Ready to level up your fishing game in Baltimore? This 6-hour extended half-day trip is tailor-made for serious anglers looking to maximize their time on the water and tangle with some of the Chesapeake Bay's hardest-fighting fish. We're talking trophy-sized striped bass, hefty catfish, and scrappy white perch that'll put your skills to the test. Captain Gus knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got all the local intel to put you on the fish. So grab your lucky hat and let's hit the Bay for some world-class fishing action!
Picture this: You're cruising out on a sweet 41-foot Downeast-style boat, with plenty of elbow room to cast and reel in the big ones. We're not messing around here – this trip is designed for anglers who know their stuff and want to dial in their techniques. Captain Gus will have you trolling the deep channels for monster stripers one minute, then switching gears to bottom fish the Bay's structure-rich honey holes the next. The goal? Keeping those rods bent and the fish coming over the rails all day long. And with top-notch gear provided, you'll have everything you need to make it happen.
Alright, let's break down how we're gonna put some fish in the box. Trolling is the name of the game when we're after those big striped bass. We'll be dragging a spread of lures behind the boat, mimicking schools of baitfish to entice those cow stripers to strike. When it comes to catfish and perch, we're talking about good old-fashioned bottom fishing. We'll anchor up on some prime spots, drop down cut bait or bloodworms, and let those whisker-fish and perch do the rest. Captain Gus has got all the local tricks up his sleeve – from finding the right tide to knowing which structure holds the fish. You'll be picking his brain all day, guaranteed.
Striped Bass: The undisputed king of the Chesapeake, stripers (or rockfish, as the locals call 'em) are what dreams are made of. These bruisers can top 40 pounds and will test your drag like nobody's business. Spring and fall are prime time, but summer can produce some monsters too. There's nothing quite like the thrill of a big striper crushing a topwater lure at dawn.
White Perch: Don't let their size fool you – these feisty little fighters punch well above their weight class. Averaging 8-12 inches, white perch are abundant in the Bay and make for some of the tastiest fish fries you'll ever have. They school up in huge numbers, so when you find 'em, it's game on. Light tackle enthusiasts, this is your jam.
Hardhead Sea Catfish: Also known as "croakers" due to the grunting sound they make, these whiskered bottom-dwellers are a Baltimore staple. They might not win any beauty contests, but they put up a solid fight and are mighty tasty on the dinner plate. Summer is prime time for cats, and they love hanging around oyster bars and channel edges.
Listen, there's a reason why Ditch Hag Sportfishing Charters is a customer favorite in Baltimore. It's not just about catching fish (though we do plenty of that). It's about the whole experience. You're out there on a comfortable, well-equipped boat with a captain who lives and breathes these waters. The extended half-day format gives you time to really dial in your techniques and explore different spots. And let's be real – there's nothing like that rush when a big fish slams your bait and the reel starts screaming. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day on the water with your buddies, this trip delivers the goods.
So there you have it, folks – a no-nonsense, action-packed fishing adventure right in Baltimore's backyard. If you're an experienced angler looking to up your game or a group wanting to test your skills against some of the Bay's toughest fighters, this is the trip for you. Remember, spots are limited to 6 anglers max, so don't sleep on this one. Give Captain Gus a shout, lock in your date, and get ready for some serious rod-bending action. The fish are waiting – are you ready to meet 'em?
Hardheads are the catfish of the salt, common in our estuaries and nearshore waters. They usually run 1-3 pounds, maxing out around 12. You'll find them over muddy or sandy bottoms, often in river mouths. They're most active in warmer months but move to deeper water in winter. Anglers have a love-hate relationship with hardheads - they're not prized eating fish, but they put up a decent fight and are easy to catch. Just watch out for those venomous spines! Use shrimp on a bottom rig and you're almost guaranteed action. Here's a tip: if you're catching too many hardheads, try moving to faster current or switching to artificial lures. While they're not our target species, hardheads can be a fun by-catch when the other fish aren't biting.
Stripers are the heavyweight champs of the Chesapeake. These brutes typically run 20-40 pounds but can top 70. Look for them around structure and drop-offs, especially early morning or late evening when they're actively feeding. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate through. Anglers love 'em for their powerful fights - when a big striper hits, hold on tight! They're also excellent eating. For the best shot at landing one, try live-lining spot or menhaden near channel edges. Just remember to match your gear to these bruisers - I recommend at least 20-pound test line and a medium-heavy rod. Nothing beats the thrill of battling a trophy striper in the Bay.
Don't let their size fool you - white perch pack a punch for a small fish. Most run 7-10 inches, rarely over a pound, but they're a blast on light tackle. You'll find them schooling in brackish waters, especially around docks and pilings. Spring is prime time as they move into tributaries to spawn. Anglers love targeting perch for their aggressive bite and excellent table fare. They're also great for introducing kids to fishing. My go-to rig is a simple bottom setup with bloodworms or grass shrimp. For a real treat, try jigging small soft plastics when you find a school - you can often catch them two at a time. White perch might not be glamorous, but they're one of the most reliable and fun fish in the Bay.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 450