Family-Friendly Fishing on Chesapeake Bay | 7 Hours

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Chesapeake Bay
$750 price range

Summary

Captain Gary Bramble and his crew welcome families aboard the Mary Anne for a relaxed day of fishing on Chesapeake Bay. This 7-hour trip is ideal if you're new to fishing or bringing kids along, as the waters are calm and there's plenty of action. You'll be targeting Striped Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Black Drum, and Bluefish - with all the gear provided and friendly guidance to help you land a catch. The boat has enough room for small family groups to spread out and enjoy time together on the water. As you fish, keep an eye out for wildlife and take in the peaceful bay scenery. It's a great way to introduce everyone to the joys of fishing without any fuss. Just remember, deposits can't be refunded, so check the Trips & Rates page for details before booking your adventure on the bay.

Family-Friendly Fishing on Chesapeake Bay | 7 Hours

Bay Fishing Fun

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Striped Bass Success!

Striped Bass Trio!

Two striped bass caught while fishing in MD

Cooler full of striped bass.

Family-Friendly Chesapeake Bay Fishing Adventure

Ready for a laid-back day on the water that's perfect for the whole crew? Captain Gary Bramble's got you covered with this 7-hour trip that's tailor-made for families and first-timers. You'll be cruising the calm waters of Chesapeake Bay, reeling in some of the bay's most popular fish, and making memories that'll last a lifetime. No experience? No problem. The Mary Anne's crew will show you the ropes and make sure everyone has a blast. So grab the kids, pack some snacks, and let's hit the bay!

What to Expect on the Water

This ain't your grandpa's intense fishing expedition - we're talking easy-going fun for all ages. You'll board the Mary Anne, a comfy vessel that's just right for small family groups. Captain Gary and his crew will get you set up with all the gear you need (yep, it's all included), so you can focus on the important stuff - like spotting wildlife and soaking in those killer bay views. We'll be targeting some of the bay's most exciting catches, from hard-fighting Striped Bass to tasty Spanish Mackerel. The crew's always on hand to help with baiting hooks, showing you how to cast, or even telling a fewfish tales. It's all about having a good time and maybe landing your first big catch.

Fishing 101: Chesapeake Style

Now, let's talk fishing. We keep things simple and effective out here on the bay. You'll likely be doing some light trolling - that's where we drag lines behind the boat as we cruise along. It's an easy technique that's perfect for beginners and still gets results. The crew might also have you try some bottom fishing, dropping lines straight down to where the big ones like to hang out. Don't worry if you've never held a rod before - the Mary Anne's team will walk you through every step. We use sturdy, reliable gear that's suited for the bay's conditions and the fish we're after. And hey, if you just want to kick back and enjoy the ride while the kids try their hand at fishing, that's cool too. It's your day on the water, after all.

Top Catches This Season

Alright, let's talk about what's biting in Chesapeake Bay. We've got a lineup of local favorites that'll keep your rods bending and your reels spinning:

Striped Bass: These bad boys are the rockstars of the bay. Also known as rockfish, they're hard-fighters that can grow to impressive sizes. Spring and fall are prime time for stripers, but you can catch them year-round. They love to hang around structure, so we'll target bridge pilings and rocky areas. Landing a big striper is a real thrill - they'll give you a workout and make for some great photos.

Spanish Mackerel: Fast and feisty, these guys are a blast to catch. They show up in the warmer months, usually from late spring through early fall. Spanish macks are known for their blistering runs, so hold on tight when one takes your bait! They're also delicious eating if you're looking to take some fish home for dinner.

Bluefish: These toothy critters are like the pit bulls of the bay - all attitude and non-stop energy. Blues can show up any time from spring to fall, often in big schools that'll keep everyone on the boat busy. They're not picky eaters, which makes them great for beginners. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them!

Black Drum: If you're after something with some serious heft, black drum are your target. These bruisers can grow to over 100 pounds, though we usually catch them in the 20-40 pound range. They're bottom feeders, so we'll use heavier tackle and bait to entice them. Spring and early summer are prime time for drum.

