Tuna Fishing in New Jersey | 10-Hour Trip
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
10-hour offshore tuna fishing adventure 30-65 miles outMultiple fishing styles including trolling, chunking, and sharkingMaximum 6 guests with gear and live bait provided
Picture this: you're 30-65 miles off the Jersey coast, surrounded by nothing but deep blue water and the promise of world-class tuna action. Side Job Sportfishing's 10-hour tuna adventure is what serious anglers have been waiting for – a full day targeting some of the Atlantic's most prized fish without the marathon journey to the canyons. With only six spots available, this isn't your typical cattle boat experience. You'll have room to fish properly, access to top-notch gear, and the freedom to bring your cooler home packed with your hard-earned catch. Whether you're a seasoned pro or looking to step up your game, this trip delivers the kind of fishing that keeps you coming back season after season.
Your day starts early – and trust me, it's worth every minute of lost sleep. Once we clear the inlet and start the run offshore, you'll feel that anticipation building as the coastal waters give way to the deep blue. The beauty of fishing these waters is the variety of structure and current breaks that hold fish. We're not just running blindly out there; we're targeting specific areas where tuna congregate based on water temperature, bait presence, and seasonal patterns. The 10-hour window gives us real flexibility to move around and find active fish rather than being stuck in one spot hoping they show up. You'll spend your day switching between different techniques depending on what the fish are telling us, and with a maximum of six anglers, everyone gets quality time on the rods. The crew knows these waters inside and out, so you're not just getting a boat ride – you're getting decades of local knowledge working in your favor.
We're talking about three main approaches here, and each one has its place depending on conditions and fish behavior. Trolling is often where we start – pulling spreads of cedar plugs, daisy chains, and diving plugs to cover water and locate schools. When we mark fish or see surface activity, that's when chunking becomes the name of the game. We'll anchor up or drift, putting out a slick of cut bait to draw fish in close where you can watch them come up and smash your offering. The gear is already dialed in – heavy spinning setups and conventional reels loaded with enough line to handle these fish when they decide to make their runs. Live bait is provided when available, and there's nothing quite like watching a tuna crush a live bunker right at the boat. Sharking adds another dimension to the day, especially during slower periods or when we're between tuna schools. The tackle gets beefed up even more, and we're talking about fish that can really test your endurance and drag system.
Blackfin tuna are the speed demons of the bunch – typically running 10-25 pounds, these fish are pure muscle and attitude. They show up consistently through the warmer months, usually from late spring through fall, and they're known for their aggressive strikes and blistering runs. What makes blackfins special is their willingness to bite almost anything when they're feeding, from small jigs to chunks of bunker. They travel in schools, so when you find one, there are usually more around. The meat is outstanding – dark, rich, and perfect for sashimi if you're into that. Yellowfin tuna step things up considerably in both size and fight. These fish commonly run 30-80 pounds in our waters, with bigger ones always possible. They're more selective feeders than blackfins, often requiring a more finessed approach, especially in clear water. Yellowfins have this habit of making incredibly long runs that will test both your drag settings and your patience. The reward is some of the finest eating fish in the ocean – that light pink meat is what sushi restaurants pay top dollar for. Bluefin tuna are the holy grail – these are the fish that turn a good day into a legendary one. Running anywhere from 30 pounds to well over 100, bluefins are incredibly powerful and surprisingly smart. They're heavily regulated, so we follow all size and bag limits strictly, but when you hook into a quality bluefin, you'll understand why anglers travel from around the world to fish for them. They're known for their incredible stamina and ability to sound deep when hooked, often leading to battles that last 30 minutes or more.
This isn't the kind of trip you stumble into last minute – the six-person limit means spots fill up fast, especially during prime tuna season. You're looking at a full day of fishing with a crew that knows how to put you on fish, using techniques that actually work in these waters. The fact that you can bring your own cooler means you're not just paying for the experience – you're investing in some of the finest table fare the ocean has to offer. Whether you're looking to check tuna off your bucket list or you're a regular who knows what Jersey waters can produce, Side Job Sportfishing has the boat, the knowledge, and the commitment to make it happen. Don't wait until the bite reports start lighting up social media – by then, the calendar is usually booked solid. Secure your spot now and get ready for the kind of fishing day that reminds you why you fell in love with this sport in the first place.
Side Job Charters' powerful sportfishing vessel packs twin 450 HP engines that'll get you to the prime tuna grounds 30-65 miles offshore without burning half your fishing day traveling. This well-equipped boat handles up to 6 anglers comfortably with plenty of deck space for fighting those big bluefin. You'll find everything needed for a serious day on the water - GPS and fish finder to locate the schools, VHF radio for safety, plus radar when visibility drops. The onboard facilities keep everyone comfortable during those long 10-hour trips with air conditioning, a full head with shower, kitchen area, and even sleeping quarters if someone needs a break between bites. Ice box and refrigerator keep your catch fresh and drinks cold. The wireless trolling motor lets the captain position quietly over productive water whether you're chunking, trolling, or targeting sharks. Built for New Jersey's offshore conditions, this boat gets you to where the tuna are feeding and back home with coolers full of quality fish.
Thunnus AtlanticusThe smallest of the tuna family, Blackfins typically run 15-30 pounds with that classic torpedo shape and distinctive yellow side stripes. You'll find them in warm water over 68°F, usually within 30-50 miles of shore near the continental shelf. They're fierce fighters for their size and make excellent table fare - some say they're the best eating tuna. Spring through fall are prime times here in New Jersey waters. These fish school up with skipjacks and have sharp eyesight, so we scale down to #30 fluorocarbon leaders and 5/0 circle hooks. Chunking with fresh pilchards works great, but here's the trick - when you see them busting bait on the surface, quickly pitch a small jig or live bait right into the chaos.
Thunnus ThynnusBluefins are the ultimate prize - these giants average 100-300 pounds but can push 800+ pounds. They're incredibly strong fighters with blazing surface runs and deep dives that'll make your arms burn. The meat is world-class, especially for sashimi. We find them from spring through late fall in our waters, often around temperature breaks and current edges. They bite best during dawn and dusk hours. Heavy tackle is a must - these fish will humble you quickly. Trolling covers water to locate schools, then we switch to chunking with fresh herring or mackerel. Here's what works: when chunking, start your chum line light and gradually increase it. Keep your hook baits swimming naturally in the slick, and be patient - big bluefins often take their time before committing.
Thunnus AlbacaresYellowfins are the workhorses of offshore tuna fishing, averaging 40-80 pounds but capable of hitting 200+ pounds. They cruise the upper 100 feet of water column year-round, with peak action from summer through early fall. These fish are built for speed - they'll hit 50 mph and make blistering runs that'll test your drag. The meat quality is outstanding, perfect for sushi or grilling steaks. We target them trolling spreader bars and ballyhoo, but chunking really shines when they get finicky. Vertical jigging works well when you mark fish deep. Pro tip: when the trolling bite slows down, switch to chunking with butterfish or herring - the scent trail will often pull them up from the depths and turn a slow day into fish boxes full of quality yellowfins.
Belmar, NJ