Charter Fishing in Cape May, NJ
Find charter fishing boats and guides in Cape May, New Jersey. Book inshore bay trips, nearshore wrecks, and offshore bluewater charters targeting striped bass, bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, flounder, sea bass, and more at the southern tip of the Jersey Shore.
Why Charter Fishing in Cape May?
- Cape May sits at the confluence of Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, creating some of the most diverse fishing on the Northeast coast — from bay flounder and weakfish to offshore bluefin tuna in the canyon.
- The Atlantic canyon systems — Wilmington Canyon, Baltimore Canyon, and others — are accessible within 60–80 miles of Cape May, putting trophy bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo within range on full-day trips.
- Cape May Rips and the surrounding nearshore wrecks and ledges hold striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, and sea bass in season, making it a productive nearshore port for anglers of all experience levels.
- As the southernmost point of New Jersey, Cape May is a migratory funnel for striped bass in spring and fall, and a gateway to mid-Atlantic canyon fishing that rivals the best bluewater ports on the East Coast.
Miss Chris Fishing Center
Cape May, NJ
Bunky's Charter Boats
Cape May, NJ
Cape May Tuna Charters
Cape May, NJ
Cape May Striped Bass Guide Service
Cape May, NJ
Spiffy Sport Fishing
Cape May, NJ
Delaware Bay Fishing Guide
Cape May, NJ
Jersey Blues Charter Fishing
Cape May, NJ
Cape May Shark Charters
Cape May, NJ
Canyon Runner Sport Fishing
Cape May, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can I catch on a Cape May charter fishing trip?
Cape May charter fishing offers exceptional diversity. Delaware Bay and nearshore waters hold striped bass, flounder, weakfish, bluefish, and black sea bass. Nearshore wrecks and ledges produce sea bass, striped bass, and tautog. Offshore canyon trips target bluefin and yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sharks in the mid-Atlantic canyons.
When is the best time to go charter fishing in Cape May, NJ?
Cape May fishing has distinct seasonal peaks. Striped bass arrive in spring (April–May) and again in fall (October–November). Flounder and sea bass are excellent from spring through fall. Offshore tuna fishing peaks from June through October. Shark fishing is best July through September. Bluefish run through the bay and nearshore waters throughout summer.
How much does a charter fishing trip cost in Cape May?
Cape May charter prices vary by trip type. Head boat party trips start around $50–$80 per person for half-day bottom fishing. Private nearshore charters range from $500–$900. Full-day offshore canyon tuna trips run $1,500–$3,500+ depending on vessel size, distance, and group size.
What is canyon fishing from Cape May like?
The mid-Atlantic canyons — Baltimore, Wilmington, Spencer, and Washington Canyons — lie 60–90 miles offshore from Cape May and hold trophy bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi. Canyon trips typically depart before dawn for long-range offshore runs and return by evening, or depart on overnight trips for maximum time on the fishing grounds.
Where do Cape May fishing charters depart from?
Most Cape May charter boats depart from Cape May Harbor (Schellenger's Landing) and Miss Chris Marina on Wildwood. Cape May Point and the surrounding waterfront have excellent boat ramp and marina infrastructure for both private and charter vessels.
Is Cape May good for striped bass fishing?
Yes, Cape May is one of the top striped bass destinations on the East Coast. The Cape May Rips, where the cold Delaware Bay water collides with the warmer Atlantic, concentrates bait and creates outstanding striped bass fishing during the spring and fall migration. Delaware Bay back bays also hold bass throughout the season.