Hey there, bay lovers! Ready for a laid-back day on the water with some seriously good eats? Hop aboard the Ditch Hag for a chill 6-hour cruise to some of the Upper Chesapeake's best waterfront restaurants. We're talking killer views, tasty grub, and zero stress – just the way a day on the bay should be.
Picture this: You and up to five of your favorite people, kicking back on a comfy boat as we cruise the Upper Chesapeake. No need to fight traffic or worry about directions – our expert crew's got you covered. We'll motor on over to your pick of waterfront spots, from casual crab shacks to fancy seafood joints. It's all about soaking in those peaceful shoreline views, catching up with your crew, and working up an appetite for some killer local cuisine. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because it's Tuesday and you deserve something awesome.
Our trusty vessel, the Ditch Hag, is your ticket to a stress-free day on the bay. She's got plenty of space to spread out, comfy seating, and all the safety gear you need. We'll handle the navigation while you focus on the important stuff – like deciding between the crab cakes or the rockfish once we dock. The Upper Chesapeake's got a mix of calm waters and open bay, so you'll get a taste of everything without any white-knuckle moments. It's smooth sailing all the way to your lunch or dinner spot.
Let me tell you, there's something special about cruising to dinner instead of driving. Our regulars love how it turns a simple meal out into a full-on adventure. You get to see the bay from a whole new angle, spot some wildlife (keep your eyes peeled for ospreys and herons!), and arrive at the restaurant feeling like a million bucks. Plus, no designated driver needed – we've got you covered for the ride home. It's the kind of trip that has people booking again before we even get back to the dock.
While we're not fishing on this trip, you can bet we'll see some action out on the water. The Upper Chesapeake is teeming with life, and here are a few local celebrities you might spot:
Striped Bass (aka Rockfish): These are the Bay's rock stars. They can grow up to 50 pounds and put up one heck of a fight. Spring and fall are prime time for these beauties, and they're a favorite target for anglers. You might see them busting up the surface chasing bait – it's a sight to behold!
White Perch: Don't let their size fool you – these feisty little guys are a blast to catch and even better to eat. They hang out in schools, so where there's one, there's usually more. Summer's when they really shine, and they love hanging around structure like pilings and fallen trees.
Hardhead Sea Catfish: These whiskered bottom-dwellers are the unsung heroes of the bay. They're not the prettiest fish in the sea, but they're tough as nails and put up a good scrap. Late summer's when they're most active, and they've got a soft spot for stinky bait. Just watch out for those spines!
Alright, folks – ready to trade the highway for the waterway? This 6-hour cruise is your ticket to the perfect mix of relaxation, good food, and Chesapeake Bay views that'll have you wondering why you don't do this every weekend. Remember, we've only got room for six, so don't wait to lock in your spot. Grab your crew, pick a date, and let's make some waves (and memories) out on the bay. Oh, and just a heads up – deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. See you on the Ditch Hag!
Hardhead sea catfish are an interesting catch in the upper Bay. They average 12 inches and a few pounds, with some topping 20 inches. Look for them in muddy-bottom areas near river mouths. They feed aggressively year-round but are most active in warmer months. While not a prime eating fish, hardheads put up a decent fight for their size. Anglers enjoy their unique appearance with whisker-like barbels. Be careful handling them though - those fins have a mild venom. For the best luck, use fresh shrimp on a bottom rig. And here's a tip: if you're catching lots of small ones, try upsizing your bait to target bigger fish. They may not be glamorous, but hardheads can save a slow day on the water.
Striped bass are the rockstars of the Chesapeake. These powerful fish can grow over 40 pounds, with most catches in the 20-30 pound range. Look for them around structure like bridge pilings or drop-offs. They love moving water, so tidal rips and river mouths are prime spots. Spring and fall are the best seasons as stripers migrate through. Anglers love their hard-fighting spirit - when a big one hits, hold on tight! They're also fantastic eating fish with firm, white meat. For the best shot at landing one, try live-lining spot or using big bucktails at dawn or dusk. Just remember to check current regulations, as limits can change to protect the population.
White perch may be small, but they're a blast to catch. Most run 7-10 inches and under a pound. You'll find them in brackish areas like tributaries and shorelines. Spring is prime time, as they move into rivers to spawn when water hits 50-60°F. White perch are perfect for introducing kids to fishing - they're abundant and eager biters. Plus, they're tasty eating despite their size. To load the cooler, try fishing early morning or evening with small jigs tipped with bloodworms. A local trick: use a light rod with multiple hooks to catch several at once when you find a school. It's non-stop action when they're biting.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 17
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 450