Ready to get your hands on some serious Chesapeake Bay action? Our 6-hour fishing charter out of Baltimore is your ticket to some of the best rockfish action around. We're talking striped bass central, folks. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our crew's got the know-how to put you on the fish. We'll be trolling and live lining our way to success, targeting those big, beautiful stripers that make the Bay famous. And hey, with room for six, you can bring the whole crew along for the ride. Just remember, the fish are biting, and spots are going fast – so don't sleep on booking your trip!
When you step aboard one of our Ditch Hag Sportfishing Charters, you're in for a real treat. We'll cruise out into the Chesapeake, where the rockfish are thick and the action is hot. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're all about putting you on the fish. We'll be using tried-and-true techniques like trolling with planer boards and live lining spot – methods that have been filling coolers for years. You'll learn the ropes, set your own lines, and feel that rush when a big striper hits. And don't worry if you're new to this – our crew is patient and always happy to show you the ropes. Just be ready for some serious pulls and maybe a bit of friendly competition to see who lands the biggest catch of the day!
Alright, let's talk shop. On our charters, we're not messing around with amateur hour tactics. We're using the good stuff that consistently puts fish in the boat. Trolling is our bread and butter – we'll set out a spread of lines with lures that mimic baitfish, dragging them behind the boat at just the right speed. It's like a buffet line for hungry stripers. When the bite is really on, we'll switch to live lining. This is where it gets exciting. We'll catch some live spot (a favorite snack for big rockfish) and hook them up so they swim naturally. When a big striper sees that tasty morsel, it's game on. You'll feel the rod bend, set the hook, and the fight is on. We've got all the gear you need – top-notch rods, reels, and tackle. Just bring your game face and maybe a pair of pliers for those trophy pics.
Striped Bass (Rockfish): These are the crown jewels of the Chesapeake. Stripers are hard-fighting, great-eating fish that can grow to impressive sizes. We're talking about fish that can top 40 inches and put up a fight that'll make your arms burn. They're migratory, so timing is everything. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but we can find them year-round if you know where to look (and we do). When you hook into a big striper, you'll know it – they pull like a freight train and don't give up easily. It's the kind of fish that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
White Perch: Don't let their size fool you – these little fighters punch above their weight class. White perch might not be the biggest fish in the Bay, but they're abundant, scrappy, and delicious. We often catch these guys while targeting other species, and they're a blast on light tackle. They school up, so when you find them, it's often non-stop action. Perfect for keeping the rods bent when the big boys aren't biting. Plus, they're excellent table fare – perfect for a fish fry back at the dock.
Hardhead Sea Catfish: These whiskered bottom-dwellers are a staple of Chesapeake Bay fishing. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but they're tough fighters and can provide steady action when other species are being finicky. Hardheads love to hang around structure and will eagerly gobble up cut bait or shrimp. While they're not typically the main target, they're a fun by-catch that can save a slow day. Just watch out for those spines when you're unhooking them – they pack a punch!
Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing the Chesapeake that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the thrill of battling a big striper as it tries to dive under the boat. Or the satisfaction of filling a cooler with tasty white perch for a family fish fry. Could be the stunning sunrises over the Bay as we head out to our honey holes. Whatever it is, our regulars can't get enough. We've got families who've been fishing with us for generations, introducing their kids to the joys of the catch. And let's not forget the bragging rights – nothing beats showing off pics of your trophy rockfish to jealous buddies back home. Plus, with our expert guides, even newbies can feel like pros by the end of the day. It's not just fishing; it's making memories that'll last a lifetime.
Alright, folks, here's the deal – the fish are biting, and our calendar is filling up faster than a live well full of spot. If you're itching to get out on the Chesapeake and tangle with some serious stripers, now's the time to lock in your date. Remember, we've only got room for six on the boat, so gather your crew and give us a shout. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer with some delicious fillets or just want to experience the rush of battling big Bay fish, we've got you covered. Don't let this season's hot bite pass you by – those rockfish aren't going to catch themselves! Head over to our booking page or give us a call to secure your spot. Just a heads up, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're ready to commit to a day of rod-bending, drag-screaming action. Trust me, once you've fished with Ditch Hag Sportfishing Charters, you'll be hooked for life. Let's get you on the water and into some fish!
Hardhead sea catfish aren't exactly a prized catch, but they're a common sight in the Bay. These bottom-feeders usually run 12-18 inches and a couple pounds, though some can reach 3 feet. You'll find them in muddy shallows and estuaries year-round. They're not known for their fight or flavor, but they'll eagerly take just about any bait. Shrimp is especially effective. Hardheads are mostly caught while targeting other species. If you do land one, handle with care - those pectoral and dorsal spines pack a nasty sting. A good pair of pliers is your best friend for unhooking these slimy critters. While not a target species, hardheads can provide steady action when other fish aren't biting. Just mind those spines and you'll be fine.
Striped bass, or "rockfish" as we call 'em here, are the crown jewel of Chesapeake fishing. These powerful fighters usually run 20-40 pounds, but trophy-sized 70-pounders aren't unheard of. You'll find them near structure along shorelines, especially where there's moving water. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate through the Bay. Stripers put up an impressive fight and make for great eating too. To boost your chances, try live-lining spot or menhaden - it's a local favorite technique. Just drift your bait near channel edges or underwater points. When you feel that telltale thump, get ready for some real action. There's nothing quite like the rush of a big striper on the line.
White perch may be small, but they're one of the Bay's most fun and abundant catches. Averaging 7-10 inches, these scrappy little fighters punch above their weight. You'll find them in brackish waters near shore, often in big schools. Spring is prime time as they move into tributaries to spawn. White perch are perfect for light tackle and great for introducing kids to fishing. They're also excellent table fare with sweet, flaky meat. To load up the cooler, try using a simple bottom rig with bloodworms or grass shrimp. Fish near pilings, fallen trees, or other structure. When you find a school, it's not uncommon to catch them two at a time. Just remember to check regulations, as limits can change.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 450