A Beginner’s Guide to Deep-Sea Fishing on Nantucket Sound
Welcome to Hyannis! If you’re looking for some “reel” fun on the water, you’ve come to the right place. There is something special about the salt air here on the Cape, and there’s no better way to experience it than by heading out past the breakwater for a day of deep-sea fishing.
At Hy-Line Cruises, we’ve been navigating these local waters for 59 years. While we love a good ferry ride, our fishing trips hold a special place in our hearts. We’ve designed these excursions to be accessible, social, and, most importantly, fun. Whether you’re looking to grab a beer and fish with friends or introduce the grandkids to their first big catch, a day spent with us is worth the trip!
What is “Bottom Fishing”?
If you’re new to the sport, don’t worry because you don’t need to be a pro. We specialize in bottom fishing. It’s exactly what it sounds like, which is a game of patience where you drop your weighted line all the way to the seafloor and wait for that telltale tug.
Depending on the season, we typically steam about 3 to 15 miles offshore to reach the best fishing grounds. Here’s a quick look at what you might find on the end of your line:
- Scup (Porgy): The most common catch! They are scrappy, plentiful, and great for beginners.
- Black Sea Bass: Known for their beautiful blue-black scales and delicious white meat.
- Fluke and Tautog: These bottom dwellers provide a fun challenge and make for a fantastic dinner.
No Gear? No Problem
One of the biggest hurdles for beginners is the equipment, but we’ve got you covered. You don’t need to own a single hook to fish with us.
- Rentals Available: Rod rentals are available for a small fee. For our 2.5-hour “Bottom Fishing” trips, your gear is included for free.
- Bait Provided: We provide the bait for every passenger, so you don’t have to worry about a trip to the tackle shop.
- Expert Assistance: Our deckhands on the Sea Queen are the best in the business. They are there to “show you the ropes” and will help you bait your hook, untangle those inevitable knots, and cheer you on as you reel in your catch.
Preparing for Your Trip
To make sure your time on Nantucket Sound is comfortable, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress in Layers: Even if it’s a scorcher on the docks, the ocean breeze can be chilly. Bring a light windbreaker or a hoodie just in case.
- Sun Protection: The sun reflects off the water and doubles your exposure. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses to save your eyes from the glare.
- Footwear: Leave the flip-flops at home! The deck can get wet and slippery, so we highly recommend non-skid, rubber-soled shoes like sneakers.
- Snacks and Drinks: You’re going to work up an appetite. Feel free to bring a small cooler with water and snacks to keep your energy up.
Onboard Amenities & Services
We want your experience to be as smooth as the glass on a calm day.
- Cleaning Service: Don’t want to deal with the mess? For a fee, our crew will professionally clean and bag your catch right on the boat.
- Easy Parking: No need to circle the block. We have a dedicated parking lot at 110 Ocean Street, and it is located right next to Spanky’s Clam Shack. You can park, fish, and then grab a cup of chowder afterward!
Deep-sea fishing is about more than just the fish. It’s about the thrill of the open ocean and the memories you make with the people next to you on the rail. Whether you’re staying on the Cape for the week or just visiting for the day, we’d love to have you aboard.
