Meet Captain Gus Clifton Jr

Captain Gus Clifton Jr. brings more than four decades of experience to the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. With 45 years of fishing and crabbing under his belt, he has built a reputation as one of the region’s most knowledgeable and dependable captains. Born and raised along the bay, Captain Gus grew up with a rod in hand and a deep respect for the area’s fisheries. His time on the water has been spent learning the tides, tracking fish behavior, and perfecting the techniques that continue to deliver results for his guests today.

Fishing is more than a profession for Captain Gus—it’s part of who he is. His calm approach, deep local knowledge, and clear communication make him an excellent teacher for beginners and a dependable partner for experienced anglers. Each trip is designed around your goals, whether you’re after steady action or hoping to land a trophy. His focus on safety, preparation, and client satisfaction means guests leave with more than just fish—they leave with experience and confidence.

Captain Gus is especially skilled in light tackle, bottom fishing, and trolling. Light tackle offers a more hands-on feel that many guests enjoy, while his bottom fishing setups are dialed in for local favorites like flounder, croaker, and spot. For bigger targets like striped bass and bluefish, he turns to trolling—an effective technique backed by years of practice and seasonal insight. No matter the approach, his goal is always the same: put people on fish and help them enjoy their time on the water.

Guests join Captain Gus aboard a beautifully restored 41 ft 1980 Gene Travers cabin cruiser. This Downeast-style boat was fully restored in 2022, offering the charm of a classic with the reliability of modern upgrades. It comfortably accommodates up to six passengers, with a spacious layout that includes a covered cabin area for shade and rest. Powered by a single Cummins 450HP engine, it cruises smoothly at up to 17 knots. Whether you’re heading out to fish the Patapsco River or touring the upper bay, this vessel provides a stable, comfortable ride designed for all-day comfort.