Gloucester Fish Species

Target Species for Reel Memories Fishing Charters in Gloucester MA and Hudson River NY

Planning your outing with Reel Memories Fishing Charters starts with knowing what is biting in our local waters. We specialize in two world-class fisheries: the rugged Atlantic coast for offshore / deep sea fishing Gloucester and the productive tidal waters for Hudson River striper fishing. Our goal is to put you on the fish when the bite is strongest, utilizing our 40' Dorado vessel and high-end heavy tackle to ensure a professional experience. Whether you are looking to battle a giant of the deep or enjoy a steady morning on the river, our seasonal expertise ensures we are always in the right place at the right time.

Seasonal Highlights and Primary Targets

Our calendar is dictated by the migrations of the most sought-after species in the Northeast. From April through June, we focus on the Hudson River Striped Bass run in New York, where trophy "cows" are the primary target during their annual spawn. As summer progresses, we shift our operations to Massachusetts to take advantage of the premier Tuna Fishing Charters Gloucester MA season. From July through October, the Atlantic becomes the stage for giant Bluefin Tuna. During these months, we also encounter seasonal visitors like Mahi Mahi and oily-rich forage fish, providing a variety of action for our guests. Knowing the best times to fish is key to a successful haul, and we track these patterns daily to provide the best opportunities for our clients.

The window for these trophy catches can be short, so there is always a sense of urgency when the bite turns on. Now is the best time to book a trip for the upcoming season to ensure you secure a date during peak activity. Whether we are chunking for stripers in the river or live-baiting for giants offshore, we provide all the necessary gear, bait, and guidance to make your day on the water a success. Our team is dedicated to handling every detail, from the first hook-up to the final fillet at the dock, so you can focus on the catch.

Common Questions About Fishing in Gloucester and the Hudson River



What is the best time of year for Bluefin Tuna in Gloucester, MA?

The peak season for giant Bluefin Tuna off the coast of Gloucester typically runs from July through October. During this time, the fish are aggressively feeding on baitfish to bulk up for winter. If you want the best chance at a heavyweight battle, we recommend booking your Gloucester MA fishing charters during the late summer months when the water temperatures are most consistent.

What is the best bait for Striped Bass on the Hudson River?

On the Hudson River, we find that live bait—specifically herring—is the most effective way to land a trophy Striped Bass. When the live bite is steady, nothing beats the natural presentation. We also utilize chunking techniques and specialized lures depending on the tide and water clarity. Our Hudson River striper fishing guide service provides all the fresh bait needed for a productive session.

When is the Striper season in New York?

The Hudson River Striped Bass season is most productive from mid-April through early June. This is when the fish move upriver from the Atlantic to spawn. This window offers the highest density of large fish in the river, making it the prime time for anglers looking for a high-intensity morning or afternoon session.

What should I bring on an offshore tuna trip in Gloucester?

Since our offshore / deep sea fishing Gloucester trips take you miles from the coast, we recommend bringing layers to adjust to changing temperatures, non-spray sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a bagged lunch. We provide all the heavy tackle, rods, reels, and ice for your catch, so you can travel light and focus on the fishing.

How do I book a trip to target fish with Reel Memories Fishing Charters?

Booking your session is simple. You can view our current availability for both Gloucester and the Hudson River directly on our website or by contacting Captain Michael Krom. Because our peak dates for Bluefin Tuna and Striped Bass fill up months in advance, we encourage you to reach out early to secure your spot on the Dorado.