Half Day Sea Bass and Scup Trip in NYC Waters
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fourhour inshore fishing trip targeting Sea Bass and ScupComfortable 36foot vessel accommodates up to six guests maximumAll bait, tackle, and professional guidance included onboard
Captain Tom Lacognata knows these New York City waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious fish. This 4-hour inshore adventure targets two of the area's most reliable species - black sea bass and scup - right in the productive waters surrounding Brooklyn. You'll launch from 3260 Flatbush Ave and spend your morning or afternoon working structure and bottom features that consistently hold fish. The 36-foot Luhrs gives you plenty of room to spread out with just four anglers max, so there's no crowding at the rail when the bite gets hot.
This top-rated charter keeps things simple and productive. Captain Tom provides all your bait, tackle, and the local knowledge that makes the difference between a slow day and a cooler full of keeper fish. The boat's equipped with modern electronics to locate fish-holding structure, and the first mate will be right there to help you land everything from your first drop to the last cast of the day. Whether you're bringing the kids for their first real fishing trip or you're an experienced angler looking to dial in on these NYC hotspots, the crew adapts to your skill level. The mate works hard to keep everyone fishing effectively, so remember that 20% tip - it's standard practice and well-earned when you see how much they hustle to put fish in the boat.
You'll be fishing classic Northeast bottom structure using high-low rigs and fresh bait that sea bass and scup can't resist. The captain positions the boat over rocky bottom, wrecks, and drop-offs where these fish congregate to feed. Most of your fishing involves dropping baited hooks to the bottom and working them just above the structure - it's straightforward technique that produces consistent results. The boat's anchor system keeps you positioned perfectly over productive spots, and the crew will adjust your rig weight based on current and depth. Sea bass love to hold tight to cover, so you'll often feel that distinctive tap-tap-tap before they commit to the bait. Scup tend to school up and when you find them, the action can be non-stop with multiple fish coming over the rail.
Black sea bass are the prize catch on this trip, and NYC waters hold some chunky fish that fight harder than their size suggests. These bottom-dwellers love rocky structure and are most active during warmer months from late spring through fall. A keeper sea bass runs 12.5 inches or longer, but don't be surprised to hook into fish pushing 3-4 pounds that will test your drag. They're excellent eating with firm, white meat that's perfect for the dinner table. Sea bass are curious fish that often investigate baits thoroughly before committing, so patience pays off. When they do bite, that distinctive head-shaking fight and their tendency to dive back toward structure keeps things interesting right to the net.
Scup, also known as porgy, are the steady producers that keep your rod bent throughout the trip. These silver-sided fighters travel in schools and once you locate them, the action stays consistent. They're smaller than sea bass but make up for it with aggressive feeding and surprising fighting ability for their size. Scup are fantastic table fare - many local anglers prefer them to more famous species for their sweet, flaky meat. They're curious fish that respond well to small pieces of fresh bait, and their willingness to bite makes them perfect for newer anglers building confidence. During peak season, it's not unusual to catch dozens of these scrappy fighters, giving everyone on board plenty of action and photo opportunities.
This half-day trip delivers exactly what NYC anglers want - consistent action, quality fish, and a professional crew that knows how to put you on the bite. Captain Tom's local expertise and the boat's fish-finding capabilities give you the best shot at a successful trip without burning a whole day on the water. The 4-hour format is perfect for families, visitors to the city, or anyone wanting to get their fishing fix without a major time commitment. With all gear provided and expert guidance included, you just need to show up ready to fish. These productive inshore waters are right in your backyard, so why not take advantage of some of the best bottom fishing the Northeast has to offer? Book your spot and get ready to experience why local anglers keep coming back to these proven fishing grounds.
This freshly restored 36' Luhrs is your fishing platform for chasing sea bass and scup in NYC waters. Twin Cummins engines get you to the fishing grounds quickly, while the fish finder helps locate productive bottom structure where these species hang out. The spacious cockpit gives all four anglers room to work without tangling lines, and when you need a break from the action, retreat to the air-conditioned cabin complete with kitchen and head. Captain Tom keeps bait and tackle stocked, so you can focus on reading the bottom and landing fish. The onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during the 4-hour trip. Modern GPS and radar ensure safe navigation through busy New York Harbor traffic. Whether you're a seasoned bottom fisherman or learning the ropes, this well-equipped vessel provides a solid base for productive fishing just off Brooklyn's coast.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are the bread and butter of our local fishing, running 1-4 pounds with occasional 6+ pounders that really bend the rod. These chunky fighters love structure - wrecks, rocky bottom, jetties, and old pilings in 30-80 feet. Peak season runs late spring through fall when they're thick around NYC waters. What guests love most is their aggressive bite and how they pull hard until they hit the surface. Plus they're fantastic eating - firm, white meat that's perfect for the dinner table. The bigger males develop a distinctive hump on their head during spawn. Pro tip: once you hook one, work the area thoroughly. Sea bass school up tight, so where there's one, there's usually more waiting below.
Stenotomus ChrysopsScup, also called porgy, are one of our most reliable targets from May through October when they move inshore with the warm water. These silver-scaled fighters typically run 12-16 inches and put up a scrappy fight on medium tackle. You'll find them feeding near bottom around rocks, pilings, and structure in 20-60 feet of water. They're excellent table fare with sweet, flaky white meat that makes them a family favorite. Scup have small mouths but strong jaws for crushing shells and crabs. They're pretty cooperative fish - not too finicky about bait. My tip: use a two-hook bottom rig with squid or clam, and keep your bait moving slightly off the bottom. They often bite light, so stay alert for subtle taps.
New York City, NY