious, often approaching the boat to investigate. Blues are most active from July through October when water temperatures peak. They're known for their beautiful indigo coloration and long pectoral fins. While they might not jump like Makos, Blues make blistering runs and test your endurance with their stamina.
Porbeagle Sharks are the cold-water specialists, thriving in Massachusetts' cooler offshore waters year-round. These stocky, powerful sharks can exceed 200 pounds and are built like miniature Great Whites. Porbeagles are ambush predators that prefer deeper water and structure, making them a prized catch for shark anglers. Their broad shoulders and thick body make them incredibly strong fighters, and they're known for their unpredictable behavior when hooked.
Thresher Sharks are the most unique species you might encounter, instantly recognizable by their extraordinarily long tail fin that can equal their body length. These sharks use their tail like a whip to stun baitfish, making them fascinating to observe. Threshers typically range from 100-300 pounds in these waters and are most common during late summer months. Landing a Thresher is considered a trophy catch due to their relative scarcity and distinctive appearance.
This top-rated shark fishing charter offers an authentic offshore experience that's hard to match anywhere along the East Coast. With all tackle, bait, and licenses included, plus a crew that knows exactly where to find fish, you're getting serious value for a world-class fishing adventure. The catch-photo-release approach means you'll go home with great memories and photos while supporting shark conservation efforts. Space is limited to just four anglers, so trips fill up fast during peak season. Whether you're an experienced offshore angler or looking to try shark fishing for the first time, this charter delivers the real deal. Book your spot with Legit Fish Sport Fishing and get ready to tangle with some of the ocean's most powerful predators right in Boston's backyard.
Prionace GlaucaBlues are the most common shark we encounter out here, and they're absolutely gorgeous - deep blue backs fading to bright white bellies. These sleek predators typically run 7-10 feet and love our deeper waters around 200-1000 feet, where they hunt squid and small fish. They're curious by nature, which makes them great for first-time shark anglers. Summer through early fall is peak season when water temps hit that sweet spot of 60-68°F. What makes them fun? They're aggressive on the bite and put up a solid fight without being too overwhelming. We use drift fishing with a good chum slick - ground mackerel and herring work best. Keep your bait about 20 feet from the boat; blues can get rowdy and you don't want them coming aboard. Circle hooks and 200lb test minimum will handle these beauties.
Lamna NasusPorbeagles are the cold-water cousins of the Mako, built like tanks and just as scrappy. These stocky sharks average 5-7 feet but can push 300+ pounds of pure muscle. Look for the white patch behind their dorsal fin - that's your ID mark. They love our cold New England waters, especially 40-60°F temps in 100-600 feet of depth. Summer brings them closer to shore, making July through September prime time. What draws anglers? They fight like freight trains and actually taste great if you're keeping one within regulations. They're opportunistic hunters that'll steal bait, so don't be surprised if your mackerel disappears fast. Pro tip: use a whole mackerel on heavy tackle and fish it 30-90 feet down. Their abrasive skin cuts light leaders, so go heavy on your wire.
Isurus OxyrinchusThe fastest shark in the ocean, Makos are pure adrenaline on a line. These torpedo-shaped predators average 8-10 feet and pack serious muscle, hitting speeds over 30 mph and launching 20 feet out of the water when hooked. We find them in open water around 100-400 feet deep, especially during summer months when water temps hit 60-70°F. They're aggressive feeders that'll hit live bluefish, mackerel, or squid hard. What makes them special? The fight is legendary - they'll jump, run, and test every knot you've tied. Here's a local tip: when you hook one, keep tension but don't horse it. Let them make their runs and jumps, then work them back steadily. Heavy tackle is a must - 50lb class minimum with wire leaders.
Alopias VulpinusThe tail tells the story with Threshers - it's as long as their body and they use it like a whip to stun baitfish. These unique sharks average 12-16 feet and can hit 500+ pounds, making them one of our most sought-after targets. They prefer open water 40-50 miles out in 50-200 feet, hunting around bait balls during summer months. What makes them special? That tail creates an amazing fight, plus they'll occasionally breach completely out of the water. They're tough to hook because of their small mouths, but once connected, it's game on. Despite their size, they have tiny teeth and feed mainly on schooling fish like mackerel. Here's the key: fish whole sardines or mackerel on 8/0 hooks with heavy braided leaders. Look for bird activity marking baitfish - that's where you'll find Threshers working.
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