Get ready to hit the flats with Captain Jim on this 4-hour private afternoon trip in Atlantic City. We're talking prime fishing grounds where the black sea bass, flounder, and weakfish are waiting to test your skills. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this back bay adventure is the real deal. With room for up to 5 anglers, you'll have plenty of elbow room to cast and reel in the good stuff. No need to pack a lunch - we're here to fish, not feast. So grab your lucky hat and let's get out there!
Picture this: you're cruising the back bays of Atlantic City, rod in hand, with Captain Jim at the helm. He knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's got the inside scoop on where the fish are biting. You'll be targeting some of the tastiest fish in the Atlantic - black sea bass, flounder, and weakfish. The afternoon light sparkles on the water as you cast your line, feeling that familiar tug that means you've got one on the hook. It's just you, your buddies, and the fish - no crowds, no rush, just pure fishing bliss.
On this trip, we're not messing around with deep sea gear. We're talking light tackle and finesse fishing. Captain Jim will show you the ropes of drift fishing, which is perfect for these shallow flats. You might be using jigs, soft plastics, or even live bait to entice those fish. The key is reading the water - looking for structure, drop-offs, and signs of bait fish. And let's not forget about the importance of a stealthy approach. In these skinny waters, the fish can spook easily, so we'll be using an electric trolling motor to sneak up on 'em. It's all about precision and patience out here on the flats.
The back bays of Atlantic City have been on fire lately. Anglers have been pulling in some real beauties - we're talking chunky black sea bass that'll make your arms ache, doormat flounder that barely fit in the net, and weakfish with colors that'll make you wish you brought a camera. The bite has been especially good during the afternoon hours when the tide's just right and the fish are feeding hard. Trust me, there's nothing like the feeling of setting the hook on a big one and watching your rod bend double. It's the kind of action that keeps folks coming back for more.
Let's break down the all-stars you'll be targeting on this trip. First up, we've got the black sea bass. These guys are the bruisers of the back bay, with their big mouths and aggressive bite. They love structure, so we'll be hitting the rocky areas and wrecks. They put up a great fight and taste even better on the grill. Best time to target them is late spring through fall when they move into shallower waters.
Next, we've got the southern flounder, also known as the doormat flounder if you're lucky enough to land a big one. These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in with the sandy bottom. They're ambush predators, so we'll be dragging baits slowly across the bottom to trigger their instincts. Flounder fishing heats up in the summer months, and there's nothing quite like the satisfying thump when one takes your bait.
Last but not least, we've got the spotted weakfish, or as the locals call 'em, "tiderunners." These fish are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts because of their explosive strikes and acrobatic fights. They've got a soft mouth, so finesse is key when reeling them in. Weakfish are most active during the warmer months, especially around dawn and dusk. When you hook into a big one, you'll know why they're such a prized catch in these parts.
There's something special about fishing the flats around Atlantic City. Maybe it's the way the skyline looks in the distance as you're reeling in a monster flounder. Or perhaps it's the thrill of sight-fishing for cruising weakfish in crystal clear shallows. Whatever it is, once you've experienced it, you're hooked for life. Captain Jim's got a knack for putting folks on fish, and his easy-going nature makes even first-timers feel like old pros. Plus, with a max of 5 guests, you're getting a personalized experience that's hard to beat. It's the kind of trip where stories are made and bragging rights are earned.
Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're itching to get out on the flats and tangle with some of Atlantic City's finest fish, this is your chance. Captain Jim's calendar fills up fast, especially during peak season. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with your buddies or teach the kids how to fish, this 4-hour afternoon trip is the ticket. You bring the enthusiasm, and we'll provide the rest. Don't let another season slip by without getting in on this action. Give GregMar Charters a call and lock in your date. The fish are waiting, and trust me, you don't want to miss out on this. See you on the water!
Spotted weakfish, or seatrout as some folks call 'em, are a popular catch in our back bays. They typically run 12-16 inches, but can grow up to three and a half feet long. These guys are ambush predators, so they'll often hang out near structures waiting to pounce on smaller fish or shrimp. We usually find them in shallow coastal waters, especially over sandy bottoms or near seagrass. They're most active in the warmer months when they move closer to shore. Weakfish got their name from their soft mouths, which can make them tricky to land. Here's a tip: when you see one going for your lure, speed up your retrieve a bit. It'll make them strike harder, setting the hook better. They put up a decent fight and make for some tasty eating too. Just watch out for those canine-like teeth when you're unhooking them!
Southern flounder are masters of camouflage, blending right into sandy or muddy bottoms in our shallow coastal waters. Most are 15-18 inches long, but they can get up to 33 inches and 20 pounds. These ambush predators lie in wait for smaller fish and crustaceans to swim by. We usually catch them by drift fishing or still fishing near the bottom. Live bait like bull minnows or mullet works great, but artificial lures can do the trick too. The best time to target them is in the warmer months - they head offshore in winter. What's neat about flounder is they have both eyes on one side of their head, usually the left. When you're reeling one in, go slow and steady - their soft mouths can tear easily if you're too rough.
Black sea bass are a fun target around here, especially from late spring through summer. These plump little fighters usually run 2-4 pounds but can get up to 8 pounds or more. You'll find them hanging around structures like jetties, wrecks, and rocky bottoms, typically in waters less than 120 feet deep. They're bottom feeders, so we'll use squid or fish strips on a two-hook rig. What's cool about these fish is they're all born female and some later change to males - the big ones with blue coloring and a hump on their heads are the males. They put up a good scrap until they break the surface. For the best chance at a keeper, I like using a medium-weight rod with 20-30 pound line. Just remember, the season here runs May 15 to December 31, with a bonus month in February.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 25
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300