Scituate: The Gateway to Deep Sea Fishing Massachusetts
Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to fill the freezer or a parent wanting to introduce your kids to the wonders of the Atlantic, deep sea fishing in Massachusetts is all about the connection to the ocean. At Mass Bay Guides Fishing Charters, we’ve been a family-run operation since 1999, and we believe a great day on the water is measured by the laughs and the “thump” on the line, not just the haul.
Massachusetts has a lot of coastline, but Scituate Harbor is special. We are the closest port to the legendary Stellwagen Bank. For you, that means less time steaming and more time with a rod in your hand. We are one of the busiest Massachusetts fishing charters, so please book in advance.
“Bending the Rod”: Why We Love Bottom Fishing Trips
If you have a younger family (12+) or are new to the salt, “Bottom Fishing” is our #1 recommendation. While Tuna fishing is a test of patience, bottom fishing is all about action. We call it “bending the rod.”
- The Depth: We typically fish between 70 and 300 feet.
- The Gear: We use light but powerful Penn Fishing gear. Even younger anglers can feel the aggressive pull of a Pollock or the steady weight of a Haddock.
- The Result: It’s an engaging, hands-on day that keeps everyone excited from the first drop to the last drift.
Meet the “Big Three” – Bottom Fish in Massachusetts
In these waters, we generally target the stars of the New England bottom fishery:
- Haddock Fishing: The gold standard for a fresh fish dinner. They are plentiful, fun to catch, and we always aim to get you your limit.
- Pollock Fishing: The hardest fighters of the bunch. When a 15-pound Pollock hits your jig, you’re going to feel it in your shoulders!
- Cod Fishing: The New England icon. While the cod regulations change, catching a 30-inch Cod is a highlight of any trip, whether it goes in the cooler or back to the deep.
8-Hour vs. 10-Hour: Finding Your Perfect Day
We don’t believe in “one size fits all” trips.
- The 8-Hour 3/4 Day: Our most popular family option. We head 10–20 miles out, giving you a full morning of fishing and getting you back to the dock in time for a late lunch in Scituate.
- The 10-Hour Full Day: For those who want to go further (20+ miles) and stay longer. We leave in the dark to be over the grounds by first light.
The “Uninvited” Guests: Sharks on the Bank
One of the coolest parts about deep sea fishing in Massachusetts is that you never truly know what’s going to follow your bait up from the bottom. While we’re out there primarily focused on Haddock and Cod, we often get some “uninvited” visitors that really put the gear to the test.
The most common sharks we see while bottom fishing are blue sharks, makos, porbeagles, dogfish, and great whites. These guys are like the “vacuum cleaners” of the ocean floor. They are aggressive and incredibly strong. If you feel a heavy, thrashing weight that doesn’t quite feel like a Haddock, there’s a good chance you’ve got a shark on the line.
We also offer shark charters if you’re interested!
A Way of Life Since 1999
Mass Bay Guides isn’t just a business; it’s a way of life passed down through generations. From Captain Greg to the Sears brothers, we treat every guest like a member of the crew. Whether you’re traveling from Scituate, Marshfield, Plymouth, Norwell, Boston, Gloucester, or Duxbury, or visiting from across the country, our goal is the same: an unforgettable day on the water.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
The prime window for bottom fishing is mid-May through June, but the action stays steady all season (May 15 – Oct 31). If you’re thinking about getting the family out this year, we’d love to have you aboard.