12 Reviews
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The Striped Bass is one of New England's most prized gamefish, known for powerful fights and excellent table fare. Found throughout coastal Massachusetts, these fish migrate seasonally and can be caught from spring through fall in Hingham's waters. - Can grow to impressive sizes exceeding 50 inches in length - Distinguished by their distinctive horizontal black stripes - Respond well to various fishing techniques from live bait to artificial lures
Experienced an action-packed day of inshore fishing on the South Shore with Blueline Fishing Charters this Tuesday July. Captain David Horte guided us through Hingham Bay and local hotspots as we targeted Striped Bass using light tackle casting and bottom fishing techniques. The weather started off questionable but cleared up nicely, allowing us to land multiple stripers including an impressive 32-inch catch. This 5-hour charter is perfect for anglers of all skill levels looking to experience some of the best fishing Hingham has to offer. With all gear provided and Captain Horte's extensive local knowledge, you'll be set up for success whether you're after trophy stripers or just enjoying a day on the water with family or friends. Summer is prime time for South Shore inshore fishing, so book early to secure your spot.
Captain David Horte of Blueline Fishing Charters on Tuesday July offers this 5-Hour Trip that targets Striped Bass and Bluefish in the productive waters around Hingham, Hull, and other local hotspots. This private charter accommodates up to 6 passengers (though 4 is recommended for the best experience) and includes all necessary fishing gear, bait, and licenses. The Half Day Guided Bluefish And Striped Bass Fishing Trip takes you through Hingham Bay, Weymouth, Quincy and Boston Harbor areas where Captain Horte's local expertise ensures you'll be on the fish. For those wanting more time on the water, optional trip extensions are available at $120 per additional hour.
This charter stands out for its versatility and productivity. Captain Horte employs multiple techniques including light tackle casting, bottom fishing, and trolling to maximize your chances of landing fish. On our trip, we boated an impressive 32-inch Striped Bass along with a solid 20-incher. The South Shore waters of Massachusetts provide reliable action for stripers throughout the summer months.
The experience is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned anglers. Captain Horte provides expert guidance and adjusts techniques based on conditions and your preferences. The boat comfortably accommodates small groups, making this ideal for family outings, fishing with friends, or even solo anglers looking to improve their skills with professional instruction.
Striped Bass thrive in the waters around Hingham, particularly during summer months when they feed actively in the bays and harbor areas. These powerful gamefish respond well to both artificial lures and live bait presentations. Captain Horte's intimate knowledge of local striped bass habits gives you a significant advantage, as he knows exactly where these fish hold during different tide cycles and weather conditions. Morning trips often produce the best action, though evening trips can be equally productive when targeting feeding stripers around structure and moving tide lines. The charter's ability to switch between casting, trolling, and bottom fishing techniques ensures you're always using the most effective approach for the day's conditions.
Your trip departs from 18 Shipyard Dr in Hingham. For the best experience, arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. The boat is well-equipped with quality fishing gear and safety equipment. Light snacks and water are recommended as you'll be on the water for 5 hours. Weather appropriate clothing is essential – layers work best as mornings can start cool before warming up. Summer fishing in Hingham typically means comfortable temperatures, but it's always wise to bring sun protection including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Captain Horte welcomes anglers of all experience levels and is happy to provide as much or as little instruction as you need.
The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), commonly known as "stripers" or "rockfish," is a highly sought-after gamefish from the Moronidae family and Perciformes order. Distinguished by its seven to eight dark horizontal stripes running along silver-white sides, this species has become an iconic fish in Hingham's waters and throughout the Northeast. In Hingham's coastal waters this July, these fish provide exceptional angling opportunities as they feed aggressively in the summer warmth.
Striped Bass are anadromous fish, meaning they split their lifecycle between saltwater and freshwater environments. Highly adaptable predators, they're prized by recreational anglers for their fighting ability, size potential, and excellent food value. Their popularity has made them one of the most economically important sportfish along the Atlantic coast.
These fish inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, rivers, and lakes along the Atlantic seaboard. Around Hingham, they can be found in harbor areas, along rocky shorelines, and near structure including bridges, jetties, and underwater dropoffs. They prefer areas with current and structure that concentrates baitfish, making Boston Harbor and the surrounding South Shore waters prime habitat.
Striped Bass typically range from 20 to 55 inches in length and weigh between 10 and 81 pounds. The specimens caught during charters in Hingham waters commonly fall in the 20-32 inch range, though larger trophy fish are certainly possible. Massachusetts maintains size limits to protect the fishery, so be aware of current regulations when fishing.
Stripers are opportunistic predators that feed on a variety of prey including menhaden, herring, mackerel, sand eels, squid, and crustaceans. They often hunt in schools, corralling baitfish against structure or the surface. Their feeding patterns typically peak during dawn and dusk, though they'll actively feed throughout the day during ideal conditions or when bait is abundant.
Striped Bass spawn in freshwater rivers during spring, typically from April through June when water temperatures reach 60-70°F. After spawning, adult fish migrate to coastal waters where they spend summer and fall feeding and building energy reserves. By July in Hingham, the post-spawn fish are actively feeding in coastal waters.
Several effective techniques work well for Striped Bass. Casting live bait such as mackerel, herring, or eels produces consistent results, particularly during slower tides. Artificial lures including swimming plugs, soft plastics, and metal jigs also prove effective when matched to local baitfish. In July, anglers around Hingham find success targeting stripers around rocky structure, channel edges, and areas with moving current, especially during the first few hours of daylight or as the sun sets.
Striped Bass offers excellent table fare with firm, white flesh that has a mild, sweet flavor. It can be prepared in numerous ways including grilling, baking, broiling, or pan-searing. The meat is high in protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. However, be aware of local consumption advisories as larger specimens may accumulate contaminants in certain waterways.
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Bass?
A: Live bait such as mackerel, herring, menhaden, and eels are top producers for Striped Bass in Hingham waters. Fresh chunk bait from these same species also works well when live bait isn't available.
Q: Where can I find Striped Bass near Hingham?
A: Productive areas include Hingham Bay, Hull Gut, the edges of shipping channels in Boston Harbor, rocky shorelines, and areas with current flow around structure. Captain Horte targets these areas on his charters based on tide and time of day.
Q: Is Striped Bass good to eat?
A: Yes, Striped Bass is considered excellent table fare with firm white meat and mild flavor. It's versatile for various cooking methods and rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Q: When is the best time to catch Striped Bass?
A: In Hingham, the prime season runs from May through October, with July and August often providing consistent action. Dawn and dusk typically produce the best bite, especially during moving tides when baitfish are active.
Q: What size Striped Bass can I keep in Massachusetts?
A: Massachusetts regulations change periodically, but currently anglers must adhere to a slot limit. Always check the latest regulations before your trip as Captain Horte will ensure you're fishing within legal guidelines.
Q: What tackle should I use for Striped Bass?
A: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or conventional tackle with 20-30 pound test line works well for most Hingham striper fishing. Captain Horte provides all necessary tackle on his charters calibrated specifically for local conditions.