Bass

Striped Bass and Bluefish Fishing Frenzy at Scituate, MA

Bass moving in.

 Fall for something fake

Shortfin Mako shark Fishing

Cows are on the move 

Speedsters leave a wake 

Cleanup Duty

Hard bottom = COD!

sharks and more sharks

Rude tuna

Sizable schools of super-sized striped bass 

Real Gators

 Signature chomp of a halibut

Bass big enough to dispatch

Boston Fishing Report 

 Those big “marks”

Western Edge 

 “Sea monsters”

Opportunistic feeders

keeper cod awaits

 Cull through market-size cod

Bottom Composition 

Goal for this Week

Teeming with forage

 Inside scope of the lobster pot 

Sink a Mackerel Down !

Bumper crop of bait 

“Well, I had it all to myself!”

Found Them

Striped Bass are around

Sea Moster!

 I found him in Florida

Mosquito Lagoon 

Legit fish  had Great week fishing 

Gearing up for 2023 Massachusetts Fishing Charter Season!

Massachusetts Bay Striped Bass Fishing

Boston Bluefin Tuna Fishing

BlueFin Charter Fishing near Boston is Hot!

BlueFin Tuna

Boston Fishing - Striped Bass & Cod!

Mob of Makos Off Scituate 

Ground game 

Steering Clear 

Sizzling Summers

Bluefin football biomass 

School Tuna

Big Bass 

Boston Fishing 2022

Schoolie In Massachusetts

Swarming

For a one-of-a-kind fishing experience on the South Shore, step aboard the “Legit Fish” with Master USCG Licensed Captain, Mark Rowell and crew, to experience inshore fishing charters or extreme offshore fishing charters from Scituate, Massachusetts!&nbsp;Captain Mark Rowell &amp; the Legit Fish Sportfishing team is the perfect choice for serious Boston and Cape Cod charter fishing in style. Your charter can fit up to six anglers--for Bluefin Tuna / Shark Trips, the Captain recommends a limit of 4 guests--or book a custom charter for large groups with multiple boats. On board the brand new Catamaran fishing vessel, you’ll find a full marine head for guests, multimedia system, top-notch Gramin navigational electronics, live well, and 2 Icom VHF radio. All USCG safety equipment is provided to ensure your trip is safe and secure.&nbsp;Legit Fish Sportfishing specializes in high-adventure inshore and offshore trips for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Trip options include jigging for ground fish off Stellwagen Bank, such as spring Haddock, and early summer inshore trips that target striped bass, bluefish, bluefin tuna and shark, or, the deep sea adventurer can book a full Tuna fishing charter and head miles offshore for some action-packed fishing fun.&nbsp;More seasonal options include:May-June: Flounder, Striped Bass Seabass, Haddock, Pollock, MackerelMay-October: Striped Bass, BluefishLate May-November: Jigging and Popping Bluefin TunaJuly-September: Offshore and Canyon Fishing – Yellowfin, Big Eye, Mahi, Blue Fin, Swordfish, MarlinAugust-September: Gait Bluefin Tuna, Shark, Bonito, False Albacore (Inshore tuna)October/November: Fall Tautog(blackfish), Sea bass&nbsp;Secure your spot today and get ready for a fishing adventure like nothing you've experienced before with Legit Fish Sportfishing!&nbsp;

EPSG:4269

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters and crew were in the midst of jigging up mackerel just inside state waters when they saw the fins. A school of stripers up to 51” was also there looking for a mack snack. As is often the case when in open water, the fish were fussy, but the captain came stealthily prepared with 20-pound fluorocarbon leaders at the ready. That’s pretty flimsy stuff for fish of that size, but the captain said that the new bow-to-stern Daiwa gear he’s packing was more than up to the task. "on the Water"

Today was a great day out on the water with Sylvain on our Private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip at Scituate, MA. June is a prime time for inshore fishing in these parts, with striped bass and bluefish becoming more active as the waters warm up. The weather was partly cloudy throughout the day, but the conditions were otherwise excellent - the water was in great shape, and there was a nice breeze to keep things comfortable.

We had a full arsenal of techniques at the ready, gearing up with a mix of deep-sea, jigging, trolling, bait-casting, heavy tackle, kite fishing, light tackle, and drift fishing setups. Sylvain was eager to get after it, and we wasted no time getting the lines in the water. The early bite was a bit slow, but we kept working different areas and presentations until we started to find some fish. It wasn't long before we started getting into some nice stripers and blues, with the fish hitting our baits and lures with authority.

