Ready to hit the rich waters of Chesapeake Bay for some serious fishing action? Captain Gary Bramble and the crew at Maryanne Fishing Charters have got you covered with a full day of rod-bending excitement. This 7-hour trip is your ticket to targeting some of the Bay's most sought-after species, from hard-fighting Spanish Mackerel to hefty Black Drum. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to test your skills or a newbie hoping to land your first big catch, this charter delivers the goods. With all the gear provided and an expert team at the helm, you can focus on what matters most – reeling in the big ones and making memories that'll last a lifetime.
When you step aboard with Captain Gary, you're in for a day of non-stop fishing action. The Chesapeake Bay is known for its diverse fishery, and this full-day trip gives you plenty of time to explore it all. You'll start early, making the most of those prime morning hours when the fish are hungry and active. The crew will get you set up with top-notch gear and share local knowledge to boost your chances of success. As you cruise to the hotspots, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – the Bay's ecosystem is teeming with life above and below the water. With a 6-person capacity, there's room for your buddies or family, making it a great group outing. Just remember to pack some snacks and drinks, as meals aren't included on this trip.
On this Chesapeake Bay charter, you'll get to try out a variety of fishing techniques to target different species. For Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish, you might find yourself trolling with small spoons or jigs, mimicking the baitfish these predators love to chase. When going after Black Drum or Striped Bass, bottom fishing with cut bait or crab can be the ticket to success. The crew at Maryanne Fishing Charters will show you the ropes, whether it's setting up a drift for Sea Trout or jigging for Stripers around structure. They'll provide all the gear you need, from sturdy rods and reels to a variety of lures and bait. Captain Gary knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you'll be in prime position to hook into some quality fish throughout the day.
"We've fished with Captain Gary several times, and each trip he goes above and beyond to find us the fish. Fantastic catches and an amazing day on the water every time. We're already looking forward to our next adventure!" - Kevin
"Incredibly friendly team who worked tirelessly to get us on the fish. It was a fantastic day on the water!" - Sterns
Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch and provide some of the best light tackle action in the Bay. Known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps, Spanish Mackerel typically show up in Chesapeake waters from late spring through early fall. They're not just fun to catch – they're also delicious on the grill. Look for them around bait schools near the surface, where their silver sides flash as they dart after prey.
Bluefish: Pound for pound, Bluefish are some of the hardest fighting fish in the Chesapeake. These chompers are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. They can range from 2 to 20 pounds, with the bigger ones nicknamed "choppers" by local anglers. Bluefish are most abundant from spring through fall, and they're often found in schools, which means when you find them, the action can be non-stop.
Black Drum: If you're after a fish with some serious weight, Black Drum are your target. These bottom-dwellers can grow to over 100 pounds, though most caught in the Bay are in the 20-40 pound range. They're most active in the spring and fall, and love to hang around oyster beds and bridge pilings. Landing a big Black Drum is a true test of an angler's skill and patience.
Striped Bass: Also known as Rockfish, Striped Bass are the crown jewel of Chesapeake Bay fishing. These powerful fish are prized for both their fight and their flavor. They can be caught year-round in the Bay, but the spring and fall runs are particularly exciting. Stripers can grow to impressive sizes, with 30-40 pounders not uncommon. Targeting them around structure or during their famous "blitzes" is an experience every angler should have.
Sea Trout: Weakfish, as they're also called, are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. These spotted beauties are known for their subtle bite and spirited fights. Spring and fall are prime times for Sea Trout in the Chesapeake, and they're often found over grass beds or around creek mouths. Their delicate flesh makes them a prized catch for the dinner table as well.
A full day of fishing on Chesapeake Bay with Maryanne Fishing Charters is more than just a trip – it's a chance to tap into some of the best inshore fishing the East Coast has to offer. With Captain Gary's expertise, top-notch equipment, and a diverse range of species to target, you're set up for a day of non-stop action and big catches. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with tasty fillets or just enjoy the thrill of the catch, this charter delivers. Don't miss out on your chance to experience the legendary fishing of Chesapeake Bay. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so grab your fishing buddies and book your adventure today. Who knows? Your next cast could be the one that lands that fish of a lifetime. See you on the water!
July 29, 2024
Incredibly friendly team who worked tirelessly to get us on the fish. It was a fantastic day on the water!
September 7, 2024
Black Drum are the gentle giants of Chesapeake Bay. These big, silvery-black fish can grow over 80 pounds, but most we catch are in the 5-30 pound range. You'll find them hanging around structure – oyster bars, bridge pilings, and channel edges. They're bottom feeders, so that's where to drop your bait. Spring's the prime time when they move into shallower waters to spawn. Anglers love drum for their strong, steady fights and excellent table fare, especially the smaller ones. To catch 'em, use natural baits like crab or clams on a fish-finder rig. Here's a local secret: listen for their distinctive croaking sound – it can lead you right to a school of hungry drum!
Bluefish are the bulldogs of the bay – aggressive, hard-fighting, and always hungry. These toothy predators average 3-5 pounds but can top 20. You'll find them in open water, often near the surface, chasing bait schools. Bluefish are most active in summer and early fall when they migrate through our waters. Anglers love 'em for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. They're also good eating when prepared right, with a rich, full flavor. To target blues, look for feeding frenzies on the surface – it's quite a sight! Cast metal lures or topwater plugs into the chaos. My go-to trick? Use wire leaders – those sharp teeth will slice through mono like butter. Just be careful handling them; those choppers aren't just for show!
Sea Trout, also known as Speckled Trout, are a favorite among Chesapeake anglers. These silvery fish with distinctive spots usually run 14-20 inches, though some trophy "gators" can top 10 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats, around oyster bars, and near drop-offs. They're most active in spring and fall, often feeding aggressively at dawn and dusk. Anglers love sea trout for their willingness to hit lures and their delicate, flaky meat. To catch 'em, try soft plastics or live bait under a popping cork. Here's a local trick: on calm evenings, listen for their telltale "pop" as they feed on the surface. Cast towards the sound, and hold on – these fish can put up a spirited fight on light tackle!
Spanish Mackerel are sleek, fast swimmers that'll give you a run for your money. These silvery beauties, with distinctive yellow spots, typically run 1-2 feet long and weigh 2-6 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around structures like reefs or wrecks. They're most active in warmer months, from late spring through fall. Mackerel are prized for their aggressive strikes and tasty, oily flesh that's great for smoking or grilling. To catch 'em, try trolling with small, shiny lures that mimic their favorite prey – small baitfish like anchovies or sardines. A local tip: when you see birds diving, that's often a sign Spanish Mackerel are feeding nearby. Cast into the frenzy with a fast retrieve, and hold on tight – these fish can really scream line off your reel!
Striped Bass, or "rockfish" as we call 'em here, are the crown jewels of Chesapeake Bay fishing. These powerful fish average 5-30 pounds but can grow much larger. You'll find them around structure, in deeper channels, and chasing bait schools near the surface. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they migrate through the bay. Stripers are prized for their hard fights, impressive size, and delicious white meat. To catch 'em, try live-lining spot or eels, or casting topwater lures at dawn and dusk. Here's a tip: look for birds working the water – that often means stripers are pushing bait to the surface. It's an exciting fishery that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 32
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 500
We've fished with Captain Gary several times, and each trip he goes above and beyond to find us the fish. Fantastic catches and an amazing day on the water every time. We’re already looking forward to our next adventure!