Get ready for a morning of non-stop action on the Chesapeake Bay! Our extended half-day trip puts you right in the thick of Baltimore's best fishing spots. We're talking catfish, bass, and perch - a trifecta of fun that'll keep your rod bent and your cooler full. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our crew's got the inside scoop on where the fish are biting and how to reel 'em in.
You'll be cruising out with Ditch Hag Sportfishing Charters, the local pros who know every nook and cranny of the Bay. We've got room for up to six anglers, so bring your buddies or make some new ones on board. The morning bite is often the hottest, so we'll hit the water early to maximize your chances. No food on this trip, but feel free to pack some snacks to keep your energy up. Our focus is on the fish, and trust me, there's plenty to go around.
Rockfish (that's what we call striped bass around here) are the stars of the show right now. We'll be using tried-and-true methods like trolling and live lining to put you on the fish. Trolling's great for covering water and finding active schools, while live lining with spot or eels can entice those bigger, lazier fish to strike. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques - our guides will walk you through every step, from setting up your rig to playing that monster fish all the way to the net.
Striped Bass (Rockfish): These are the heavyweight champs of the Chesapeake. They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. Spring and fall are prime times, but we can find them year-round. Expect fish in the 20-30 inch range, with the potential for some real wall-hangers over 40 inches. There's nothing quite like the thrill of a big striper crushing your bait on the surface.
White Perch: Don't let their size fool you - these scrappy little fighters punch well above their weight class. They school up in huge numbers, so when you find them, it's often non-stop action. Best of all, they're delicious. Fry 'em up whole or fillet for some of the sweetest meat in the Bay. We typically catch them in the 8-12 inch range, perfect for the table.
Hardhead Sea Catfish: These whisker-fish might not win any beauty contests, but they're a blast to catch and great eating too. They love to hang out near structure and will readily take cut bait or shrimp. Expect fish in the 1-3 pound range, with some bruisers pushing 5 pounds or more. Just watch out for those spines when you're unhooking them!
The Chesapeake Bay is a fishing paradise, and our extended half-day trips give you the perfect taste of what it has to offer. We're not just about catching fish (though we do plenty of that) - it's about the whole experience. You'll learn new techniques, hear some local fish stories, and maybe even start some of your own. Our guides are passionate about what they do, and that enthusiasm is contagious. Before you know it, you'll be planning your next trip before this one's even over.
Listen, the fish are biting, and spots on our charter are filling up fast. This is prime time on the Chesapeake, and you don't want to miss out. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer, learn some new tricks, or just enjoy a morning on the water, we've got you covered. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so when you book, you're locked in for a great day of fishing. Don't wait until the bite slows down or the weather turns - get out here and wet a line with us. Give us a call or book online, and we'll see you at the dock. Tight lines!
Hardhead catfish are common catches in the Bay, usually 12-18 inches long. They hang out near muddy or sandy bottoms in shallow areas. These catfish will eat just about anything, making them easy to catch year-round. Use shrimp for bait and you'll likely hook one. Watch out for their sharp spines when handling - they can give a nasty poke. While not the most prized catch, hardheads put up a decent fight for their size. They're most active in warmer months but move to deeper water in winter. If you're after other species, these guys might be considered a nuisance. But for beginners or kids looking for steady action, hardheads can be a good target. Pro tip: try fishing near river mouths or around oyster beds where they like to feed.
Striped bass, or "stripers," are a favorite target in the Chesapeake. These powerful fish typically run 20-40 pounds, with some monsters hitting 70. Look for them near structure and moving water, especially early or late in the day. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Stripers put up a great fight and make excellent eating, so they're popular with all skill levels. To improve your odds, try live-lining with spot or menhaden - it's a local go-to technique. Just remember, they can be picky eaters, so matching the hatch is key. When you hook one, hang on tight - these fish will test your gear and your arms. There's nothing quite like the thrill of battling a big striper in the Bay.
White perch are small but scrappy fighters, usually 7-10 inches and under a pound. Don't let the size fool you - they're fun to catch and great eating. You'll find them in brackish waters and tributaries around the Bay, often in big schools. Spring is prime time as they move into shallower areas to spawn. Early morning and evening are your best bets. Light tackle is perfect - a 6-7 foot rod with 4-8 pound line will do the trick. For bait, bloodworms or minnows are hard to beat. If you're after a mess of perch for a fish fry, try using multiple hook rigs. A local secret: cast near submerged logs or pier pilings where they like to hide out. White perch might not be the biggest fish in the Bay, but they more than make up for it in numbers and taste.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 450