The action kept us busy, but we still had plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and camaraderie out on the water. Between the steady catches, we'd swap fishing stories, talk strategy, and take in the sights of the Scituate coastline. It's those little moments that make a day on the water so special - not just the number of fish, but the overall experience of being out on the water with good company.

If you're looking to get in on the inshore action at Scituate, MA, I'd highly recommend booking a Private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip with Legit Fish Sportfishing. Whether you're an experienced angler chasing trophy-sized fish or a newcomer looking to get your feet wet, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. From setting you up with the right gear and techniques to putting you on the fish, we'll handle all the details so you can focus on having a blast. So don't wait - reach out and let's get you booked for your own Cape Cod fishing adventure!

Captain

Embark on an unforgettable fishing frenzy at Scituate, MA, reeling in trophy-sized striped bass and bluefish as you soak in the scenic coastline – a true Cape Cod fishing adventure awaits.

Scituate's Striped Bass and Bluefish Bonanza

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

Trimix Fee

Discover world-class Striped Bass fishing at Race Point with Captain Mark and crew. These trips offer exciting opportunities to reel in trophy bass and hard-fighting Bluefish. Choose from 4-hour, 6-hour, or 8-hour trips, making it easy to fit fishing into any schedule. Perfect for families, beginners, and experienced anglers alike, these charters provide a fun and productive day on the water. Fishing licenses are included, and the trip covers up to five anglers. Bring your food and drinks to stay energized as you experience Cape Cod’s incredible fishery!

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefish

Striped Bass

Legit Fish

Bulman Marine at The Waterfront Club

4 hour

6 hour

8 hour

Private Stripers and Blues Fishing Trip

Inshore Fishing Frenzy: Striped Bass and Bluefish Abound at Scenic Scituate, MA

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters told me that once the seas settled down and rivers flushed out the “Yoohoo” colored water stripers returned to the North River. Mackerel remain hit-or-miss among inshore ledges, but when found are the perfect snack for river bass. Drifting on an outgoing tide by the Fourth Cliff has been especially good. The skipper’s gut tells him that haddock should be moving along the northeast rim of Stellwagen and just maybe onto the Middle Bank. On Sunday, he intends to find out. "On the Water"

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been putting most of his effort into the North River as slots pound alewives with focal points where the main river meets up with the herring river tributaries. The skipper did say that the crew is spotting far larger specimens blasting the herring which are reluctant to fall for something fake. "on the Water"


Shortfin Mako Shark

Daytona Beach Florida open Dates this winter (1 hr from Disney) if anyone is heading south this winter Jan 10, 11, 12. 
Feb 16,-21 (speed week)  April 19-26 (Jeep Beach week ) 
Nearshore and Backwater charter targeting Shortfin Mako shark! 

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters corroborated the news that cows are on the move along the SW corner of Stellwagen Bank. What just might be pausing their movements is the swarms of tinker mackerel which can be found throughout the bank. Anglers having luck with tuna are passing on the tiny bait in favor of whiting. Sharp-eyed tuna no doubt can spot a hooked tinker but are less likely to notice a hook buried in the bigger bait. That philosophy paid off for the crew, which on Middlebank brought a beast of a bluefin boatside the other day. There are plenty of haddock out there but as for cod, ledge, rocks, wrecks within 5 miles of the shoreline are a better bet. You can put those tinker mackerel to good use in the North River for stripers running between 24-40”! The key is moving water with diminishing returns during slack. I also received a tip from Bill Hurley that cookie cutter schoolies could not resist the Hurley stick bait in the South River on Thursday with the bite lasting until mid-day. "on the water"

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been shaking things up beyond the South Shore while taking charters out to fish for false albacore and Spanish mackerel in the Craigsvillle Beach area in Nantucket Sound. There have been no shortage of bass and blues occupying cleanup duty as those southern speedsters leave a wake of injured/dead bay anchovies in their wake. Locally the skippers pick is the North River where the bait buffet of baby bunker, herring fry and tinker mackerel are keeping stripers in check. Squid are swarming throughout Stellwagen with the SW corner chock full of Charlie in the 60” category. " on the water"

