There are opportunities to get out and enjoy the great outdoors through a fishing excursion in Atlantic City, N.J. Fishing from a pontoon boat in the bay and the waters that surround the city can be an exciting activity for the entire family.
Keeper Back Bay Fishing
If you are looking for the excitement of fishing for flounder, weakfish and blue fish, take a trip on the Keeper fishing pontoon boat. It sails each day at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. and is located in Margate, N.J., just a few minutes down the shore from Atlantic City. The boat travels through the Back Bay while cruising around Abescon Island on its four-hour fishing trip. There is room for up to 50 people on this pontoon boat, making for a fun way to spend a day for all ages. The captain knows all the hot spots when it comes to finding a good catch, including an opportunity to get that trophy doormat flounder. The boat has sun and shade, and senior citizen rates and special children's rates are available for travelers. There are restrooms on the boat, bait is provided and rental tackle as well as snacks and soft drinks are available. If you are looking for a day of fishing action, there are opportunities for any beginner or more experienced fisherman.
Highroller Fishing
Highroller Fishing, located off of New Hampshire Avenue at Gardner's Basin, offers an active day on the bay for family-friendly fishing aboard a 50-foot pontoon. The boat has room for 61 fishermen of all ages and skill levels. If you are looking for fluke, bluefish, weakfish, stripers and more, the captain and experienced crew will seek out a catch for you. There are two four-hour trips daily, and live and cut baits are furnished. Beginning in October through the first part of December take in the healthy fall sea air as Highroller Fishing offers striper fishing. Fish average between 10 to 20 pounds.Check for the dates and times, fishing in the fall is usually on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Be sure to bring your heavy jacket, as the air will be fresh and crisp. Highroller also offers instructions, fish cleaning service, restroom, equipment rentals and a variety of charters.
What to Bring
Most fishing excursions offer a chance for you to bring your own tackle, however, it is available at a nominal fee for those of you who need equipment. You do not need to bring bait; that is available on the boat free of charge. Make sure that you bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a change of clothes, hat, rain hear, medication for motion sickness--if you expect to need it, camera--to prove the big one didn't get away--and a cooler with crushed ice to take home your catch. Beer is permitted on board, but be sure it is in cans, and you are welcome to bring soft drinks and snacks; some are available on the boats.
Pricing
The cost varies but the 2009 and 2010 prices averaged about $15 to $20 for children under 12, $20 to $25 for adults and a little lower for seniors. Rental of rods is approximately $3 to $5. The websites for both companies offer current pricing.
Benefits
If you are interested in fishing and spending a fun, relaxing time with friends or family, then a pontoon fishing excursion might be for you. It is an exciting time for the novice or the expert angler. Enjoy the scenery; the healthy, fresh sea air is free.
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