Curious about the history of the US Navy, or simply longing for a peaceful fishing trip with a side of history lesson? Then you’ve come to the right place. Marblehead is a peninsula jutting out into the Massachusetts Bay, with its rich history tied to the waters that surround it and the men who make a living out of it. Once you come here, you’ll feel the town’s pride in its roots and you just can’t help but be swept up in it as well.
Come here for the colonial-era structures and the classic New England vibe, then stay a little longer to experience the town’s passion for fishing. As part of the North Shore, you can be sure that you’ll get your bucket’s worth once you come here, whether you fish inshore or offshore.
Marblehead, like many North Shore destinations, is filled with both inshore and offshore fishing opportunities. If you’re not sure where to start, may we suggest the historic Marblehead Harbor? This picturesque harbor is right at the center of the town action and the best thing about it is that you don’t need to head too far out to fish. Just 15 or 20 minutes away from the harbor, you can fly fish striped bass, and bluefish, schools of which are attracted to the submerged rocks and ledges there. Night fishing is pretty popular here too, as the docks and piers on the harbor are pretty well-lit. If you venture to waters 15 to 25 feet in depth, down in the muddy flats, you can target winter flounder while drifting with your spinning tackle. Meanwhile, if you head out on the rocky shoreline at the mouth of the Marblehead Harbor, you can fish the Marblehead Neck. This spot holds plenty of striped bass, tautog, and black sea bass, as well as bluefish.
If you don’t want to head out on a boat, then surfcast on the shores of Castle Rock Park while enjoying the views of the nearby Carcassone mansion and the Atlantic Ocean. Deveraux Beach is yet another surfcasting spot well worth checking out, particularly the rocky formations on the opposite rims of the beach. It’s quite popular among locals as a late producer, attracting striped bass and bluefish well into October.
Feeling adventurous or ready for a long-haul trip on the water? Then launch your boat or book a fishing charter and head offshore. Bottom fish for haddock, pollock, and cod, or throw your chum line and attract shark. Just remember that targeting sharks in Marblehead are on a strictly catch-and-release basis.
Go on a walking tour of the historic district to see all the houses that date back to colonial times. Don’t forget to stop and look at the plaques to learn more about the history of each structure.
Rent or launch your own kayak on the Little Harbor Boathouse. Complete your experience by joining the Paddle & Picnic program, a two-hour kayak trip with a side stop at an island where you can enjoy some homegrown lobster roll.