Premium 10 Hour Shark Fishing Charters in New Jersey
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
10hour offshore shark fishing adventure in New Jersey watersExpert captain provides all gear, chum, bait and rods includedSeasonal trips available April through December for up to 4 guests
Looking for a serious day of shark fishing along the New Jersey coastline? Smokin Reel Charters delivers exactly what you're after with this 10-hour offshore adventure that targets some of the Atlantic's most sought-after shark species. Captain and crew handle all the heavy lifting – from prepping chum lines to rigging quality tackle – so you can focus on what matters most: hooking into these apex predators. With room for just four anglers, you'll get the personalized attention and prime fishing spots that make this a top-rated charter experience.
Your day starts early with departure from one of New Jersey's premier fishing ports. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, running both inshore and offshore depending on conditions and where the fish are biting. This isn't some rushed half-day trip – with 10 full hours on the water, there's plenty of time to work different depths, try various techniques, and really dial in on the bite. The boat comes loaded with everything you need: circle hooks, wire leaders, quality rods and reels that can handle big fish, plus fresh bait and proven chum recipes that draw sharks from miles around. You'll cover prime shark territory along the continental shelf, where deep water meets underwater structure and creates the perfect hunting grounds for these incredible fish.
Shark fishing requires specific gear and proven methods, and this crew has it dialed in. They run heavy conventional reels spooled with braided line, paired with rods that have the backbone to handle 200+ pound fish. The terminal tackle setup includes circle hooks (required by law for many shark species), heavy wire leaders to prevent bite-offs, and weights sized for the current conditions. The real magic happens with the chum – they'll set up a proper slick using fish oil, ground bait, and chunked fish that creates a scent trail sharks can follow for miles. Baits include fresh bluefish, bunker, mackerel, and other oily fish that sharks can't resist. Techniques range from drift fishing over productive bottom to trolling lures and baits along temperature breaks where different water masses meet. The captain adjusts tactics based on conditions, target species, and what's been producing lately.
Each target species brings its own challenges and rewards to New Jersey's offshore waters. Dusky sharks are the workhorses of the fishery here – these bronze-colored bruisers average 100-150 pounds but can push well over 200. They're aggressive feeders that love chunked bait, and their powerful runs will test your drag system. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall, with some of the best action happening during the summer months when water temperatures climb into the 70s. What makes duskies special is their stamina – they'll make multiple strong runs and really make you work for each fish.
Shortfin mako sharks represent the speed demons of the shark world, capable of hitting 45+ mph and launching themselves completely out of the water when hooked. These sleek predators average 80-120 pounds in local waters but specimens over 200 pounds show up regularly. Makos prefer slightly cooler water than other species, making spring and fall prime time, though they're caught throughout the season. Their acrobatic fights and incredible speed make them a customer favorite – there's nothing quite like watching a mako go airborne multiple times during a fight.
Bull sharks bring raw power to the equation. These thick-bodied fighters are pure muscle, typically running 150-250 pounds in New Jersey waters. They're found closer to shore than other species, often in surprisingly shallow water, and they're known for their aggressive nature both when feeding and when hooked. Summer months produce the best bull shark action, especially around full moons when they move shallow to feed. Their bulldogging fighting style – powerful, determined runs straight down – tests both angler and equipment.
Blue sharks offer volume fishing when conditions align. These slender, beautiful sharks travel in schools and can provide non-stop action on the right day. They're smaller than the other target species, typically 50-100 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and athleticism. Blues are found in deeper offshore waters and prefer cooler temperatures, making them excellent targets during spring and fall trips. Their willingness to take both cut bait and lures makes them perfect for anglers looking to stay busy between shots at larger species.
This seasonal adventure runs from April through December, covering the prime months when sharks are most active in New Jersey waters. With only four spots available per trip, this charter fills up fast – especially during peak summer months when conditions are most consistent. The intimate group size means you'll get hands-on instruction, personal attention from the crew, and prime positioning when fish are hooked. Whether you're a seasoned shark angler looking to target specific species or someone ready to experience offshore shark fishing for the first time, this 10-hour adventure with Smokin Reel Charters delivers the complete package. The crew's local knowledge, quality equipment, and proven techniques give you the best shot at hooking into New Jersey's premier shark species while creating memories that'll last a lifetime.
Our fully-equipped motorboat puts you right in shark territory off the Jersey coast. With a powerful fish finder to track your targets and GPS to navigate prime fishing spots, this vessel is built for serious shark hunting. The wireless trolling motor lets us move quietly when positioning for the perfect shot. Between battles with these apex predators, relax on the flybridge or grab a cold drink from the onboard fridge. The boat features a comfortable bed for quick rest breaks during our 10-hour adventure, plus a full kitchen and head for your convenience. Our captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and comes loaded with premium chum, fresh bait, and top-quality rods. Whether you're targeting makos, threshers, or sand tigers, this boat gets you to where the action happens in New Jersey's productive offshore waters.
Prionace GlaucaBlues are the marathon runners of shark fishing - beautiful deep blue sharks that'll give you long, steady fights in deeper water. These sleek 7-10 footers prefer cooler offshore waters around 54-68°F, usually found 20+ miles out cruising around 200+ feet. Best action happens July through October when they follow squid migrations closer to our continental shelf. Guests love blues because they're aggressive feeders and relatively predictable once you find them. Their torpedo shape and bright blue coloration make them stunning fish. They respond great to chum slicks - mackerel, herring, and sardine mix works perfectly. Here's the trick: keep your baited lines at least 50 feet from the boat in the chum slick, and be patient - blues will circle before committing to the bite.
Carcharhinus LeucasBulls are the bruisers - thick, stocky sharks that pack a serious punch in close-quarters combat. These 8-12 foot fighters prefer our shallower inshore waters and can even push into brackish areas where rivers meet the ocean. Peak season runs June through September when they follow baitfish into warmer coastal zones. What guests love about bulls is their aggressive nature and raw power - no fancy jumps, just pure bulldogging strength. They're gray on top with darker fin tips, especially the juveniles. The key to success is heavy tackle and fresh cut bait. Local secret: freshwater eel is hands-down the best bull shark bait - the high oil content drives them crazy and the tough skin stays on your hook through multiple hits.
Carcharhinus ObscurusDusky sharks are some of the bigger predators you'll encounter off NJ, reaching 10-14 feet and packing serious weight. These gray-backed sharks cruise from shallow coastal waters out to 400+ feet, following baitfish migrations. We see them most reliably from June through October when water temps hit that sweet spot above 66°F. What makes duskies special is their power - they'll give you a sustained, bulldogging fight that tests your drag and endurance. Their round snouts and sickle-shaped fins make them easy to identify. Here's a local trick: when targeting duskies, use fresh bluefish chunks on the bottom - they can't resist that oily scent trail, especially during the evening bite when they move shallow to feed.
Isurus OxyrinchusMakos are the speed demons of our waters - fastest shark in the ocean and they'll prove it when hooked. These 8-13 footers cruise the offshore waters from May through November, usually staying near the surface but diving deep when chasing bait. What sets makos apart is their athletic fight - expect multiple jumps, long runs, and pure adrenaline. They're built like torpedos with pointed snouts and metallic blue sides. The meat's actually excellent eating too, which is rare for sharks. Our most productive technique is live bluefish or fresh mackerel chunks with a good chum slick. Pro tip: keep your drag light at first - makos hit hard and fast, and a locked drag will cost you the fish every time.
Neptune City, NJ