Ready for a day that's equal parts fishing action and coastal cruising? XTC Sportfishing's Belmar Fishing Charter Scenic is your ticket to the perfect blend of angling and sightseeing off the Jersey Shore. We're talking 8 full hours on the water, kicking off at the crack of dawn when the fish are biting and the ocean's calling your name. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to wet a line while soaking in some seriously gorgeous views, this trip's got you covered.
Picture this: You and your crew (up to 5 buddies) hop aboard at 6 AM sharp in Belmar, NJ. We're not wasting any time - the early bird gets the worm, or in this case, the fish. Your captain's got the inside scoop on where the action's hot, using tried-and-true methods like trolling and chumming to put you on the fish. But here's the kicker - this isn't your run-of-the-mill fishing frenzy. We're taking it easy, giving you plenty of time to cast a line, sure, but also to kick back, relax, and soak in those killer ocean views. It's the perfect mix for folks who want to fish without feeling like they're in a race.
Alright, let's break it down. We're talking offshore fishing here, which means we're heading out where the big boys play. Trolling's the name of the game - we'll be dragging lines behind the boat, mimicking tasty bait fish to entice the predators lurking below. And when we find a hot spot? Time to drop anchor and start chumming. We'll create a feeding frenzy that'll have fish swarming your hook faster than you can say "fish on!" Don't sweat it if you're new to this - your captain's got you covered with all the know-how and gear you need. Just be ready to reel when that rod starts bouncing!
Belmar's waters are teeming with some serious fighters, and we're here to help you land 'em. Let's talk targets:
Bluefish: These bad boys are the bulldogs of the sea. Known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, blues will test your arms and your drag. They show up in force come spring and fall, often creating surface blitzes that'll have you casting frantically into boiling water. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the rush of a bluefish hitting your lure like a freight train.
Black Sea Bass: Don't let their size fool you - these structure-loving bottom dwellers put up a scrappy fight. They're here year-round, but the bigger ones, affectionately called "humpbacks" by locals, show up in late fall. Sea bass are notorious bait stealers, so when you feel that telltale tap-tap, set the hook hard! Bonus: They're delicious, so if you're looking for a fish fry, these are your guys.
Summer Flounder (Fluke): The masters of camouflage, these flatfish are a summertime staple in Belmar. Fluke fishing is an art form - you've got to finesse that bait along the bottom just right to entice a bite. But when a big doormat (that's local speak for a trophy fluke) inhales your offering, hold on tight. They might look funny, but they fight like champs.
Striped Bass: The crown jewel of the Jersey Shore, stripers are the fish that dreams are made of. These silver-sided beauties can grow to monster sizes, and they're known for epic battles that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Spring and fall are prime time for stripers, when they're migrating along the coast. Landing a keeper striper is a badge of honor among local anglers, and trust me, once you've tangled with one, you'll be hooked for life.
Look, I've been running charters out of Belmar for years, and I've seen firsthand why folks can't get enough of this trip. It's not just about the fish (though that's a big part of it). It's about that perfect mix of action and relaxation. One minute you're reeling in a feisty bluefish, the next you're kicking back with a cold one, watching the sun sparkle on the waves. And let's not forget the moments in between - swapping stories, learning new techniques, and just soaking in that salty air. It's a day on the water that hits all the right notes, whether you're a die-hard angler or just looking for a unique way to experience the Jersey Shore.
Alright, let's talk logistics. This is a private charter, so it's just you and your crew (up to 5 people total). We provide all the fishing gear and know-how, but you'll want to bring your own grub and drinks. Pack a lunch, some snacks, and whatever beverages float your boat - yes, that includes beer if you're so inclined. Just remember to bring your New Jersey fishing license (it's required), and maybe set aside a little extra for a tip (15% is the norm if the crew's treated you right). One last thing - that deposit you put down? It's non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book.
So there you have it, folks - XTC Sportfishing's Belmar Fishing Charter Scenic in a nutshell. It's the perfect mix of fishing action and scenic cruising, all wrapped up in one unforgettable day on the water. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, soak up some sun, or just escape the daily grind for a while, this trip's got you covered. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't sleep on this one. Give us a shout, lock in your date, and get ready for a day of offshore adventure that'll have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you've experienced Belmar fishing, you'll be hooked for life.
Black sea bass are a blast to catch and even better to eat. These structure-loving fish hang around wrecks, reefs and rocky bottom in 60-120 feet of water. Most run 1-3 pounds but trophy fish over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. We usually start seeing them in May, with the best action from June through October. Sea bass fight hard for their size, with quick bursts and head shakes. They're also one of the tastiest fish in the ocean - mild, white, and flaky. To get the big ones, use larger baits like whole squid or cut fish. A two-hook bottom rig with circle hooks works great. When you feel that telltale tap-tap-tap, set the hook fast. These crafty fish love to steal bait. Catching a limit of keeper sea bass makes for an awesome day on the water.
Bluefish are hard-fighting predators that show up in our waters from spring to fall. They typically range from 3-10 pounds but can get up to 20. Look for them near the surface chasing bait schools - you'll often see birds diving. They'll hit just about any lure or bait that moves fast. Bluefish put up an awesome fight and are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. Late summer and early fall are prime time as they fatten up before migrating south. To land a big one, try trolling with wire line and surgical tubing lures. Watch those teeth when unhooking - they're razor sharp! Bluefish make great eating when prepared fresh, but bleed them right away for the best flavor. Overall, they're an exciting fish that'll test your gear and give you a thrill.
Striped bass are the crown jewel of our local fishery. These powerful gamefish migrate through our waters spring and fall, with some sticking around all summer. They range from schoolies under 28 inches up to trophy cows over 40 pounds. Look for stripers around structure, rips, and bait schools. Dawn and dusk are prime times. Stripers fight like freight trains - powerful runs, head shakes, and even some jumps. They'll hit lures, live bait, or cut bait. Eels are deadly at night. The spring run kicks off in April, but fall is the best shot at a trophy. Here's a local trick: fish the outgoing tide around jetties for big bass ambushing bait. Whether you're plugging the surf or trolling offshore, hooking into a big striper is an angling experience you won't forget.
Summer flounder, or fluke, are a favorite target here from May through September. These crafty flatfish lie camouflaged on sandy or muddy bottom, usually in 20-60 feet of water. Most keepers run 2-5 pounds, but we see some doormats over 10 pounds each year. Fluke are ambush predators - they'll chase down a bait dragged across the bottom. Drifting with bucktails tipped with Gulps or strips of squid is deadly. The bite is often subtle, so stay alert. When you feel weight, give a sharp hook set. Fluke put up a decent fight with head shakes and runs. They're prized for their delicate, white meat. Here's a local tip: work your bait with short hops off the bottom to trigger strikes. Catching a limit of keeper fluke for the dinner table is hard to beat.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: John Deer
Maximum Cruising Speed: 28
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 550