Half Day Flounder Fishing in NYC Waters
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fourhour inshore flounder fishing with Captain Tom Lacognata.All bait, tackle, and guidance included aboard 36' Luhrs.Accommodates up to six guests with first mate assistance.
When you're looking for quality inshore fishing without burning a whole day, Captain Tom Lacognata's half-day flounder trips hit the sweet spot. Working the productive waters around New York City, Tom knows exactly where these flatfish hang out and how to put you on them. His 36' Luhrs gives you plenty of room to fish comfortably while staying close enough to shore that you're back at the dock in Brooklyn by early afternoon. Whether you're bringing the kids for their first real fishing trip or you're an experienced angler wanting to fill the cooler, this four-hour window delivers solid action without the commitment of a full-day charter.
Your trip starts at 3260 Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn, where you'll meet Captain Tom and his first mate who'll be working with you throughout the day. The 36' Luhrs is set up specifically for inshore work – modern electronics to mark fish and structure, plus enough deck space for up to four anglers to fish without getting tangled up in each other's lines. Tom provides all your bait and tackle, so you don't need to worry about rigging up or figuring out what the fish are hitting. The first mate is there to help with everything from baiting hooks to netting fish, and like most charter operations, they work for tips – 20% of your fare is the standard if you're happy with the service. The whole setup is designed to keep things relaxed and productive, whether you're a complete beginner or you know your way around a fishing rod.
Flounder fishing in NYC waters is all about working the bottom where these flatfish spend their time. Captain Tom uses a combination of drift fishing and anchored setups depending on conditions and where the fish are holding. You'll be fishing with traditional high-low rigs and bucktails tipped with strips of squid, spearing, or killie – whatever's working that day. The key is keeping your bait right on the bottom where flounder feed, and Tom's got the local knowledge to put you over the right structure and depth changes that hold fish. The first mate will show you how to feel the subtle tap-tap of a flounder mouthing your bait – it's different from other species and takes a bit of practice to recognize. Once you get the hang of it, you'll start connecting with these tasty flatfish that make for excellent table fare.
Southern Flounder are the main target on these trips, and they're one of the best eating fish you'll find in local waters. These flatfish are perfectly adapted for life on the bottom – both eyes migrate to one side of their head as they mature, and they can change color to match the sand and mud they're sitting on. In NYC waters, you'll typically find flounder ranging from keeper size around 14 inches up to nice doormat fish pushing 20+ inches and several pounds. Spring and fall are prime time for flounder fishing here, when they're moving through the area on their seasonal migrations. Summer can also produce well, especially early morning trips before the boat traffic picks up. What makes flounder so popular with anglers isn't just their reputation as table fare – they're also a species that beginners can catch with some basic instruction, while still providing enough challenge to keep experienced fishermen interested. The bigger fish have a tendency to mouth the bait and require some patience to hook properly, and there's always the chance of connecting with a true trophy fish that'll make your day memorable.
Captain Tom's half-day flounder trips offer exactly what most anglers are looking for – quality fishing time with a knowledgeable local captain who knows how to find fish and put you on them. The four-hour window gives you enough time to work different spots and techniques without feeling rushed, but still gets you back to shore with time to clean your catch and enjoy the rest of your day. With all tackle and bait included, plus hands-on instruction from the crew, it's set up for success whether you're introducing someone new to fishing or just want to get out on the water for some reliable action. These flounder trips book up during peak season, especially weekends, so grab your spot early if you want to get in on some of the best inshore fishing NYC has to offer.
Step aboard this fully restored 36' Luhrs for your flounder fishing adventure in NYC waters. With twin Cummins engines pushing you to the best fishing spots, you'll have everything needed for a successful day on the water. The boat comfortably handles up to six anglers with plenty of deck space to work your lines and land those tasty flatfish. When you need a break from casting, retreat to the air-conditioned cabin complete with kitchen, refrigerator, and even a bed for anyone wanting to rest between bites. The onboard fish finder helps locate schools of flounder hiding in the sandy bottom, while GPS and radar keep you safely navigating New York's busy harbor. Store your catch in the icebox and grab cold drinks from the fridge as you enjoy the multimedia system during slower fishing periods. The full toilet facilities mean no cutting trips short, letting you maximize your time targeting these prized bottom dwellers in prime NYC fishing grounds.
New York City, NY