Full Day Shark Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
8hour offshore shark fishing adventure departing at 6:00 AMExpert crew guidance with proven techniques and topquality gearSmall group experience accommodating maximum 6 guests
When you're ready to test your mettle against some of the ocean's most powerful predators, this 8-hour shark fishing charter with Voodoo Charters delivers the real deal. We're talking about a serious angling adventure that starts at 6:00 AM sharp and takes you into Gloucester's prime offshore waters where these apex predators patrol. With room for just 6 anglers, you get the personalized attention and prime fishing spots that make the difference between a good day and a legendary one. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll put you on fish using techniques that have been proven to work time and again in New England's challenging conditions.
This isn't your typical bottom fishing trip – we're heading into deep water where patience meets adrenaline. The day kicks off early because that's when sharks are most active, and we want every advantage we can get. You'll be fishing with heavy tackle designed to handle fish that can weigh hundreds of pounds and fight like nothing else in these waters. Our captain and crew will have you rigged up with circle hooks, wire leaders, and fresh bait that sharks can't resist. The boat rides smooth even in moderate seas, but be ready for some motion as we work the productive offshore grounds. Between the anticipation of a bite and the intensity of the fight, eight hours flies by faster than you'd think. Your fishing license is included, so all you need to bring is your energy and maybe some seasickness medication if you're prone to that.
Shark fishing is all about reading the water and putting the right bait in the right place at the right time. We run a combination of techniques that work best in Gloucester's offshore environment – from chunking with fresh bluefish and mackerel to deploying whole baits on heavy sinkers. The crew sets up a proper chum slick to draw sharks from miles away, creating that oil trail and scent corridor that gets them fired up and competitive. We fish with 50-80 pound class tackle depending on conditions and target species, using circle hooks that improve hook-up rates and fish survival. Wire leaders are mandatory – these fish have teeth that'll cut through mono like it's not even there. The key is staying alert because shark bites can be subtle at first, just a gentle pull before all hell breaks loose. Our crew coaches you through every step, from setting the hook to fighting technique that'll save your back and land more fish.
Blue sharks are the bread and butter of our offshore shark fishery, showing up consistently from late spring through fall. These sleek predators average 6-8 feet and put up a spectacular fight with long runs and aerial displays. They're curious fish that respond well to chum, often circling the boat multiple times before committing to a bait. What makes blues special is their willingness to bite and their acrobatic fighting style – they'll jump, tail-walk, and make screaming runs that test your drag system.
Thresher sharks are the prize catch that gets every angler's heart racing. These unique predators use their massive tail fin like a whip to stun baitfish, and when hooked, they put on a show unlike any other shark species. Threshers typically show up in our waters during summer months, and landing one is considered a badge of honor among serious shark anglers. They're strong, unpredictable fighters that can weigh over 300 pounds, making every encounter a true test of angling skill.
Smooth hammerheads patrol our waters during warmer months, and their distinctive profile makes them instantly recognizable. These sharks are smart and can be finicky, requiring fresh bait and proper presentation to get them interested. When you do hook up, hammerheads fight with power and determination, using their unique head shape to create leverage that'll test your tackle to the limit.
Tiger sharks and great whites represent the ultimate challenge in New England waters. Tigers are rare but possible catches that can exceed 12 feet and 500 pounds, with teeth designed to cut through anything. Great whites are the holy grail – massive, powerful, and intelligent predators that require perfect conditions and a bit of luck to encounter. Both species demand respect and expert handling, which our experienced crew provides.
This top-rated shark fishing experience books up fast, especially during peak season when conditions are prime and fish are most active. With only 6 spots available per trip, serious anglers know to reserve early to secure their shot at these incredible fish. The combination of Voodoo Charters' local expertise, quality equipment, and proven fishing grounds makes this one of the best shark fishing opportunities on the entire East Coast. Whether you're looking to check shark fishing off your bucket list or add to your collection of trophy catches, this full-day adventure delivers the goods. Don't wait – these predators are out there right now, and your next personal best could be just one trip away.
Prionace GlaucaBlues are probably the most beautiful sharks you'll encounter - that deep blue coloration really pops when they come boatside. They typically run 7-10 feet and 60-200 pounds, with females getting considerably bigger. These are open ocean wanderers that cruise our offshore waters from late spring through fall, usually in the 100-800 foot range. They prefer water temps around 60-70°F and follow the warm currents. Guests appreciate their acrobatic fights and willingness to take bait. Blues respond well to a good chum slick - we use ground mackerel and herring to draw them in. Fresh squid or mackerel chunks work great on 6/0-8/0 circle hooks. Pro tip: keep your bait at least 20 feet from the boat and use a wire leader - their small teeth can still cut mono. When one shows up, others usually follow, so stay ready for multiple hookups.
Carcharodon CarchariasGreat whites are the apex predator everyone wants to see but few get to encounter. These giants can reach 15-20 feet and over 5,000 pounds, cruising our waters mainly during seal pupping season in late summer and fall. They patrol the 60-200 foot range near structure where seals congregate. Water temps of 60-70°F bring them close to shore. Important note: great whites are federally protected, so this is strictly catch, tag, and release with proper permits only. The thrill is in the encounter itself - there's nothing like seeing that massive shadow under your boat. When we do encounter them, we use heavy tackle with 100+ pound test and circle hooks for safe release. The key is staying calm and following all safety protocols. Most sightings happen when we're targeting other species, making it an bonus that guests remember forever.
Sphyrna ZygaenaSmooth hammerheads are the second-largest in the hammerhead family, averaging 10-11 feet but capable of reaching nearly 12. That distinctive curved head without the center notch makes them easy to ID. They cruise our offshore waters during summer months, preferring the upper water column less than 60 feet deep where water temps hit 60-75°F. These active predators hunt everything from bony fish to squid and even other sharks. What makes them special is their electroreception - they can detect electrical fields from prey hidden in the sand. Guests love the powerful fight they put up and the unique photo opportunity. My advice? Use fresh mackerel or bluefish on a 10/0 circle hook with heavy tackle. When you see that hammer-shaped head break the surface, keep steady pressure but let your drag do the work.
Alopias VulpinusThreshers are the acrobats of the shark world - that tail can be as long as their body, reaching 16+ feet total and 500+ pounds. They use that massive tail like a whip to stun baitfish at speeds up to 50 mph. Around here, we find them 40-50 miles offshore in 200-2000 feet of water during late spring through early fall. What makes them special is watching them hunt and their tendency to jump clear out of the water when hooked. The fight is intense - they're built for speed and power. We target them by trolling large lures or drifting with fresh mackerel and sardines. Use heavy tackle, 12-15 weight rods with 50-80 pound braid. Here's the key: despite their size, they have small mouths, so use 8/0 hooks max and keep your bait presentation natural. When you hook one, hold on tight - the initial run will test everything.
Galeocerdo CuvierTigers are the bruisers of our waters, commonly running 11-14 feet and 800-1400 pounds, with big females pushing 16+ feet. Those dark stripes fade as they age, but the attitude doesn't. They're slower swimmers than most sharks but capable of lightning-fast bursts when feeding. Around Gloucester, we find them in deeper offshore waters, usually 200-1000 feet, though they'll move shallow to hunt. Summer and early fall are prime time when water temps climb into the 70s. What draws anglers is the raw power - these fish will test every piece of gear you own. They're not picky eaters, hitting cut mackerel, bluefish, or fresh tuna. Key trick: use 100-pound mono with a 10/0 hook and keep your drag smooth. When a tiger grabs your bait, it's going to be a long fight, so pace yourself and stay patient.
Gloucester, MA