Do I need previous fishing experience?

No, the trip is suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. All bait and tackle are provided and Captain Dave will guide you through the process.

What fish species can I expect to catch?

Haddock is the primary target, but you may also encounter cod and pollock during the trip.

Is there a weight or age limit for participants?

There is no specified minimum or maximum age, but guests should be in good health to participate for seven hours.

Are meals provided on the trip?

No, meals are not included, so bringing snacks and water is recommended for the day.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please refer to the booking platform for detailed cancellation terms.

Where do we meet for departure?

The meeting point is at 63 Rodgers St, Gloucester, Massachusetts.

Thrilling 7-Hour Haddock Bottom Fishing Adventure in Gloucester, Massachusetts | Fishing | Boat Tour

Off the rugged coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts, lies a fishing experience that draws both seasoned anglers and curious novices eager to test their skills on the Atlantic’s rich waters. The Open Boat 3/4 Day Trip with Captain Dave offers an unforgettable seven-hour bottom fishing excursion focused on hooking haddock, a prized species known for its firm, white meat and culinary appeal. Departing from 63 Rodgers St, this intimate trip welcomes small groups of up to six, ensuring a personalized and engaging day on the ocean.

Gloucester, a city steeped in 400 years of maritime heritage, serves as the perfect launching point for this hands-on fishing journey. The waters here are part of a vibrant ecosystem shaped by coastal currents and the protective shelf of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary nearby, creating an abundant habitat for haddock alongside cod and pollock. This trip invites you to connect directly with these dynamic marine environments.

The adventure is built to accommodate varying skill levels. Captain Dave provides all bait and tackle, removing any guesswork for newcomers while still offering a hands-on, authentic experience for fishing enthusiasts. Spending the better part of the day battling the sea’s ebb and flow, participants find themselves immersed in more than just fishing; it’s a blend of skill, patience, and the thrill of a fresh catch breaking the surface.

What sets this trip apart is its focus on bottom fishing — a technique that requires dropping lines to the seabed where haddock gather. This targeted approach goes beyond casual fishing, offering a direct connection to local fishing traditions. As you support sustainable catch-and-release practices promoted by Gloucester’s tight-knit fishing community, you also get to savor stories of the sea passed down through generations.

Aside from the fishing action, the coastal scenery is an ever-changing backdrop. From crisp sea air and the expanse of blue horizon to seals and seabirds tracing your boat's wake, there’s a sensory richness that makes every moment immersive. While the focus is on fishing, the day also becomes a self-guided tour of New England’s Atlantic coastline — a living mosaic of history, nature, and human endeavor.

Whether you’re after the prize haddock, the thrill of salty camaraderie, or simply time spent in the outdoors, this Open Boat trip with Captain Dave provides a rare chance to step into the role of sea angler in one of America’s most storied fishing ports.