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Upper Chesapeake Bay Cruise | Ditch Hag Charters
- Published Date: July 16, 2025
- Fishing
- Baltimore
- $550 - $650 price range
- Updated Date: August 21, 2025
Summary
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Bay Views & Bites
Drop a line, find your calm.
Rod, reel, and relaxation.
Hook, line, and happiness.
Where the fish are, I’ll be.
Casting lines, catching memories.
Good things come to those who bait.
Hooked on a good time.
Reel fun out on the water.
Chasing fish, chasing peace.
Fishing days are the best days.
Drop a line, find your calm.
Rod, reel, and relaxation.
Hook, line, and happiness.
Where the fish are, I’ll be.
Casting lines, catching memories.
Good things come to those who bait.
Hooked on a good time.
Reel fun out on the water.
Chasing fish, chasing peace.
Fishing days are the best days.
Drop a line, find your calm.
Rod, reel, and relaxation.
Hook, line, and happiness.
Where the fish are, I’ll be.
Chesapeake Cruise: Catfish, Bass & Perch Fun
Hey there, fellow bay lovers! Ready for a laid-back afternoon on the water? Hop aboard the Ditch Hag for a sweet cruise to some of the best waterfront eateries the upper Chesapeake has to offer. We're talking killer views, good eats, and zero stress. Whether you're in the mood for a casual crab shack or want to get fancy at a high-end spot, we've got you covered. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you can kick back and focus on what really matters - the food, the scenery, and the company. It's the perfect way to celebrate anything from big milestones to "just because" days. Fair warning though, once you try this, you might get hooked on bay life!
What's the Deal?
Picture this: You and up to five of your favorite people, cruising the calm waters of the Chesapeake, with nothing but good times ahead. We'll set sail in the afternoon, when the light's just right for some killer photos. As we make our way to your restaurant of choice, you'll get an up-close look at the bay's shoreline - we're talking picturesque coves, historic lighthouses, and maybe even some wildlife if we're lucky. Our boat, the Ditch Hag, is set up for comfort, so you can relax and soak it all in. And hey, if you want to wet a line along the way, we're all for it! Just remember, this trip is all about the journey AND the destination.
Smooth Sailing 101
Alright, let's talk boat basics. The Ditch Hag is a sturdy vessel, perfect for these waters. We've got plenty of seating, shade if you need it, and a smooth ride that'll keep your pre-dinner drinks from spilling. No need to bring any fancy gear - just your appetite and maybe a light jacket for when the sun starts to dip. We'll handle all the navigation, so you can focus on enjoying the ride. And if you're new to boating, don't sweat it! Our crew is always happy to give you the lowdown on bay etiquette and answer any questions you've got. It's all part of the service, folks.
Why Folks Keep Coming Back
Let me tell you, once people try this trip, they're hooked faster than a hungry rockfish. It's not just about getting to a restaurant - it's about making the whole evening an event. Our regulars love how it turns a simple dinner out into a mini-adventure. Plus, there's something special about arriving at a restaurant by boat. You feel like a VIP, and trust me, the sunset views from the water beat any landlocked patio. It's also a hit for celebrations - we've seen everything from proposals to retirement parties on board. And the best part? No designated driver needed!
Fish You Might Spot
While we're cruising to dinner, keep your eyes peeled for some of the Chesapeake's most famous residents. Striped bass, or "rockfish" as we call 'em around here, are the kings of the bay. These silver-sided beauties can grow up to 50 pounds and put up one heck of a fight. Late spring and early fall are prime time for spotting them near the surface.
White perch might be smaller, but they're a local favorite. These tasty little guys hang out near structures and shorelines. If you see a bunch of small fish breaking the surface, there's a good chance it's a school of white perch chasing bait.
And let's not forget about the hardhead sea catfish. These bottom-dwellers might not win any beauty contests with their whisker-like barbels, but they're a staple of the bay ecosystem. They love warm water, so you'll see more of them in the summer months. Fun fact: they make a croaking sound when caught, earning them the nickname "sea croakers."
Ready to Set Sail?
Alright, folks, here's the deal - this isn't just a boat ride, it's a ticket to making some seriously good memories. Whether you're looking to impress a date, treat the family to something special, or just shake up your usual dinner plans, we've got you covered. The Chesapeake's calling, and trust me, you don't want to miss this. Spots fill up fast, especially on those perfect summer evenings, so don't wait too long to book. Give us a shout, and we'll get you set up for an afternoon (and evening) you won't forget. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Hardhead Sea Catfish
Hardhead catfish are the love-'em-or-hate-'em fish of the Bay. They're not glamorous, but they're plentiful and put up a decent fight. Most run 12 inches and a couple pounds, though some can hit 28 inches. You'll find them in muddy or sandy bottoms near river mouths and in brackish water. They're year-round residents, but move to deeper water in winter. Anglers often catch them while targeting other species. They're not known for great eating, but they're fun to catch. Use shrimp for bait - these guys are notorious bait stealers. Watch out for those sharp, venomous spines when handling them. Here's a tip: if you're catching a lot of hardheads, try moving to a different spot. They often school up, so changing location can help you target other species. Just remember, every fish has its place in the Bay's ecosystem.
Striped Bass
Striped bass are the rockstars of the Chesapeake. These powerful fish typically run 20-40 pounds, with some monsters pushing 70. Look for them around structure like reefs, sandbars, and drop-offs. They love moving water, so you'll often find them within casting distance of shore. Spring and fall are prime seasons as stripers migrate. Anglers prize them for their hard-fighting spirit and delicious meat. To boost your chances, try live bait like herring or menhaden - stripers can be picky eaters. I recommend an 8-14 foot rod with braided line for sensitivity and strength. Dawn and dusk are magic hours. Keep an eye out for diving birds or baitfish getting pushed to the surface - that's a dead giveaway stripers are feeding below. Nothing beats the thrill of battling one of these silver-sided beauties on light tackle.
White Perch
White perch are the unsung heroes of Chesapeake fishing. Don't let their small size fool you - these scrappy fighters punch above their weight. Most run 7-10 inches, rarely topping a pound. You'll find them in brackish waters, especially tributaries and estuaries. Spring is prime time, as they migrate to spawn when water hits 50-60°F. Anglers love 'em for their abundance and tasty flesh. They're perfect for introducing kids to fishing - action is often fast and furious. I like using a 6-7 foot light rod with 4-8 pound test. Bloodworms and minnows are top baits, but soft plastics work great too. Here's a local trick: look for shadowy areas in warm, shallow water. White perch love hanging out there. Jig your bait to mimic prey movement and hold on tight - you might catch a double!
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