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been shaking things up beyond the South Shore while taking charters out to fish for false albacore and Spanish mackerel in the Craigsvillle Beach area in Nantucket Sound. There have been no shortage of bass and blues occupying cleanup duty as those southern speedsters leave a wake of injured/dead bay anchovies in their wake. Locally the skippers pick is the North River where the bait buffet of baby bunker, herring fry and tinker mackerel are keeping stripers in check. Squid are swarming throughout Stellwagen with the SW corner chock full of Charlie in the 60” category. "on the water"

“Hard bottom” within 3 miles of much of the South Shore is holding cod according to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters. The conundrum is that the shallower structure is more likely to give up smaller rock cod while “white bellies” up to 35” are falling for clams between 2 1/2-5 miles once Scituate Harbor is cleared. Blues and bass have been busting peanut bunker all across the South Shore from Plymouth to Peggotty Beach. The North River has been noteworthy as well as has the Cliffs. The acquisition of mackerel is not a problem as they can be found among inshore eddies and upwellings in as little as 40’. Some major bluefin can be found in the SW Corner of Stellwagen Bank but you can expect company because the word is out. You’re not likely to find Captain Rowell among the fleet as he has his sites on Charlie in the same Cape Cod Bay areas he’s finding cod!

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters out of Scituate said that sharks have been taking a liking to his boat! The other day he had a monster blue shark that kept bumping his engines, worrying the captain that it might take a chomp out of them. While floating a mackerel for Charlie, a thresher shark kept thumping the balloons with its massive tail. There’s good reason to deal with the occasional toothy nuisance however as “jumpers” that look to be grander giants have been observed chasing halfbeaks. Not all has been sideshows as haddock continue to cooperate halfway between port in Scituate Harbor and Stellwagen Bank. It’s tempting for the captain to just stay in port with all the striper-on-peanut bunker action in the harbor. While most would think that the five Bs – bass, blues, bonito, black sea bass, and blackfish – would be enough to satisfy, Captain Jason Colby keeps trying to give his crew a little more. Soon that will include the cornucopia of critters which call Coxes Ledge home – especially cod! In addition to the very real prospects of finding cod, it’s also nice to know that as of September 1st in the Southern New England area anglers will be able to keep up to 5 cod at a minimum of 23”. Get your arsenal of jigs ready! "on the water" "on the water"

I’ve heard many an adjective used to describe tuna but never until now the word – rude! That was just the description used by Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters to portray pelagics which have been engulfing haddock at boat side. When those tanks have not dispatched his catch, the catching has been quite good with 10 fish per person outings common. The bite remains impressive halfway between Scituate Harbor and Stellwagen. File this one away for the open season of September 1st- white-bellied cod are gathering around rocks and wrecks within 3 miles of the shoreline. Blitzes in the Three Bays, Scituate Harbor and numerous other locations have become a reality as peanut bunker have arrived. Three-inch white/pearl paddletials will catch what can be fussy feeds for those not matching the hatch. "on the water"

Beautiful coastal landscape of Scituate, Massachusetts

It’s been looking like a boat show over much of the South Shore with sizable schools of super-sized striped bass pounding pogies. Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters sent me a video of a scene just beyond his backdoor that looked like a mooring field as boat after boat jockeyed for position over pogy schools. The mob of menhaden as well as their pursuers have been moving back and forth from Plymouth through Scituate with no rhyme or reason as to where they will appear next. I guess something can be said for an even playing field. Manomet Point has been mentioned as one of the more consistent spots with honorable mention going to White Cliff. The bass on the bunker are beasts with most begin caught on what drew the predators in – pogies. While interesting, the captain has been steering clear of the flotilla and taking a short sprint out to Stone Ledge where he’s been limiting out on haddock in record time. The fish are there for small shrimp and sand eels making 3” pink/white Gulp lethal. While in the can’t-touch-this-status until September, cod on higher sections of the ledges are numerous and impressive. The sweet spot for the haddock is 200’, while the cod are shallower in about 185’. "On The Water"

While Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters did not have a halibut make mince meat out of any groundffish this week, he did encounter a different sort of toothy fish in deep water. Big blues, which have largely been absent from Massbay so far, were falling for mackerel intended for a certain extra large flatfish. According to Mark those blues were real gators and found by Stone Ledge. Maybe this could be the first wave of more of a bluefish presence across our coast. The haddock bite has been good from Stellwagen Bank through Cape Cod Bay with the sweet spot 200’ of water. "on the water"

