Fishing Charters In Delaware | 4 To 8 Hour Charter Trip
Looking for some serious fishing action along Delaware's coast? Makai Charters has you covered with half-day and full-day trips that put you right where the fish are biting. Captain Larry and his crew know these Mid-Atlantic waters like the back of their hand, and they'll get you on everything from sea bass to mahi-mahi without all the guesswork. Whether you're bringing the family for their first taste of saltwater fishing or you're a seasoned angler chasing your next trophy, these guys make it happen. The boat's dialed in, the gear's top-notch, and you'll be fishing some of the most productive waters on the East Coast.
What to Expect on the Water
Your day starts at the Rehoboth Beach marina where you'll meet Captain Larry and his first mate. These aren't your typical charter operators – they're the kind of crew that preps everything while you grab your coffee, gets your lines reset after every fish, and keeps the action going all day long. The boat's a beauty too, spotless and loaded with quality tackle that can handle whatever's running. You've got options with 4, 6, 8, and 10-hour trips, so whether you want a quick morning session or an all-day fish fest, they've got the timing down. The crew handles all the rigging, bait prep, and line management, so you can focus on what you came for – catching fish. With only 4 anglers max, there's plenty of room to work and everyone gets their shot at the action.
Techniques & Fishing Grounds
Captain Larry runs a mix of bottom fishing and trolling depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding. For the bottom dwellers like sea bass and flounder, you'll be working structure and reefs with circle hooks and fresh bait. The crew knows every wreck, rock pile, and drop-off that holds fish, and they're constantly adjusting based on tides, weather, and what the fish are telling them. When it's time to target pelagics like mahi-mahi and Spanish mackerel, they'll get the trolling spread out with a variety of lures and baits. The boat's rigged with quality rods and reels that can handle everything from finicky flounder to hard-fighting bluefish. Don't worry about bringing tackle – they've got everything you need, though you're welcome to bring your lucky rod if you've got one.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
"Tremendous day! Capt Larry and 1st mate Bill are absolutely the best. They make the trip as easy as possible to manage and definitely set you up for success. The boat is fantastic and in prime condition, extremely clean and very well equipped. These guys have the "feel of the room" for the group and made this an incredible experience for me and my three sons today." - Patrick
"My son and I had a very successful day of fishing. The Capt and first mate took care of all the prep before launching, and during the trip they would reset all of the lines keeping us fully operational immediately after every catch, with bait on hooks and ready for dropping in throughout our 6-hour trip. They brought us to excellent locations and kept us active — the fish were biting all day. The ride out and back in was quick and smooth." - Daniel
"Absolutely fantastic trip. Captain Larry and First Mate Bill made the trip amazing. Lots of fish in the boat. Kept 8 triggerfish and had an incredible dinner back at the rental in Rehoboth. Would 100% recommend!! He ensured the trip was EXACTLY what we were looking for. For a family trip it cannot be beat. I got the distinct impression that if you're an experienced angler he can take you to the next level. Will be back." - Patrick Tate
Top Catches This Season
Mahi-mahi are the crown jewel of Delaware's offshore scene, and when they're around, there's nothing quite like it. These fish are pure muscle and attitude, known for their blazing runs and acrobatic jumps that'll test your tackle and your nerves. They typically show up in late spring through early fall when the water warms up, often hanging around floating debris, weed lines, or structure. What makes mahi so special is their aggressive nature – when you find a school, you can often catch multiple fish before they move off. They're also fantastic table fare, which is why so many anglers specifically target them.
Sea bass are the bread and butter of Delaware fishing, and for good reason. These chunky bottom dwellers are abundant around the local wrecks and reefs, and they're scrappy fighters that'll give you a good tussle on light tackle. They're year-round residents, but spring through fall offers the best action when they're actively feeding. Sea bass are also one of the best eating fish in these waters, with firm white meat that's perfect for the dinner table. The limit allows you to keep a nice mess of them, making it a favorite target for families and anglers looking to fill the cooler.
Spanish mackerel bring speed and excitement to every trip when they're running. These silver bullets are built for speed, with razor-sharp teeth and lightning-fast strikes that'll catch you off guard if you're not ready. They typically show up in summer and early fall, often in schools that can provide non-stop action. What anglers love about Spanish mackerel is their willingness to hit almost anything – trolled spoons, jigs, or live bait. They're also excellent on the grill, with rich, flaky meat that's perfect for fish tacos or simply prepared with some lemon and seasoning.
Southern flounder are the masters of disguise, lying flat on sandy bottoms waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey. These flatfish are prized by anglers not just for their sneaky nature, but for their outstanding table quality – there's