Cape Cod's Premier Seabass & Scup Fishing Trip

Black Seabass/Porgies/Tautog Spring Action

Captain Joey's 6-hour spring fishing adventure puts you right where the action is hottest – over productive bottom structure where scup and black sea bass gather in serious numbers. From May through early July, these fish are absolutely fired up and ready to eat. You'll fish from his well-equipped 25' Bluefin center console, a perfect platform for working the bottom and handling whatever these scrappy fighters throw at you. With quality gear provided and live bait available on request, all you need to bring is your appetite for steady action and some serious fun on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

This trip is all about consistency and putting fish in the boat. Captain Joey knows exactly where to find the productive bottom structure that holds these spring favorites, and his 25' Bluefin center console gives you the stability and room to work comfortably. With space for up to four guests, you're not fighting for elbow room – everyone gets their shot at the action. The boat comes loaded with top-rated rods, reels, and all the tackle you need to get the job done. If you want to step up your game, just ask about live bait – it can make all the difference when the fish are being picky. The 6-hour window gives you plenty of time to work different spots and dial in the bite, whether the fish are aggressive right off the bat or need a little coaxing.

Bottom Fishing Techniques

We're talking classic bottom fishing here – the kind that never gets old because it flat-out works. You'll be dropping rigs down to structure where these fish love to hang out, feeling for that telltale thump when they grab your bait. Captain Joey sets you up with the right sinker weights to get down and stay down, even when there's current running. The key is keeping your bait right in the strike zone, just off the bottom where scup and sea bass cruise looking for an easy meal. When you hook up, these fish don't give up easy – especially the bigger sea bass that can really pull. The technique might be straightforward, but reading the bite, adjusting your presentation, and working the structure efficiently separates the good days from the great ones. That's where Captain Joey's local knowledge really pays off.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Scup are the ultimate action fish when they're on the bite. These feisty little fighters might not be the biggest fish in the ocean, but pound for pound, they'll give you a workout. During peak season from May through early July, they stack up over bottom structure in numbers that can make your arms sore from reeling. What makes scup special is their willingness to bite – when you find a good school, you can literally catch them as fast as you can drop your line. They're also fantastic eating, with sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for the dinner table. The bigger ones, sometimes called "jumbo scup," really know how to use their broad, flat bodies to fight in the current.

Black sea bass are the prize catch of this trip, and for good reason. These chunky, hard-fighting fish are built like little bulldogs and fight twice as hard as you'd expect. Spring is prime time for sea bass as they move into shallower water and become more aggressive. They love structure – rocks, wrecks, reefs – anywhere they can ambush prey and find cover. A good sea bass will make several strong runs before you get it to the boat, and the bigger ones can really surprise you with their power. They're also one of the best eating fish in the ocean, with firm, white meat that's incredibly versatile in the kitchen. The spring season often produces some real doormat sea bass that make for trophy photos and memorable meals.

Time to Book Your Spot

This spring bottom fishing trip with Captain Joey delivers exactly what serious anglers want – consistent action, quality fish, and a captain who knows how to put you on them. The 6-hour format gives you real time to work the water and make the most of the prime spring bite. With all gear provided and live bait available, you can focus on what matters most – hooking up and having a blast. The 4-person capacity keeps things comfortable and ensures everyone gets plenty of shots at the fish. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so when you're ready to lock in your dates during this hot spring season, don't wait too long. The best fishing days book up fast, and you don't want to miss out on some of the year's most productive action for scup and black sea bass.