Woodbridge Striped Bass & Inshore Half Day Charter
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.
What to Expect on the Water
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.
Techniques & Tackle Setup
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.
Top Catches This Season
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.
Time to Book Your Spot
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.