Ready to step up your fishing game? Wine Down Boston's got you covered with our professional-grade inshore charter out of Cape Cod. We're talking serious angling for black sea bass, bluefish, and more, all while soaking in those killer Boston skyline views. This ain't your average tourist trip - we're geared up for experienced anglers looking to maximize their time on the water. Captain Bill Silva knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's all about putting you on the fish. Grab your crew (up to 6 can join), pack some snacks, and let's hit the Cape Cod hotspots.
Here's the scoop: We push off at 4 PM, perfect for dodging the daytime crowds and hitting that evening bite. You'll be fishing into the twilight hours, which is prime time for a lot of our target species. The boat's rigged with top-notch gear, and Captain Bill's crew will make sure you're dialed in on the latest techniques. This isn't a "sit back and watch" kind of charter - you'll be hands-on, working those rods, and putting your skills to the test. And yeah, that Boston skyline at sunset? It's a bonus view you won't forget.
We're not messing around with bargain bin tackle here. You'll be using pro-level setups tailored to our Cape Cod inshore species. For black sea bass, we often drop shot with soft plastics or jig bucktails near structure. Bluefish? Get ready to cast topwater poppers or troll with surgical tubes - when those choppers are in a frenzy, it's non-stop action. We'll also rig up for flounder, usually with a fish finder setup and some fresh bait. Captain Bill's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, so don't be surprised if he pulls out some local "secret weapon" that the fish can't resist.
Cape Cod's inshore waters are teeming with some hard-fighting, great-eating fish. Let's break down what you might be tangling with:
Striped Bass: The rockstars of the Northeast coast. These bruisers can top 50 pounds, and they put up one heck of a fight. We target them around structure, rips, and bait schools. There's nothing quite like the pull of a big striper on the line - it'll test your drag and your arms. Peak season's usually May through October, but we can find some resident fish outside those months too.
Winter Flounder: Don't let the name fool you - we catch these flatties year-round. They might not be the biggest (usually 1-3 pounds), but they're delicious and fun to target. We fish for them over sandy or muddy bottom, often near channels or drop-offs. It's a great species for honing your bottom-fishing skills.
Bluefish: These toothy critters are like the pit bulls of the sea. They hit hard, run fast, and never seem to quit. Blues show up in force from spring to fall, often in big schools that tear through bait on the surface. When they're blitzing, it's some of the most exciting fishing you'll ever experience. Just watch your fingers when you're unhooking them!
Black Sea Bass: These bottom-dwellers are the unsung heroes of inshore fishing. They're aggressive, hard-fighting, and damn good eating. We usually find them around rocky structure or wrecks. The bigger ones (3+ pounds) are called "knuckleheads" for good reason - they've got some serious shoulders on them. Sea bass season typically runs from May to December, with some of the biggest fish showing up in the fall.
Look, there's a reason our regulars book this trip again and again. It's not just about filling the cooler (though we usually do). It's about that rush when a big blue crashes your topwater lure. It's the satisfaction of outsmarting a cunning sea bass. It's swapping stories and techniques with Captain Bill and other seasoned anglers. And yeah, it's also about bringing home some of the freshest, tastiest fish you'll ever eat. This isn't a "one and done" charter - it's the kind of trip that'll have you checking the calendar for your next day off.
So, what do you say? Ready to put your skills to the test on some of Cape Cod's finest inshore fishing grounds? Captain Bill and the Wine Down Boston crew are itching to get you out there. Remember, we're limited to 6 anglers max, so this is no cattle boat - you'll get plenty of personal attention and fishing time. Bring your A-game, a good attitude, and maybe a few snacks (fish get hungry, but so do anglers). Oh, and that 20% tip at the end? It's not just appreciated - it's how you say "thanks for putting us on the fish" in boat speak. Don't wait for the bite to turn on without you. Book your spot now, and let's go chase some Cape Cod gold!
Black sea bass are a summertime staple in Cape Cod waters, showing up in late spring when the water warms. These tasty bottom-dwellers usually run 2-4 pounds, but can reach up to 8. You'll find them around structure - wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottoms in 30-120 feet of water. They put up a decent fight for their size, especially on light tackle. Anglers love targeting sea bass for their excellent table fare - white, flaky meat that's great for fish tacos. The bigger males, with their distinctive blue humps, tend to hang in deeper water. For the best action, fish from late May through August. Local tip: drop your bait or jig right next to the structure. These fish won't stray far from their hiding spots, so accuracy is key. And if you catch one, there's likely more nearby - they're schooling fish.
Bluefish are the bulldogs of Cape Cod waters - aggressive, hard-fighting, and a blast to catch. These chompers show up mid-June and stick around till October, usually weighing 5-10 pounds but sometimes hitting 20. You'll find them chasing bait schools near the surface, often creating a "blitz" where they whip the water into a frenzy. They're not picky eaters, which makes them fun for all skill levels. Anglers love blues for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. While their strong flavor isn't for everyone, smoked bluefish is a local delicacy. For the best action, look for birds diving or bait fish jumping - that's where the blues are feeding. Local tip: use wire leaders, these guys have razor-sharp teeth that'll slice through mono in a heartbeat. And watch your fingers when unhooking them!
Striped bass are a favorite around Cape Cod, known for their size and fight. These fish typically range from 20-40 pounds, though some monsters can hit 70. Look for them near structures like reefs, sandbars, and jetties. They're most active at dawn and dusk, when they come up to feed in shallower waters. Spring and fall are prime seasons as the bass migrate along the coast. Anglers love 'em for their powerful runs and the challenge of landing a big one. Plus, they're great eating - sweet, flaky meat that's perfect for grilling. To up your chances, try live bait like eels or menhaden. And here's a local tip: when you see birds diving, there's a good chance stripers are pushing bait to the surface. That's when you want to cast right into the frenzy and hold on tight!
Winter flounder, or blackbacks, are bottom-dwellers you'll find in Cape Cod's estuaries and along the continental shelf. These flat fish typically run 10-12 inches, but can grow up to 25 inches and 8 pounds. They're most active in cooler months, making them a great target for early spring and late fall fishing. Look for them in depths up to 180 feet, often hiding among vegetation or rocks. Anglers enjoy targeting winter flounder for their delicate, sweet-tasting flesh - it's some of the best eating around. They're not known for putting up a big fight, but the challenge is in finding and enticing them to bite. Use a sensitive rod to detect their subtle nibbles. Local tip: a piece of clam or sea worm on a small hook is your best bet. Let it sit on the bottom and be patient - these guys are slow, methodical feeders.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Detroit engines
Maximum Cruising Speed: 22
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 250