Connecticut Charter and Party Boat Association
    What We Fish For
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Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I choose a boat? - “Follow these Guidelines”

  • We want you to have the trip of a lifetime - Every time!
  • If you have fished next to one of our boats you will notice they catch consistently.
  • Our Captains are professional and exceptional in their own different ways.
  • First Step: Choose a Charter or Party Boat.
  • Charter Boats provide a private fishing experience from 1- 6 passengers*
  • Party Boats offer a public fishing experience and carry more than 6 passengers.*
    * Note: Larger groups can also charter a single party boat or multiple charter boats.
  • Next Step: Narrow down your choices.
  • We have already done that for you here: VIEW OUR BOAT MAP

Why choose a boat from here? - “Piece of mind”

  • Not every boat that "charges money to take you fishing" is licensed for hire!
  • Selecting any of our boats guarantees it is a legitimate "for hire" business.
  • Our captains are vetted for professionalism and regulatory compliance.
  • This includes their current year's captain's license, permits, registrations and insurance.
  • USCG vessel documentation/drug testing and safety equipment are also compliant.

Is saltwater experience necessary? - “Not at all”

This is a very common question and experience is not necessary to catch fish.

  • Listen to your crew as they explain the equipment and technique you will be using.
  • Follow their instructions and you will catch more fish.
  • While fishing on any of our boats no saltwater fishing license is required.

What will we catch? - “See Below”

  • There are basically 2 types of fishing: “Inshore” and “Offshore”
  • Some of our boats do both types, while others only specialize in one.
  • INSHORE FISHING occurs inside of Long Island or Block Island.
  • Inshore Species (when in season) most commonly include:
  • Striped Bass, Fluke, Black Sea Bass, Porgies, Blackfish, Weakfish or Bluefish.
  • The CT DEEP WEBSITE provides the size, season, and limit of each inshore species.
  • These are usually 3-8 hours in duration.
  • OFFSHORE FISHING occurs outside of Long Island and Block Island.
  • Offshore Species (in season) most commonly include:
  • Shark, Tuna or Mahi (on one day trips)
  • Tuna / Shark / Mahi / White Marlin / Blue Marlin / Swordfish (on multi-day trips).
  • One day trips may range from 12-14 hours, multi-day trips may last 24-36 hours.

Is Alcohol Allowed? - “These policies vary by boat”

  • Each boat's alcohol policy varies so it is best to call and clarify ahead of time.
  • Passengers who drink too much alcohol can ruin a trip and create safety risks for all.

Cannabis is legal in CT now? - “Not while on the water”.

  • The use or possession of cannabis is illegal while on board any vessel.
  • Federal laws preside over State laws and the U.S.C.G. is a federal entity.

What should we Bring? - “Here is a helpful list”.

  • Water, Beverages and Food
  • Coolers and Ice
  • Sunglasses (UV/Polarized are best)
  • Sunscreen 30+
  • Hooded Rain Jacket and Sweatshirt
  • Rubber sole shoes
  • Motion Sickness Medication*
    *(Tip: Take it the night before and again before departing)
  • Camera/Video

Now that you have the basics answered, it's time to find a boat!

VIEW OUR BOATS

© Connecticut Charter & Party Boat Association • (860)375-3474 • (860)375-FISH