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Test your angling skill with Yankee Fleet’s 12-hour deep water jig fishing marathon off Gloucester’s rugged coast. Dive into the challenge of bait-free jigging in profound Atlantic depths.
Test your angling skill with Yankee Fleet’s 12-hour deep water jig fishing marathon off Gloucester’s rugged coast. Dive into the challenge of bait-free jigging in profound Atlantic depths.
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Operated by Yankee Fleet · Gloucester, Massachusetts
Located off the rocky coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts, Yankee Fleet offers a distinctive 12-hour deep water jig fishing marathon designed to test the skill and endurance of seasoned anglers. This intense voyage plunges into depths between 315 and 520 feet, where anglers rely solely on jigs and un-baited teasers—an uncommon, bait-free technique that sharpens precision and patience on the open Atlantic.
Gloucester is a vital hub for commercial and recreational fishing, steeped in a rich maritime history dating back to the early 1600s. The waters here teem with a variety of deepwater species such as haddock and cod, inhabiting the rugged seabed shaped by ancient glacial activity. This unique ecosystem provides not just a challenging environment, but a rewarding one for those seeking hard-fought catches.
Yankee Fleet’s Deep Water Jig Fishing trip stands apart by its strict gear requirements and all-day dedication to jigging. Participants use heavy tackle—14 to 16 oz jigs paired with 50-80 lb test line—to combat strong currents and sizable fish. The absence of bait amplifies the skill required, compelling anglers to master the rhythm and feel of the lure in deep, often cold ocean waters.
Beyond the adrenaline of the catch, the trip grants unparalleled views of the Atlantic’s changing moods—from fog-shrouded mornings to gust-driven afternoons. Coupled with expert local guides, Yankee Fleet ensures an experience that’s equal parts challenge and education, connecting visitors to Gloucester’s maritime culture.
For anglers eager to push their limits in a historic fishing ground, this marathon offers a rare blend of technical demand and oceanic beauty—a true standout adventure on the Massachusetts coast.
expert.
12 hours.
Requires solid endurance for long hours on a moving boat and the strength to handle heavy tackle.
While not mandatory, familiarity with jigging techniques greatly improves your chances of success and enjoyment.
Anglers should bring their own food and water to stay energized throughout the day.
The trip is best suited for experienced anglers due to the physical and technical demands of deep water jigging.
Yankee Fleet limits guests per trip to ensure personalized guidance and safety onboard.
Expect deepwater species like cod, haddock, and pollock in Gloucester’s offshore waters.
High winds, rough seas, or storms will postpone trips to ensure safety.
Gloucester is America’s oldest seaport, with a fishing tradition spanning more than 400 years, shaping its identity and economy.
Yankee Fleet adheres to sustainable practices including catch limits and selective gear rules to protect fish populations and ocean health.
Yankee Fleet in Gloucester, Massachusetts, operates guided fishing trips focused on overnight and jigging experiences. The fleet offers an Overnight Fishing - One Night aboard the Yankee Star, a 22-hour trip targeting haddock and halibut with limited capacity for a more personalized experience. Bunks are available for overnight comfort, and a cash-only galley is onboard. The Marathon is a 12-hour trip that departs at 5am and runs with approximately 30% fewer participants to maximize space and fishing time. The 10 Hour Jigging Trip is a daylight jigging outing designed to return before sunset, delivering extended jigging time and scenic coastal fishing. Deep Water Jig Fishing is a 12-hour, jig-only marathon that fishes between 315 and 520 feet using un-baited teasers; this bait-free deep-water program debuted in fall 2019. Crews provide expert guidance on tackle selection and technique suitable for each trip type, helping anglers adapt to specific methods such as jigging or deep-water tactics. Yankee Fleet emphasizes clear trip descriptions, specific departure times, and onboard amenities to help anglers prepare. The business serves Gloucester anglers and visiting fishers seeking targeted trips for haddock, halibut, and other groundfish species common to local waters. With a mix of overnight endurance trips, reduced-capacity marathon days, and specialized jigging programs, Yankee Fleet offers anglers distinct options to match experience level and fishing goals. Passengers are advised to review trip details before booking, bring weather-appropriate clothing, and follow crew instructions; clear pre-trip information and crew guidance support preparation and safety for each specific fishing experience.
Book with Yankee Fleet