NYC's Premier Bluefish & Striped Bass Charter

NYC's Hottest Inshore Bite: Blues & Stripers

Looking to tangle with some hard-fighting fish without venturing far from the Big Apple? Captain Tom Lacognata's got you covered with this action-packed half-day trip chasing bluefish and striped bass right in New York City's backyard. Leaving from Brooklyn, you'll hit prime fishing grounds where these bruisers lurk, all while taking in killer views of the city skyline. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for anyone itching to bend a rod and fill a cooler.

What to Expect on the Water

You'll meet Cap'n Tom at 3260 Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn, where his sweet 36-foot Luhrs awaits. This isn't some rickety skiff – we're talking a roomy, stable platform with all the bells and whistles to put you on fish. The boat's decked out with top-notch electronics to find the schools, and there's plenty of space for up to six anglers to cast without tangling lines. Tom's been running these waters for years, so he knows exactly where the bass and blues are stacked up. Best part? Everything you need is included – rods, reels, bait, the works. Just bring your game face and maybe a snack for the 4-hour hunt.

Rigs and Techniques for NYC Gamefish

Forget about complicated setups – we keep it simple and effective out here. For stripers, we'll often start with chunking fresh bunker (that's menhaden to you out-of-towners) on circle hooks. When the fish are busting on top, nothing beats tossing surface plugs or soft plastics into the fray. Blues? Those chompers will hit just about anything, but we love using diamond jigs or trolling spoons to cover water. Cap'n Tom and his first mate will show you the ropes, from how to work a lure to setting the hook when a big boy slams it. Don't worry if you're new to this – they'll have you fishing like a pro in no time. And for you saltwater vets, feel free to bring your own gear if you've got a favorite setup.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Striped Bass: The undisputed kings of the Northeast coast, these powerful fish are what dreams are made of. In the spring and fall, they migrate right through New York's waters, often growing to monster sizes. We're talking fish that can top 50 pounds! Stripers love to hang around structure, so we'll hit bridge pilings, rocky shorelines, and underwater humps. They put up an awesome fight, with screaming runs and head-shaking jumps that'll test your drag and your biceps. The best part? They're delicious on the grill.

Bluefish: If stripers are the kings, blues are the berserkers of the inshore world. These toothy critters are pure muscle and attitude, often traveling in big schools that can turn the water to foam when they're in a feeding frenzy. Size-wise, we usually see them from 2 to 10 pounds, but bigger "gator blues" in the teens aren't uncommon. Blues hit lures and bait with reckless abandon, often jumping and tailwalking across the surface. They're a blast on light tackle, and while some folks turn their noses up at eating them, a properly handled bluefish makes for some tasty smoked fish dip.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the Big Apple's waters. One minute you're casting in the shadow of skyscrapers, the next you're hooked up to a fish that's trying to drag you to Jersey. Cap'n Tom's trips are perfect for families looking to bond over bent rods, buddies wanting to escape the office grind, or solo anglers aiming to scratch that fishing itch without driving for hours. The crew works hard to put you on fish, but they also know how to keep things fun and relaxed. Plus, with a max of six guests, you're guaranteed plenty of elbow room and personal attention. Just remember to bring some cash to tip the first mate – these guys work their tails off to make sure you have a killer day on the water.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, if you're itching to tangle with some of the Northeast's hardest-fighting fish without leaving the city, this is your ticket. Cap'n Tom's half-day trips are the perfect mix of convenience and action-packed angling. Whether you're a die-hard fishhead or just looking to try something new, you'll get your money's worth and then some. The boat's comfortable, the crew's top-notch, and the fish are waiting. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot before someone else does – these trips fill up fast, especially during prime season. Trust me, once you feel that first big striper or bluefish on the end of your line, with the city skyline in the background, you'll be hooked for life. Don't miss out on some of the best inshore fishing NYC has to offer. Book now and get ready to make some serious angling memories!