Three bluefish caught while fishing in MA

Anyone who knows Captain Mark Rowell knows that the Legit Fish Charters skipper is a practitioner of the calm, cool, collective mindset. That resolve was sorely tested on Sunday when he put a charter in position to land the fish of a lifetime – a monster Atlantic halibut! Mark is no stranger to landing the world’s largest flatfish, so when he pegs the weight at 200 pounds that estimate is – legit! The venue was Stone Ledge, the quarry was haddock but the captain and the crew were ready for the ever-present prospects of hooking into something far larger. In between a good pick of haddock and off-season market cod, one of the anglers came up with a cod and en eviscerated whiting on one of the rigs. While some might blame a shark for the damage done to the whiting, Mark immediately recognized the signature chomp of a halibut. His hunch was confirmed by live imaging on his Lawrence electronics which had the captain and first mate struggling to catch their breath.  broken rod This broken rod and tattered braid was all that was left from a duel with a monster halibut aboard Legit Fish. The captain immediately dropped the half a whiting towards the bottom when the rod bent and shook from the weight of what he knew was the halibut. His Contender is equipped with conventional gear suited for such warfare and while it took a while, the captain and mate were well on their way towards landing that halibut when the rod was passed among the patrons on board. The barn door sized halibut was but a few feet away with Mark at the ready with a harpoon when one of the crew grabbed the top of the rod causing it to break. The broken blank was bad enough, but the resulting fraying of the 80 pound braid as they still tried to land the fish proved lethal. The reaction of most captains after losing such a fish would have been loud enough to jam nearby GPS units but Mark gave a typical “meh, we’ll get ‘em next time” shrug. That next time may be soon enough because Mark has on good authority that that fish was not alone! Just maybe best of all, those beasts are within 7 miles of the shoreline! "on the water"

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters told me he’s recently found pogies just outside of Scituate Harbor along with bass big enough to dispatch them. Those intent on chasing Charlie should bet on the bank between the NW corner out to the middle of Stellwagen. You’ll also find haddock there as well as intermittently on Stone Ledge. For a shot at a halibut consider a chunk or whole mackerel, whiting or sea herring along the northern edge of the shipping lanes. "on the water"

We had a fantastic time fishing in Boston! Everyone on the trip had a blast and came away with new knowledge and skills. Don't miss out—book your Boston fishing charter today for an unforgettable experience!

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters told me he’s having no trouble finding them in CCB now. What he’s also spotting under the schools is huge marks. When asked if those might have been big bass beginning to migrate he said “those fish are not pushing the bait upward, so what do you think they are?”. The point being that bass have to move the bait towards the surface to dispatch them while tuna simply snap them up with ease! Fishery regulators have freed up additional quota for giants on Sunday, so timing for those big “marks” in Cape Cod Bay may be good. Don’t delay if you want a brute of a bluefin; doubtless that quota won’t be open for long. "On The Water"

For a better bead on where cod are congregating I consulted Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters who told me that the western edge of Stone Ledge in about 204’ has been the sweet spot. If while pounding lead or jigs on the bottom, the unmistakable “suction” sensation of mud is being transmitted through your line than you’re in haddock territory, if you’re jig is coming up with chips/divots marring it’s finish than more likely you’re going to find cod. The fish have been full of shrimp making pink teasers hot! As for stripers, not surprisingly they are on the move with previously quiet estuaries/rivers reloaded with life. "On The Water"

Captain Mark of Legit Fish Charters said that bluefish have pushed mackerel inshore and up against ledge with tuna in tow! “Sea monsters” up to 110” have been following both species with some of those brutes as close as 4 miles out! While targeting tuna with RonZs, the Legit Fish crew got a surprise in cod up to 30 pounds! Close to rockpiles/ledge you’re likely to find rock cod, while white-bellies are more likely to be found in 80-90’ in open water. Along with haddock, “fun-sized” 2 – 3 pound pollock have been prevalent. The skipper usually cruises into port with mackerel in the livewell to treat patrons to some fast paced striper action right in Scituate Harbor! As Mark put it, the harbor is so stacked with stripers, you could “walk on them!”. "On The Water"

