Massachusetts Bay Fishing Charters & Guides

Massachusetts Bay

There are two versions of the Massachusetts Bay. One version is the “official” Massachusetts Bay that runs from Cape Ann to Plymouth. The other version tends to add Cape Cod Bay into its definition. We’ll stick to the original official version, and focus on the incredible fishing found here. Massachusetts Bay is part of the Gulf of Maine, which runs from Cape Cod Bay north to Nova Scotia. Drive out a bit farther and you’ll find yourself in the Atlantic Ocean. Giant ships filled with cargo travel nearby channels to Massachusetts Bay and the many harbors along the coast of Massachusetts. There are also recreational fishermen and women who access these waters’ abundant fish populations.

Fishing Massachusetts Bay

Local anglers don’t tend to think of fishing the Massachusetts Bay as one body of water. There are tons of smaller bays and harbors that draw our attention. Before we talk about where to fish the bay, let’s talk about what is lurking beneath the surface of the water. One word: stripers. That’s right. Striped bass is the number one fish that attracts anglers of all ages and experience levels to the bay. It’s not uncommon to find charters reeling in 50-pound striped bass throughout the season. These grayish fish have black dotted lines running from head to tail. Fish near the shoreline from April to June for best results. Many anglers will go trolling for stripers, using menhaden, eels, squid, or a variety of other baits. It’s a thrilling trip when you’ve got a striper on the line. Bluefin Tuna is another very popular species targeted by Massachusetts Bay anglers. They show up in good numbers in June and the season runs until November. It’s a long day fishing for tuna, starting before the sun rises over the horizon. But it’s filled with action once a tuna is on the line. Again, trolling is the top producing technique for these massive fish. Anglers may also try jigging for tuna. But with some fish weighing more than 1,000 pounds, we recommend you bring a few extra guys to help reel your trophy in. Another favorite fishing excursion in Massachusetts Bay are shark fishing trips. Record breaking sharks are caught throughout the Gulf of Maine. Anglers will see a variety of shark species, including Threshers, Porbeagles, Blue Sharks and Mako Sharks. Mako sharks are perhaps the most recognizable and probably what comes to mind when someone mentions “shark.” Each species can grow to monster sizes and will use their weight to fight the line. Your Massachusetts Bay charter captain will have the heavy tackle and experience needed to land this prized catch. Where you’re fishing in the bay will determine what kind of species you may find at the end of your line. Closer to the shore can see striped bass, bluefish, black sea bass, tautog, or flounder. A bit farther out and you’ll find cod, cusk, haddock, halibut, mackerel, tuna, and shark. If you’re targeting shark, don’t expect the other species to hang around that area. Otherwise you can sometimes come home with a mixed bag of incredible Massachusetts Bay treasures.

Massachusetts Bay Deep Sea Fishing

As mentioned, throughout the bay are smaller bays, sounds, and harbors that local anglers have determined as optimal fishing grounds. We won’t give away anyone’s honey hole (those spots that anglers have claimed as a guaranteed spot for finding fish), but we’re happy to point you in the general direction. Stellwagen Bank is one such place, known for its incredible tuna fishing. It’s right at the edge between Massachusetts Bay and Cape Cod Bay, about 19 miles east of Plymouth. The entire area covers 842-square miles of water, and is known for incredible whale watching and fishing opportunities. Find the shallow sections of the area, about 65-feet deep, and the tuna can’t dive as deep to run your line. Again, trolling or jigging for tuna are the most common practices. Run the boat near the southside from west to east and back for best results. This is also a great place to catch haddock. Wildcat Knoll is another great location for deep sea fishing. Here you’ll find cod and haddock, but it’s primarily known as the spot to go shark fishing. When launching from Boston it’s about 30 miles east. It may take awhile to get to the fishing grounds, but it’s a great spot for reeling in sharks. Chum the waters and you’ll soon have a fight on your hands. It’s always a memorable trip when you’re fishing for sharks!

Book a Massachusetts Bay Trip

All along the coast of Massachusetts are ports and marinas to start your adventures. Popular launching points include Gloucester, Salem, Marblehead, and Boston. Find a local charter, tell them what you’re looking to catch, and you’ll soon be on the excursion of a lifetime. Enjoy!