Where can I charter a fishing boat?

Passengers enjoy a day aboard a Long Island fishing charter, where experienced captains guide anglers to some of the region's best fishing grounds. Charter boats depart from ports across the island and offer trips for beginners, families, and seasoned fishermen targeting a variety of inshore and offshore species. File photo: Hike Kayak Fish, licensed. — Passengers enjoy a day aboard a Long Island fishing charter, where experienced captains guide anglers to some of the region’s best fishing grounds. Charter boats depart from ports across the island and offer trips for beginners, families, and seasoned fishermen targeting a variety of inshore and offshore species. File photo: Hike Kayak Fish, licensed.

Long Island is home to dozens of fishing charter boats offering trips for striped bass, fluke, blackfish, bluefish, tuna, sharks, offshore species, and more. Charter boats operate from ports throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties, making it easy to find a trip whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler.

In Short

Fishing charters depart from marinas across Nassau County and Suffolk County, including popular ports such as Montauk, Port Jefferson, Freeport, Captree State Park, and Greenport. Many charters provide fishing equipment, bait, tackle, and expert guidance.

Where Can I Charter a Fishing Boat?

Whether you’re interested in an inshore fishing trip, an offshore adventure, or a family-friendly day on the water, Long Island offers charter boats for nearly every type of fishing experience. Licensed captains know the local waters and target seasonal species throughout the year.

Popular departure locations include Montauk, often called one of the premier sportfishing destinations on the East Coast, along with Port Jefferson, Freeport, Captree State Park, and Greenport. Charter boats also depart from many smaller marinas along the Great South Bay, Great Peconic Bay, Long Island Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Depending on the season, charter captains target striped bass, fluke, black sea bass, porgy, bluefish, blackfish (tautog), tuna, mahi-mahi, sharks, cod, and other species. Half-day, full-day, and offshore excursions are widely available, with many charters providing rods, reels, bait, tackle, and fish-cleaning services.

Before booking a trip, ask whether fishing licenses or saltwater registry requirements are included, what species are currently in season, and whether the charter supplies equipment and bait. Most captains are happy to accommodate beginners as well as experienced anglers.

Quick Facts

Charter Information	General Information
Popular Departure Ports	Montauk, Port Jefferson, Freeport, Captree State Park, and Greenport.
Common Species	Striped bass, fluke, porgy, black sea bass, bluefish, blackfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, sharks, and more.
Trip Lengths	Half-day, full-day, evening, and offshore trips are commonly available.
Equipment	Many charters provide rods, reels, bait, tackle, and fish-cleaning services.
Experience Level	Trips are available for beginners, families, and experienced anglers alike.
Before You Book	Confirm what’s included, review seasonal fishing regulations, and ask whether any required registrations are handled by the charter.

From inshore fishing on the bays to offshore adventures in the Atlantic, Long Island offers charter fishing opportunities for anglers of every skill level. For additional fishing information, including popular fishing spots, licenses, and seasonal tips, visit our Long Island Fishing guide.