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Spend a captivating seven hours bottom fishing for haddock off Gloucester’s historic coast. Perfect for anglers of all levels, this trip pairs hands-on action with the lore and natural beauty of one of New England’s iconic fishing towns.
Spend a captivating seven hours bottom fishing for haddock off Gloucester’s historic coast. Perfect for anglers of all levels, this trip pairs hands-on action with the lore and natural beauty of one of New England’s iconic fishing towns.
Book with Angelica Fisheries
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Angelica Fisheries · Gloucester, Massachusetts
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.
moderate.
7 hours.
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to handle standing, occasional lifting, and reeling during the trip.
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.
Haddock is the primary target, but you may also encounter cod and pollock during the trip.
There is no specified minimum or maximum age, but guests should be in good health to participate for seven hours.
No, meals are not included, so bringing snacks and water is recommended for the day.
Please refer to the booking platform for detailed cancellation terms.
The meeting point is at 63 Rodgers St, Gloucester, Massachusetts.
Gloucester is America’s oldest seaport, with a fishing tradition dating back to 1623, fueling its cultural identity and economy.
Sustainable bottom fishing practices are encouraged to protect fish stocks and maintain healthy marine ecosystems in this historic fishing region.
Angelica Fisheries is a Gloucester, Massachusetts-based charter operator providing a variety of fishing experiences in New England waters. The business runs multiple trip formats including 12-hour bluefin tuna charters, open-boat tuna trips, 3/4-day and half-day bottom fishing for haddock, and targeted shark fishing excursions. Captains Joe, Jay, and Dave lead the listed trips, offering anglers opportunities to fish aboard both guided charters and open-boat commercial-participation trips. Trips include commercial harvest opportunities on selected tuna outings and hands-on bottom fishing for haddock on half-day and 3/4-day trips. Several shark trips focus on local species found off Gloucester, and light-tackle techniques are used to provide an engaging experience. Angelica Fisheries positions each trip to highlight the fishing, the process of harvest when applicable, and regional regulations that govern sustainable fishing. Operating from Gloucester, the company leverages local knowledge of seasonal fish movements and regional waters. Guests receive direct instruction from the captains named on each listing and participate in boat operations consistent with the trip format. Information about trip lengths, target species, and captain assignments is listed with each offering so anglers can select the right experience. Angelica Fisheries emphasizes transparent trip descriptions and clear expectations so anglers understand boat type, target species, and any commercial-harvest participation prior to booking.
Book with Angelica Fisheries