Hey there, fellow angler! Ready to push your limits and chase some of the Atlantic's most prized game fish? This full-day offshore trip out of Montauk is the real deal. We're talking 14 hours of non-stop action, targeting everything from hard-fighting tuna to acrobatic mahi-mahi. Captain Rob knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on the fish of a lifetime. So grab your sea legs and let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do for serious fishermen.
First things first: this ain't no leisurely cruise. We're leaving the dock at 2:30 AM sharp, so pack some strong coffee and your A-game. As we steam out past the Montauk lighthouse, you'll feel the anticipation building. Once we hit the offshore grounds, it's all hands on deck. We'll be using a mix of trolling and live baiting techniques, depending on what's working that day. Expect to tangle with yellowfin and bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, blue and white marlin, and even sharks if you're up for it. The action can be fast and furious, so be ready to work those guns hauling in these monsters. Don't worry if you're new to offshore fishing - Cap'n Rob's got your back with expert coaching throughout the day.
Leave your light tackle at home, folks. We're bringing out the big guns for this trip. Captain Rob provides top-notch Penn International and Shimano Tiagra reels, paired with custom rods built to handle the beasts we're after. We'll be using a mix of spreader bars, daisy chains, and cedar plugs for trolling, plus some live bait rigs when we mark fish on the sonar. The boat's equipped with state-of-the-art fish-finding tech, outriggers, and a fighting chair for when things get serious. All you need to bring is your own food and drinks, sunscreen, and a never-say-die attitude. Oh, and don't forget a camera - you're gonna want proof of these catches!
Yellowfin Tuna: These torpedoes are the bread and butter of Montauk's offshore scene. Known for their blistering runs and delicious meat, yellowfin can push 100 pounds out here. They usually show up in June and stick around through October. Once hooked, be ready for a workout - these guys don't give up easily.
Bluefin Tuna: The heavyweight champs of the Atlantic. Bluefin in these waters can top 500 pounds, though most we catch are in the 100-300 pound range. They're here from July through September, and landing one of these giants is a true bucket-list experience. Their power is unmatched, so make sure your drag is set right!
Mahi-Mahi: Also called dorado, these acrobatic fighters are a blast on lighter tackle. We often find them near floating debris or weed lines. Their electric blue and green colors are a sight to behold, and they make for some of the best eating you'll ever have. Peak season is August through October.
Blue Marlin: The holy grail of offshore fishing. While not as common as tuna, when a blue marlin crashes the spread, it's pure chaos. These billfish can top 500 pounds and put on an aerial show like no other. Most of our marlin encounters happen in August and September. Even if we release them (which we often do), the memory of battling one will last a lifetime.
Look, I've been running charters out of Montauk for over 20 years, and this full-day offshore trip is hands down the most exciting thing we offer. There's just something special about being 50 miles out, surrounded by nothing but blue water, when suddenly your reel starts screaming. The rush of adrenaline, the teamwork needed to land a big fish, and the sense of accomplishment when you finally get it to the boat - it's addictive. Plus, the variety of species we target means no two trips are ever the same. One day you might be filling the box with yellowfin, the next you could be going toe-to-toe with a blue marlin. It's fishing at its finest, pure and simple.
Alright, let's cut to the chase. This trip runs from June 5th to October 15th, and spots fill up fast. At $3,695 for the whole boat (up to 6 people), it's a steal for a full day of world-class offshore action. Remember, everything's included except for your grub and drinks. Captain Rob will even clean and fillet your catch at the end of the day - talk about service! All it takes is a small, non-refundable deposit to lock in your date. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call, and let's get you out there for the fishing adventure of a lifetime. The tuna are calling, and Montauk's offshore grounds are waiting. See you on the water!
Black sea bass are a staple here in Montauk. These tasty bottom-dwellers usually run 1-3 pounds, but we see some up to 8 pounds in deeper water. You'll find them around wrecks, reefs, and rocky structure from spring through fall. They're aggressive feeders and put up a good scrap on light tackle. Use squid or cut bait on a simple two-hook rig. Once you find a school, the action can be non-stop. Anglers love sea bass for their firm, white meat - some of the best eating fish out there. One local trick: when you're reeling one up, pause halfway. Often, a bigger bass will follow it up and grab your bait. Double-headers aren't uncommon. Just remember to check the regs, as size and bag limits can change. Sea bass fishing is a great way to fill the cooler while having a blast.
Blues are the bad boys of Montauk. These aggressive fighters typically run 3-10 pounds, but we see some real bruisers over 20. They show up in late spring and stick around through fall, often in big schools that churn up the surface. Look for birds diving or bait fish jumping - that's often blues on the hunt. They'll hit just about anything shiny or noisy. Metal lures, poppers, even cut bait all work well. Blues put up a mean fight and are known for their slashing strikes. Watch those teeth when you're unhooking them! While not everyone's favorite for eating, smoked bluefish is a local delicacy. Pro tip: when you see them blitzing on the surface, cast right into the frenzy and hold on tight. It's an adrenaline rush like no other when a big blue slams your lure.
Scup, or porgies as we call 'em, are scrappy little fighters that make for some fun light-tackle action. They usually run 8-12 inches but can get up to 18. You'll find them hanging around rocky bottoms and pilings from May through October. They're bottom feeders, so fish close to structure. Use small hooks baited with clams, squid, or worms. When you find a school, it's often non-stop action. Kids love catching these guys. While they're not huge, scup put up a good fight for their size and are tasty eating. One tip: try a high-low rig with small jigs tipped with bait. Bounce it slowly off the bottom and hang on - when they're biting, you might pull up two at a time. Best part is, there's usually plenty to go around for a good fish fry back at the dock.
Stripers are a favorite around Montauk, and for good reason. These powerful fish typically run 20-40 pounds, though the big ones can top 70. Look for them near shorelines, reefs, and drop-offs. They love moving water, so tides and currents are your friend. Spring and fall migrations bring the best action, but summer nights can be hot too. Anglers prize stripers for their strong fights and excellent table fare. To boost your odds, try live eels or bunker at dawn or dusk. When you see birds working bait balls, that's often a sign stripers are feeding below. One local trick: troll wire line with umbrella rigs along deep structure - the big girls can't resist. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them. Nothing beats the thrill of a big striper crushing your bait and peeling line.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cat
Maximum Cruising Speed: 15
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 800