NYC's Top-Rated Full Day Inshore Fishing Trip

NYC's Ultimate Fishing Adventure: Sea Bass, Blues & More

Ready to wet a line in the Big Apple? Captain Tom Lacognata's full-day trip out of Brooklyn is the real deal for anglers looking to tangle with some of New York's hardest-fighting fish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this 7-hour expedition has everything you need for a killer day on the water. We're talking black sea bass, bluefish, scup, and even the chance to battle a striped bass or two. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's dive into what makes this NYC fishing charter a can't-miss experience.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising out of Flatbush Ave on a sweet 36' Luhrs, the Manhattan skyline fading behind you as you head for the fishing grounds. Captain Tom's got all the latest gadgets to put you on the fish, and with room for up to six anglers, you can bring the whole crew. Don't sweat the gear – all bait and tackle are provided, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. And hey, if you're new to this or bringing the kids along, no worries. The captain and first mate are there to show you the ropes and make sure everyone's having a blast.

Techniques & Terrain

Fishing New York's waters is all about versatility. One minute you might be bottom fishing for sea bass and scup, feeling that telltale thump as they hit your bait. Next thing you know, you're casting lures for bluefish as they blitz on the surface. Captain Tom's got a few tricks up his sleeve, from drifting live baits to jigging with artificials. The waters around NYC are a mix of rocky bottoms, sandy flats, and underwater structures that hold fish. Depending on the season and what's biting, you might find yourself fishing anywhere from the calm bay waters to the more open ocean spots.

Top Catches This Season

Black sea bass are the stars of the show here, and for good reason. These tasty bottom-dwellers put up a scrappy fight and are excellent on the dinner table. But don't sleep on the bluefish – when they're running, it's non-stop action with these toothy predators smashing bait left and right. Scup (also known as porgy) are perfect for anglers who want steady action, while the occasional striped bass or picked dogfish adds some variety to the mix. Remember, it's not just about what you catch, but the stories you'll tell afterward. Nothing beats the feeling of that first big fish of the day hitting your line with the city skyline as your backdrop.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Black Sea Bass: These bruisers are the bread and butter of New York bottom fishing. They typically range from 1-3 pounds but can get much bigger. Sea bass love structure, so expect to drop your bait near wrecks or reefs. They're aggressive feeders and will often hit as soon as your bait reaches the bottom. The meat is white, flaky, and delicious – perfect for a fish fry back at the dock.

Bluefish: Blues are the bulldogs of the sea. They're fast, powerful, and will test your drag system to the max. These guys run in schools and when they're feeding, it's a frenzy. Bluefish can range from 2-15 pounds, with some real monsters out there. They're great sport on light tackle and put up an impressive aerial display when hooked. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them!

Scup (Porgy): Don't let their size fool you – scup are a blast to catch and great eating too. These pan-sized fish usually weigh under a pound but they're abundant and bite readily. They're perfect for kids or anyone who wants constant action. Scup have small mouths, so you'll need to be quick on the hookset.

Striped Bass: The crown jewel of Northeast inshore fishing. Stripers are the fish that dreams are made of – they're big, they fight hard, and they're absolutely beautiful. While they're not always a guarantee, hooking into a 30+ pound striper is an experience you'll never forget. They love to hang around structure and ambush bait, so keep your eyes peeled for birds working the surface – that's often a sign of stripers feeding below.

Picked Dogfish: These small sharks might not be on your target list, but they're a cool catch nonetheless. Dogfish typically run 2-3 feet long and put up a decent fight for their size. They're curious creatures and will often investigate baits meant for other species. While not commonly eaten in the US, they're actually quite popular in Europe for fish and chips.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – although that's a big part of it. Fishing with Captain Tom is like heading out with a buddy who happens to know every nook and cranny of New York's waters. He's got that perfect balance of professionalism and laid-back attitude that makes for a great day on the water. Plus, let's be real – where else can you reel in a monster fish with the Statue of Liberty in the background? It's an only-in-New-York experience that keeps folks coming back year after year.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of New York's finest fish, Captain Tom's full-day trip is your ticket. Whether you're a local looking for a new honey hole or a visitor wanting to see the city from a different angle, this is the trip for you. Remember, the boat can take up to six people, so it's perfect for a family outing or a day with your buddies. Just don't forget to bring a cooler for your catch – you might be bringing home dinner! Oh, and a word to the wise: trips like this book up fast, especially during peak season. So if you're ready to make some memories (and maybe catch the fish of a lifetime), don't wait. Get in touch with Captain Tom and lock in your date. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're out there, rod in hand, with the Big Apple's skyline as your fishing backdrop. Tight lines!