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Baltimore's Best Beginner Fishing Trip | Ditch Hag
BaltimoreWhat you will be catching:
Hardhead Sea Catfish
Striped Bass
White Perch
Trip Pricing and Availabilities :
No trip pricing information available at this time.
Beginner's Guide to Baltimore Fishing
Hey there, newbie angler! Ready to test the waters in Charm City? Captain Gus has got you covered with this laid-back 6-hour trip that's perfect for first-timers and families. You'll be cruising the Baltimore harbor in style on a roomy 41-foot boat, learning the ropes of fishing without any pressure. Whether you're 8 or 80, this trip is all about having fun and hopefully landing your first big catch.
What to Expect on the Water
Don't sweat it if you've never held a rod before – that's what Captain Gus is here for. He'll show you the basics of bottom fishing and trolling, two easy techniques that even kids can pick up quickly. The boat's got plenty of space to move around, so you can find your sea legs without feeling cramped. And hey, if you need a break from fishing, kick back and enjoy the views of the Baltimore skyline. Just remember, the deposit's non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book.
Fishing 101: Gear and Techniques
Leave your tackle box at home – Captain Gus has got all the gear you'll need. He'll set you up with simple rods and reels that are perfect for beginners. Bottom fishing is as easy as it sounds: drop your line to the bottom and wait for a bite. Trolling's a bit more active – you'll be slowly dragging lures behind the boat. Both methods are great for catching the local favorites without needing pro-level skills. And don't worry about tangled lines or lost lures – the captain's seen it all and is always ready to lend a hand.
Top Catches This Season
Baltimore's waters are teeming with some real crowd-pleasers. You've got a good shot at hooking striped bass, white perch, and hardhead sea catfish. These aren't just any fish – they're the local rockstars of the Chesapeake Bay. Each one puts up a different kind of fight, so you'll get a taste of what makes fishing so addictive. Plus, if you're lucky enough to catch a keeper, you'll have bragging rights for days.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Striped Bass: Also known as rockfish, these are the heavyweight champs of the bay. They can grow up to 30 inches or more, and when they hit your line, you'll know it. Stripers are most active in the cooler months, but you can catch them year-round if you know where to look. They're not just fun to catch – they're delicious too, with firm, white meat that's perfect for grilling.
White Perch: Don't let their size fool you – these little fighters punch above their weight class. Usually around 8-10 inches, white perch are abundant in the Chesapeake and its tributaries. They're active all year but really turn on in the warmer months. Kids love catching these because they bite readily and put up a scrappy fight on light tackle. Plus, they're tasty if you want to take some home for dinner.
Hardhead Sea Catfish: These whiskered bottom-dwellers are the underdogs of Baltimore fishing. They might not win any beauty contests, but they're a blast to catch. Hardheads typically range from 1-2 pounds and have a knack for finding your bait. They're most active in the summer when the water warms up. While they're not the preferred eating fish for most folks, catching one is a rite of passage for Chesapeake Bay anglers.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
It's not just about the fish – it's about the experience. Captain Gus has a knack for making everyone feel like a pro, even if you're just figuring out which end of the rod to hold. The relaxed vibe on board means you can ask all those "dumb" questions without feeling, well, dumb. And let's be real – there's something special about being out on the water, away from the hustle of the city. Whether you catch a monster or just enjoy the ride, you'll come back to shore with some good stories and maybe even a new hobby.
Time to Book Your Spot
Look, we all gotta start somewhere, and this trip is the perfect launchpad for your fishing career. With Captain Gus's know-how, top-notch gear, and a boat that's more comfortable than your living room, you're set up for a great day on the water. Whether you're looking to entertain the kids, try something new with your buddies, or just escape the grind for a few hours, this trip's got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the Ditch Hag and get ready to make some waves in Baltimore. Who knows – you might just get hooked on fishing for life!
Learn more about the species
Hardhead Sea Catfish
Hardhead catfish are common catches in our waters, usually 12-18 inches long. Look for them near river mouths and in estuaries with muddy or sandy bottoms. They're bottom feeders, so that's where you'll want to drop your line. These cats are active year-round but move to deeper water in winter. Now, they're not the most prized catch - the meat can be a bit fishy. But they put up a decent fight for their size and are easy to catch, making them good practice for new anglers. Use shrimp as bait - these guys will bite almost anything. Word of warning though: be careful handling them. They've got sharp, venomous spines that can give you a nasty poke. Local tip: if you're aiming for other fish but keep catching hardheads, try moving to a different spot. They tend to school up and dominate an area.
Striped Bass
Striped bass are a real favorite around here. These fish can grow pretty big - we often catch 'em in the 20-40 pound range. Look for stripers near structures like reefs or drop-offs, especially in moving water. They love to hang out along shorelines hunting for food. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're migrating. Anglers get fired up about stripers because they put up an awesome fight and taste great too. If you want to land one, try using live bait like herring or menhaden - stripers can be picky eaters. Cast your line early morning or evening for best results. Pro tip: Use a sensitive rod with braided line to feel those subtle bites. Just watch out for those spines when you're handling them!
White Perch
Don't let the name fool you - white perch are actually part of the bass family. These little guys usually run 7-10 inches and under a pound, but they make up for size in numbers. You'll find them in brackish waters like the Chesapeake Bay, especially near shore. Spring is prime time, when they move into rivers to spawn. White perch are fun to catch because they school up, so you can often hook several in quick succession. They're also tasty eating fish. To catch 'em, try small jigs or live bait like bloodworms. Fish early morning or evening in shaded areas where the water's a bit cooler. Here's a local trick: use multiple hook rigs to catch more at once. White perch aren't too picky, so they're great for beginners looking to practice their technique.
About the Chesapeake Deadrise
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 450
