Woodbridge Striped Bass & Inshore Half Day Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Sixhour morning charter targets striped bass and seasonal speciesProfessional equipment and first mate assistance included onboardFamilyfriendly trip accommodates all experience levels comfortably
Looking for a solid morning on the water targeting some of New Jersey's best inshore species? This 6-hour AM charter out of Woodbridge Township puts you right in the heart of Raritan Bay's seasonal action. Captain and crew at Miss Behavin' Fishing Charters know these waters like the back of their hands, and they'll put you on fish whether you're a weekend warrior or bringing the kids for their first real fishing trip. We're talking about waters that see serious migrations throughout the year - spring stripers, summer fluke runs, and fall blackfish that'll test your tackle and technique.
This charter runs with a max of 4 anglers, so you're not fighting for rail space or dealing with crowded conditions. The boat heads out early to catch the morning bite when fish are most active, and you'll spend the day working different spots based on what's running. The crew provides all the rods, reels, and terminal tackle - they know what works in these waters and they'll rig you up properly for whatever species you're targeting. Your first mate stays busy keeping everyone rigged up, helping land fish, and cleaning your catch. A cooler's on board for your drinks and snacks, but meals aren't provided so pack accordingly. The mate works hard for tips - 20% is standard and well-deserved when they're baiting hooks, gaffing fish, and filleting your catch.
Depending on the season and target species, you'll be using different techniques throughout the day. Spring striped bass fishing often means working live bait like bunker or herring around structure, or casting plugs and soft plastics when fish are feeding on top. Summer fluke fishing switches to bouncing bucktails with squid strips or fishing live killies in the drift. The crew sets up the tackle based on conditions - heavier sinkers in strong current, lighter rigs when fish are finicky. They'll show you how to feel the bottom, work a jig properly, or set the hook when that striper picks up your bait. Water temperatures here run about 10 degrees cooler than air temp, so layer up even on warm days. Non-spray sunscreen is required - the aerosol stuff damages equipment and creates slippery decks.
Striped bass are the bread and butter from April through mid-June, and Raritan Bay sees some serious fish during the spring migration. These bass range from schoolie size up to keeper fish in the 20-30 inch range, with occasional cows that'll really bend your rod. They're aggressive feeders during this period, moving in schools and often feeding right on the surface when conditions are right. The fight on a striper is what keeps anglers coming back - they make strong runs and put up a real battle right to the boat.
Southern flounder, or summer fluke as locals call them, take over during the warmer months and they're some of the best eating fish in these waters. These flatfish are ambush predators that bury in the sand and mud, waiting to crush anything that swims by. They hit hard and fast, but the real challenge is getting them to the boat - fluke are notorious for shaking hooks right at the surface. A good fluke bite means steady action and a cooler full of dinner. The bigger females, called "doormat" fluke, can top 5-6 pounds and provide some serious bragging rights.
Black sea bass round out the target species list and they're available during different parts of the season. These bottom dwellers hang around structure and they're scrappy fighters for their size. Sea bass have great table fare and they're often willing biters when you find them on the right spots. They school up tight, so when you hook one, there are usually more down there waiting. The regulations on sea bass change seasonally, but the crew stays current on all the rules and size limits.
Miss Behavin' Fishing Charters runs a top-rated operation that fills up fast, especially during peak season. This half-day format works perfect for families or anglers who want to sample the fishing without committing to a full day. The morning bite is often the most productive time anyway, and you'll be back at the dock with time to clean fish and plan your next trip. The small group size means personalized attention from the crew and better fishing for everyone on board. Whether you're after your first striper, looking to fill the cooler with fluke, or just want to get the kids hooked on saltwater fishing, this charter delivers the goods. The Raritan Bay fishery is world-class, and having local knowledge puts fish in the boat when other anglers struggle. Book your date now and get ready for some serious New Jersey inshore action.
This 27-foot Grady White center console is your ticket to productive fishing in Raritan Bay's rich waters. Built tough for New Jersey's inshore conditions, she handles everything from spring striped bass runs to summer fluke action with ease. The spacious deck gives you and up to 4 fellow anglers plenty of room to work the waters, while the onboard fish finder helps locate schools and structure where the fish are holding. We've got you covered with quality rods, reels, and lures, plus an icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold during the 6-hour trip. The wireless trolling motor lets us move quietly through productive areas without spooking fish, while GPS and radar keep us on course and safe. When nature calls, there's a private head onboard so you never have to cut the fishing short. Whether you're targeting stripers during their spring migration or chasing blackfish in late fall, this boat puts you right where the action is in Woodbridge waters.
Centropristis StriataSea bass are stocky, hard-fighting fish that love hanging around structure. Most of what we catch runs 2-4 pounds, though the bigger males can push 8+ pounds and sport a distinctive hump on their heads during spawning. They're dark gray to black with white-centered scales that catch the light. Summer is prime time when they gather around wrecks, jetties, and rocky bottom in less than 120 feet of water. What makes them fun? They hit hard, fight dirty near structure, and taste fantastic - firm, sweet meat that's perfect for the dinner table. Families love them because they're aggressive feeders that'll make kids' rods bend. Here's the local secret: use squid strips on a high-low rig and fish right on bottom near any hard structure you can find.
Paralichthys LethostigmaThese flatfish are masters of disguise, lying camouflaged on sandy and muddy bottoms waiting to ambush prey. Most run 15-18 inches and around 5 pounds, perfect for a good dinner. Both eyes sit on their left side, giving them that unique "doormat" look that makes kids laugh every time. They're found in shallow coastal waters, especially around structure where small fish and crabs gather. Summer months are prime time when they move into the bay to feed. What guests love most is the surprise factor - you never know when that gentle tap becomes a solid hookup. The meat is incredibly sweet and flaky, some of the best eating you'll find. Pro tip: use light tackle and let your bait sit still on bottom - patience pays off with these ambush predators.
Morone SaxatilisStripers are the crown jewel of our spring fishing here in Raritan Bay. These silver-sided beauties with their distinctive black stripes can reach 20-40 pounds, though we see plenty in the teens that still pack a serious punch. They migrate through our waters from April through mid-June, following baitfish like bunker and herring into the shallows. What makes them special? They're powerful fighters that'll test your drag and make long runs. Plus, they're excellent eating with sweet, flaky white meat. Around here, focus on structure - bridges, jetties, and drop-offs where they ambush prey. My local tip: watch for diving birds early morning - that's where the feeding action is happening.
Woodbridge Township, NJ