Sea Trout: Also called weakfish, these guys are known for their beautiful spotted patterns and soft mouths. They're more of a finesse fish, requiring a gentler touch when fighting. Sea trout are most active in the warmer months and make for some excellent light tackle action.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've been running charters on the Chesapeake for years, and there's a reason families keep booking trips with us. It's not just about the fish - though believe me, when the bite is on, it's something special. It's about spending quality time together, away from screens and schedules. It's watching a kid's face light up when they feel that first tug on the line. It's sharing laughs over who caught the biggest (or smallest) fish of the day. And let's be honest, it's pretty sweet when mom or dad can play hero by reeling in dinner for the family. Plus, you can't beat the scenery out here. From osprey diving for fish to the peaceful shorelines, there's always something to see. Oh, and did I mention the sunsets? Trust me, they're worth the price of admission alone.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, here's the deal. If you're looking for a stress-free day on the water that the whole family will enjoy, this Chesapeake Bay trip is your ticket. Captain Gary and the crew of the Mary Anne will make sure everyone has a great time, whether you're a seasoned angler or have never held a fishing rod in your life. We provide all the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots - you just bring the smiles and maybe a couple snacks. Remember, we can only take up to 6 guests, so spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Don't wait to book your Chesapeake Bay fishing adventure. Give us a call, and let's get you and your crew out on the water for a day you won't forget. Fish on!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are hefty bottom-feeders that'll give you a good workout. Adults typically run 5-30 pounds but can reach over 80. You'll find them over oyster beds, near pilings, and along channel edges. Spring is prime time as they move into the shallows to spawn. Anglers enjoy black drum for their strong, steady fight and good table fare when smaller. To catch 'em, use heavy tackle and fish on the bottom with crab or clam baits. My local trick is to look for their 'drumming' sound - on quiet days, you can actually hear big schools grunting underwater. That's your cue to drop lines nearby.

Bluefish

Bluefish are aggressive fighters that'll test your gear and skills. These toothy predators average 2-5 pounds but can get much bigger. You'll find them chasing bait in open water, around structure, and in the surf. Summer and early fall are prime bluefish seasons in the Bay. Anglers love bluefish for their hard strikes and powerful runs. They're not the best eating, but smaller ones are tasty when prepared right. To catch blues, use wire leaders - their sharp teeth will slice through mono. Try topwater lures, metal spoons, or live bait like bunker. My local tip: look for slicks on the water's surface. That often means bluefish are feeding below and churning up oils from baitfish.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called "specks," are fun light-tackle targets. They usually run 1-3 pounds but can reach 5+. Look for them around grass flats, creek mouths, and oyster bars. Spring and fall offer the best action as water temps are right. Anglers enjoy sea trout for their aggressive strikes and delicate flavor. To catch 'em, try soft plastics, small jigs, or live shrimp under a popping cork. My local trick is to fish the falling tide. As water drains off the flats, trout stack up in deeper holes and channels to ambush bait. Those spots can be goldmines if you time it right.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are fun, fast-moving fish that'll keep you on your toes. They usually run 1-2 feet long and cruise in schools near the surface, especially around dawn and dusk. Look for them around inlets, points, and anywhere bait is schooling up. Spring and fall are prime times as they migrate through the Bay. Anglers love Spanish Mackerel for their speedy runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're also tasty eating, with firm white meat that's great grilled. To catch 'em, try trolling small spoons or casting lures that mimic baitfish. My go-to trick is to watch for diving birds - that often means Spanish are feeding below. Cast into the frenzy and hold on tight!

Striped Bass

Striped Bass, or "stripers," are the Bay's most prized gamefish. These powerful predators average 5-30 pounds but can top 50. Look for them around structure, drop-offs, and bait schools. Spring and fall offer the best action as they migrate. Anglers love stripers for their hard fights, size, and excellent eating. To catch 'em, try live-lining spot, jigging with soft plastics, or casting topwaters at dawn and dusk. My local tip: focus on moving water. Stripers often feed in rips and eddies where currents create ambush spots. The faster the current, the more aggressive they'll bite.

About the Robbins (Pilothouse)

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Cummins

Maximum Cruising Speed: 32

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 500

Captain Gary Bramble's 7-hour fishing trip on Chesapeake Bay is tailor-made for families and newcomers to fishing. Hop aboard the Mary Anne for a laid-back day on calm waters, where you'll cast lines for Striped Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Black Drum, and Bluefish. Don't worry about gear – it's all provided, and the friendly crew will show you the ropes. With space for up to 6 guests, it's ideal for small groups looking to spend quality time together. As you fish, keep an eye out for local wildlife and soak in the serene bay scenery. This trip offers steady action without overwhelming beginners or young anglers. It's a great way to introduce kids to fishing or simply enjoy a relaxing day on the water. Remember, deposits can't be refunded, so check the Trips & Rates page for details before booking your Chesapeake Bay adventure.

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