Of course something can be said for the Gulf of Maine, especially if you’re Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters. Bass and blues aren’t the only species packing on the protein right now; from the Southwest Corner of Stellwagen all the way to Scantum tuna are on a tear. Slack tide at the edge of drop-offs with a bluefish on the line is the trick according to Captain Rowell. Some of these fish are pushing bait on the surface as close as five miles out from Scituate Harbor and when breaching the surface look like “school buses.” As for cod, the skipper has been catching 10-15 pound “white bellies” in 90-114’ of water. The edges of different structure, especially where hard bottom abuts mud, is where you’ll find more forage as well as opportunistic feeders such as cod. Small green teasers are a good option to match the ubiquitous spike mackerel. Bunker in both big and small versions can be found from Plymouth to Point Allerton and are holding both bass and blues. You’ll have to search for mackerel but once found will not last long among rocky outcroppings of the South Shore. "On the water"

According to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters, your keeper cod awaits you on the South Shore among most any interesting bottom structure in 75’ of water. On a recent haddock trip to Stone Ledge the crew had to cull through about 100 cod to catch a half dozen haddock! The patrons also put the pedal to an impressive porbeagle which was released after giving an upper state New York bunch an experience they never get up there. Stripers from schoolie to beyond slot are chasing peanuts in the Three Bays, Green Harbor, Scituate Harbor and among embayments all along the South Shore.

"on The Water" 

What fishers do care about in deep water is cod! Beginning September 1st and lasting until October 31st, anglers will be able to keep one cod per person at a minimum of 22” in the GOM and state waters. Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has had personal experience with this as he has had to cull through market-size cod to catch haddock. The Stone Ledge area in 205’ of water is holding both species as well as slab Arcadian Redfish of 2-3 pounds! South Shore harbors such as Scituate are chock full of peanut bunker and silversides which is keeping stripers in check. "On the Water"

Fisherman holding a large Atlantic cod in MA

There’s more of a pogy presence now on the South Shore. Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been experiencing the smaller version in Scituate Harbor as well as Cohasset with adults hanging around the North River. Blues are less of a factor which may be the reason that mackerel acquisition is a bit easier. Those macks tossed around structure from The Gurnet through High Pine Ledge to Cowen Rocks as well as off Gunrock Beach are resulting in a reliable slot-to-larger bass bite. With an influx of peanut bunker, blitzes are getting more common which bodes well for a significant fall run.  Haddock as well as double-digit cod can be found by the Double LLs on Stellwagen. Having a feel as to bottom composition matters as cod are more likely to frequent rocky, irregular bottom while mud is good for haddock. Just maybe best of all is the lack of dogfish, making clams and other types of bait a viable option. For consistent blues, Provincetown is where it’s at, with everything from snappers to gators figuring in the mix.

Angler holding a 15-inch fish in Scituate, Massachusetts

When I spoke to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters last week, he told me that his goal for this week was to land a halibut, and boy did he come close to pulling it off. In 202’ of “mud” inside the shipping lanes of Cape Cod Bay while fishing a whiting close to the bottom the crew came tight to a halibut. These guys were prepared with tuna-grade gear loaded with 80 pound braid and a top shot of 100 pound fluorocarbon leader. They had the beast on for 45 minutes when the braid gave out! Far from an aberration, a nearby cohort of the captain landed – 3 halibut! Suffice to say the skipper knows where these things are; the timing of a trip for this fish-of-a-lifetime may not ever be better! While hoping for halibut, tuna were active in the same spot as were bigger-than-average whiting. Stone Ledge is holding some haddock, in fact I’m hearing of an overall increase in haddock harvests throughout the GOM as well. "on the water"

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish’ mantra could be, “there’s no place like home”! During a time when big bait is lacking, finding 6” striper snacks at port is a huge advantage. South Shore and South Coast harbors are teeming with forage with everywhere from Westport to Green Harbor through Cohasset Harbor holding plenty of low 30-inch stripers along with the occasional tackle tester. Captain Rowell believes it’s baby bunker which are keeping the fish in place. With no big schools of pogies throughout the Bay State, the opportunistic bass continue to be found where there is reliable forage and that can be anything from krill to crabs to herring to mackerel and possibly even peanuts. A live mackerel by day or eel at night shouldn’t last long wherever you find the stripers. The south-of-the-Hub sweet spot for cows seems to be between the 21 Can and Minot Ledge. Commercials who have been needing a dolly to move their coolers have been observed trolling X-Raps back and forth between those two areas. As for Race Point, it is loaded with bluefish! "on the water"

