Charter and Head Boat Fishing: Ease and Expertise

You can spend the entire season fishing around for ideal charter fishing trips. Or you can stop right here, in the “charter fishing capital of Maryland” since 1946 with the largest charter fishing fleet on the Chesapeake Bay.

Book a Trip Today!

Three ways to fish on the Chesapeake

Trolling

In this type of fishing, one or more lines are baited with lures or bait fish and drawn through the water. Methods: from behind a moving boat or by slowly winding the line in while fishing from a static position. Types of fish caught: rockfish, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel.


Bottom fishing

A weight is tied to the end of the line and a hook is positioned about an inch above the weight. You can also use the weight to cast or throw the line a set distance. Fish targeted: ground fish such as spot, white perch, croaker and rockfish.


Chumming

Ground-up fish (chum) is thrown into the water to lure a variety of fish by their sense of smell. Species lured by this type of fishing: rockfish and bluefish.

Charter fishing trips

Book a six or eight-hour fishing trip and let the bay's most experienced captains show you where the fish are. Please keep in mind:

  • Charter boats include licenses and tackle
  • Trolling does not require bait cost
  • Bottom fishing with blood worms is based on market price
  • Chumming bait cost is based on market price.
  • Boxed lunch options are available. Call 800-233-2080 to order.

Monday - Thursday

6 Pack Charter: 6 hour $550 / 8 hour $700

Over 6 Pack Charter:

6 hour $575, $80 for each person over six

8 hour $775, $80 for each person over six


Friday - Sunday

6 Pack Charter: 6 hour $675 / 8 hour $800

Over 6 Pack Charter:

6 hour $700, $89 for each person over six

8 hour $825, $89 for each person over six

Following any fishing trip aboard the head boat or one of our charter fishing boats, complete your fun-filled day by allowing us to prepare your big catch. Simply bring "ready to cook" fish fillets to the Rod 'N' Reel Restaurant and our Chef will cook it just the way you would like: baked, fried, grilled or blackened. $18.99 with a choice of 2 sides.

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FAQs


Q: How do I make a reservation?

A: Call 800-233-2080. A deposit is required. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover Card over the phone.


Q: What about coolers?

A: Leave an empty cooler in your car to take your fish home.


Q: Do I need to bring tackle?

A: Nope. We provide all the tackle.


Q: What about bait?

A: If you’re trolling, you’ll be using artificial lures and there’s no bait cost. If you’re chumming or bottom fishing, bait is available at market price.


Q: How about food?

A: We can arrange lunch and beverage orders in advance and have them waiting for you on the boat when you arrive. You’re also welcome to bring your own lunch.


Q: How many people can I bring?

A: Each boat has a maximum number of passengers allowed by the Coast Guard License. Observers, non-fisherman and children must be included in that number.


Q: Should I charter a six-passenger boat or a boat that carries more than six people?

A: You don’t need to know the exact number of people in your fishing party, but you should know if there will more or less than six. That will determine whether you charter a six-passenger boat or a larger one. If counting is not one of your favorite activities, or you have additional questions, feel free to call 800-233-2080.


Q: What should I bring?

A: It’s a good idea to dress in layers. Bring a jacket and/or a sweatshirt for chilly early mornings and late evenings. Carry sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the midday sun. And don’t forget your camera.


Q: Do I need a fishing license?

A: No. All the boats at the Resort have a blanket license for guests.


Q: Can I bring beer on the boat?

A: Yes. You’re here to relax and enjoy yourself. As for how much, use common sense and be responsible. If drinking creates safety issues, we have the right to cut the trip short without a refund.


Q: Are there fish cleaning services available?

A: You’ll find a fish cleaning facility at the dock. You can clean your catch yourself or ask a charter boat mate about fish cleaning. You can usually spot fish cleaners at the dock. If not, ask for one at the tackle shop.


Q: What about tipping?

A: Just like a server in a restaurant, mates depend on tips for their income. Usually, tips are 15% or 20% of the value of the trip. Although tipping the captain is much appreciated, it’s not expected unless the captain works without a mate.


Q: What happens if it rains?

A: We determine the effect of bad weather on a fishing trip at departure time. A light drizzle might be considered safe boating conditions. However, it’s unlikely the boats will venture out If the rain is coming down sideways. Call us anytime about weather conditions and remember to periodically check the area forecast.


Q: Where will we be fishing?

A: In general, the boats fish from Bloody Point to Cove Point and the Choptank River.


Q: How many fish can we keep?

A: Regulations are subject to change, so please visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to stay up to date on regulations for various fish species.