New Jersey Weekend Fishing Charter - 7 Hours
Looking for a solid weekend fishing trip off the Jersey coast? Our shared 7-hour charter puts you right in the action targeting some of the area's most popular game fish. With rod rental included in your weekend rate, you just need to show up ready to fish. We're going after striped bass, bluefish, and whatever else is biting depending on the season. Fair warning though - this shared trip only runs when we hit 14 anglers total, so rally your crew and spread the word. The boat leaves on time, so plan to be at the dock 45 minutes early on weekends. Trust me, you don't want to watch us pull away from the pier.
What to Expect on the Water
This isn't some rushed half-day trip where you barely get your lines wet. Seven hours gives us real time to work the productive spots along the New Jersey coastline and adjust our game plan based on what's happening out there. We'll start the morning hitting structure where stripers like to ambush baitfish, then move around based on what we're seeing on the fish finder. The shared boat setup means you'll fish alongside other weekend warriors - some regulars who know these waters well, and others getting their first taste of Jersey inshore fishing. Our crew knows where the fish are holding and will keep you on them throughout the day. Expect to cover some water as we chase the bite, and don't be surprised if we end up working tide rips, humps, or along the beach depending on conditions.
Techniques & Tackle
We fish these waters with a mix of live bait and artificials, adjusting our approach based on what the fish want that day. Rod rental comes with your weekend rate, so you're set with quality gear that can handle everything from schoolie bass to bigger bluefish. We'll have you working with circle hooks and live bunker when the bass are being picky, or throwing metal and soft plastics when they're actively feeding on top. The crew will get you dialed in on the right technique - whether that's dropping baits to the bottom around structure or casting to breaking fish. We keep a good selection of terminal tackle and fresh bait on board, plus backup rods ready to go. The Jersey inshore bite can change quick, so being able to switch from bait fishing to casting artificials keeps you in the game all day.
Top Catches This Season
Striped bass are the crown jewel of New Jersey inshore fishing, and for good reason. These fish are smart, strong, and will test your skills every time you hook up. Jersey stripers run from schoolies in the 18-24 inch range all the way up to trophy fish pushing 40+ pounds. Spring and fall migrations bring the best action, but we see keeper bass throughout the fishing season. They love structure - wrecks, reefs, and drop-offs where they can corner baitfish. What makes striped bass so addictive is their fight - they'll make multiple runs, shake their heads, and keep you honest right to the net. Plus, they're excellent table fare when prepared right.
Bluefish bring a completely different energy to your day on the water. These aggressive predators hit hard and fight dirty, often showing up in schools that create some of the most exciting fishing you'll find off New Jersey. Blues range from "snapper" size (great for kids and light tackle) up to chopper blues that can exceed 15 pounds. Summer months typically offer the hottest bluefish action, and when you find a feeding school, it's game on. They'll hit just about anything you throw at them - metals, plugs, or chunks of bunker. Fair warning - they've got razor-sharp teeth, so the crew will handle the unhooking. Bluefish are also fantastic eating when they're fresh, especially the smaller ones.
Time to Book Your Spot
Seven hours on the water targeting New Jersey's best inshore species with tackle included - that's solid value for a weekend charter. Remember, we need 14 anglers to make this shared trip happen, so don't wait too long to secure your spot. Weekend slots fill up, especially during prime fishing season. Show up 45 minutes early, bring your cooler for the catch, and get ready for a day of quality fishing with Queen Mary Open Boat & Charters. The Jersey coast is loaded with fish, and we know where to find them.