Ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime? Get ready to battle some of the ocean's biggest predators on our 11-hour offshore adventure. We're talking giant bluefin tuna and razor-toothed sharks, folks. This isn't your average day on the water – it's an adrenaline-pumping chase for the kings of the sea. Our 2022-24 seasons have been on fire, with more monster tuna showing up than we've seen in years. If you've been dreaming of hooking into a fish that'll make your arms feel like jelly, now's your chance.
We don't mess around when it comes to chasing big game fish. We'll be hitting the high seas early – sometimes before the sun's up, depending on the tides. It's about a 1-2 hour run to get to the primo fishing grounds, so settle in and get pumped for what's ahead. Once we're in the zone, it's all hands on deck. We're talking heavy-duty gear, chunking bait, and keeping our eyes peeled for those telltale signs of feeding tuna or cruising sharks. Fair warning: when a bluefin hits, it's like hooking a freight train. You'll be in for the fight of your life, so bring your A-game and maybe some Advil for later.
Alright, let's talk tactics. For tuna, we'll be using a mix of trolling and chunking. We'll set out a spread of lines, dragging lures that mimic baitfish. When we mark a school on the fish finder, it's time to start tossing chunks of herring or mackerel to create a feeding frenzy. For sharks, we'll use similar methods but with beefier gear. Sometimes we'll anchor up and create a chum slick to bring those toothy critters right to us. Either way, when that reel starts screaming, you better be ready to jump into action. We use top-of-the-line Penn and Shimano setups, so you've got the firepower to take on whatever decides to eat your bait.
"We had a great time! Justin was a fantastic guide and got us on a big tuna. Will definitely go again!" - Artie
Bluefin Tuna: These are the rockstars of the Northeast fishing scene. Bluefins can top 1,000 pounds and put up a fight that'll leave you sore for days. They're lightning-fast, diving deep and running hard when hooked. The meat? Absolutely top-notch sushi-grade stuff. Peak season is usually July to October, but we've been seeing them show up earlier and stick around longer in recent years.
Shortfin Mako Shark: If you want an airborne show, pray for a mako. These speed demons are known for their acrobatic leaps and blistering runs. They're the fastest sharks in the ocean, clocking in at up to 45 mph. Makos typically show up in our waters from late spring through fall, following the warm Gulf Stream currents.
Porbeagle Shark: Often called the "mackerel shark," porbeagles are like the beefy cousins of makos. They're stocky, powerful, and love cold water. We see them most often in spring and fall when water temps are cooler. Don't let their smaller size fool you – these sharks can pull like a tractor.
Blue Shark: Blues are the most common sharks we encounter offshore. They're not the biggest, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and willingness to bite. Known for their deep blue color and long, slender build, these sharks are perfect for anglers looking to cut their teeth on shark fishing.
Thresher Shark: With their iconic long tail fin that they use to stun prey, threshers are a unique catch. They're known for their hard fights and tasty meat. We typically see them from late spring through fall, often mixed in with the tuna schools they're feeding on.
Now, I gotta mention the rules – any tuna over 73 inches has to be either sold commercially or released. But here's the sweet part: if we land a keeper and decide to sell it, Captain Moore will knock 50% off your trip cost. It's like the fish pays you back for catching it! Just remember, we're out here for the thrill of the fight and the joy of being on the water. Sometimes the ocean gives you a banner day, and sometimes she makes you work for it. That's fishing, and that's why we love it.
Look, if you're still reading this, you're probably itching to get out there. And I don't blame you one bit. There's nothing like the rush of battling a monster fish in the open ocean. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time going after the big boys, we'll make sure you have a day you'll be talking about for years. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait. Grab your buddies, clear your schedule, and let's go chase some giants. The tuna are out there, the sharks are hungry, and the Northeast's best fishing is waiting for you. Book now and get ready for the offshore adventure of a lifetime!
September 18, 2024
Blue Sharks are the marathon swimmers of the shark world. These sleek, deep-blue predators usually run 6-10 feet long. We find them in the open ocean, often within the top 100 feet of water. Summer and early fall are best, when warmer currents bring them closer to shore. Blues are known for their curiosity - they'll often investigate the boat. Anglers enjoy their acrobatic jumps and long, steady fights. To catch one, we'll set up a chum slick and drift baits like mackerel or squid. Here's a tip: use wire leaders, as their teeth can easily cut through mono. Blues aren't prized for eating, so we practice catch and release. It's cool to see these beautiful sharks up close before sending them back to roam the open sea.
Bluefin Tuna are the heavyweight champs of the Northeast. These torpedo-shaped powerhouses average 6-8 feet and 500 pounds, but can top 1,000 pounds. We find them anywhere from the surface down to 200 feet, often near temperature breaks or bait schools. Late summer through fall is prime time as they fatten up before migration. Anglers love Bluefin for their incredible strength and sushi-grade meat. Be ready for long, punishing fights - these fish don't give up easy. We'll troll spreader bars, cast poppers, or chunk with butterfish and mackerel. My go-to trick is using a kite to present baits on the surface - it drives Bluefin crazy. Remember, there are strict size and catch limits, so we always measure carefully. Landing a Bluefin is an experience you'll never forget.
Porbeagles are the cold-water cousins of Great Whites, built like torpedoes with powerful tails. They usually run 5-7 feet long, weighing 300-500 pounds. You'll find them in deeper, cooler waters offshore, typically 100-200 feet down. Late spring through fall is best, when they move closer to shore chasing baitfish. Anglers prize Porbeagles for their strength and tasty meat. These sharks put up a serious fight, often making long, deep runs. To hook one, we'll drift or slow troll with fresh mackerel or herring. Here's a pro tip: use circle hooks to improve hook-ups and make releasing easier if needed. Porbeagles have tough skin, so heavy leader is a must. Keep an eye out for their white patch behind the dorsal fin - it's a dead giveaway when you're bringing one up.
Shortfin Makos are the sprinters of the shark world, hitting speeds up to 60 mph. These sleek, blue-backed predators average 6-8 feet but can reach 13 feet. You'll find them cruising the open ocean, often near the surface. Late summer and early fall are prime times as they follow baitfish inshore. Anglers love Makos for their acrobatic jumps and powerful runs. Their meat is also prized for its quality. When targeting Makos, use heavy tackle - at least 50 lb class gear. Chumming with ground fish works well to attract them. I always tell folks to keep the boat moving slowly while chumming - it spreads the scent and keeps the sharks interested. Watch out though, Makos are known for their aggressive nature and have even jumped into boats. It's an adrenaline rush you won't forget.
Thresher Sharks are the ninjas of the shark world, with that crazy long tail making up half their length. They average 8-10 feet but can reach 20 feet tip to tail. We usually find them in deeper offshore waters, 100-300 feet down. Late spring through fall is prime time when they follow baitfish inshore. Anglers love Threshers for their unique looks and hard-fighting nature. They're known for insane jumps and using that tail like a whip. To catch one, we'll slow troll or drift live mackerel or squid. Here's a pro tip: when you feel the bite, wait to set the hook. Threshers often whip bait with their tail before eating it. Heavy tackle is a must - these sharks can make blistering runs. The meat is also top-notch, similar to swordfish. Landing a Thresher is always a thrill.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yanmar
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 440
We had a great time! Justin was a fantastic guide and got us on a big tuna. Will definitely go again!