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has an interesting take on blues/bass and bluefin off Race Point. While the forage is pretty consistent in both sand eels/mackerel, the fish associate to structure and current differently. Among the inside scope of the lobster pot lines, striped bass stage with 30’ of water a good place to start, outside of the pots in 40-45’ water blues lurk. Deeper still in 50’ depths pelagics patrol hoping for an errant bluefish to wander into the line of fire. For bass and blues trolling mackerel is working well with size fish varying between slot-and-up for stripers and blues of both snapper and gator proportions. Scituate Harbor as well as the North River are still holding plenty of stripers with most fish hovering around the slot size. The find of the week may be haddock near Stone Ledge! For some reason summer and Stone Ledge just work well for haddock.

"On The Water"  

For consistent CCB blues, according to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters, Race Point is the place to be. Should you desire one of the slot stripers that are swimming below the choppers, sink a mackerel down quickly and deeper with an egg sinker or fish finder rig. Closer to Scituate, Mark is finding steady slots most everywhere especially among inshore ledge where stripers are rummaging around for a lobster dinner but won’t pass on a lively mack. Tuna fishing remains terrific with the sweet spot between Peaked Hill Bar and the NW corner of Stellwagen. Sand eels/mackerel continue to keep Charlie in check at those spots. "On The Water"

A striped bass caught by two people in Scituate

As for the fishing, a bumper crop of bait is often the key to catching. From the SW corner of Stellwagen out through Peaked Hill scads of sand eels have attracted school to medium tuna making casting or trolling for them with RonZ soft plastic stick baits deadly! Mark has been into a pile of pelagics up to 68” but tuna don’t play by our rules so there’s always the risk of a giant coming to play and then things get really interesting. Mackerel are prevalent with the wildcard being harbor pollock among most of the inshore ledge/rockpiles along the South Shore. While not as effective as mackerel, the small pollock make for pretty good bait also. " On the Water"

“Well, I had it all to myself!”, was the comment from Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters when we spoke this week. The “it” he was referring to was a major mass of big bass – up to 50” – that had been parked off Scituate and through Hull for days! Word spread quickly and soon there was nary a parking spot available at public launches. While there is evidence that some of those stripers have moved northward, this is still a place worth considering. Ledges not far from known aggregates of mackerel are where the action is. Minot Ledge and Harding’s Ledge had been two of the hottest. Captain Mark also said that the tuna bite off the edge of Stellwagen is outstanding. With sand eels among the most populous forage, RonZs have been a killer of a lure. His tip is to look for the “froth” as in the roiled water where current meets up with drop-offs. Ledge is holding good cod but haddock are few and far between. What you will see out there is no shortage of draggers; with so few haddock and cod largely off the table it’s anyone’s guess what the target is. "On The Water"

As of this writing I was still awaiting word from Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters who had heard of Plymouth pogy prospects, principally off Manomet. Most everyone knows how hot that spot was when big bass collided with pods of pogies last year resulting in incredible fishing. The North River still is holding fish albeit schoolies while slot and bigger can be found by the mouth of the river, beaches and embayments. Tinker mackerel are proving easier to find and are such good bait most feel that the effort is worth it. "on the water"

A striped bass, measuring 27 inches, caught in Scituate

While you’ll still find striped bass around herring runs such as the Town River, South River and North River, the feed has followed the forage farther out. I wasn’t surprised to hear Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters tell me that Scituate Harbor has woken up and stripers now can be found all throughout it. Tinker macks just outside the harbor as well as outside of The Gurnet are a snack too tempting to pass up for stripers still sniffing around for river herring. Mark also talked about tautog in the 5 to 6 pound category which are mostly finished with spawning in estuaries and have now taken up residence among rockpiles, wrecks and ledges as close as a 1/2 mile off the coast of the South Shore. In order to buy live crabs you’ll have to travel to a cape shop, but a loaded crab trap placed near marinas or bridges most anywhere along the South Shore should find its mark in short order. Seaworms and clams, while not as effective as crabs, make for adequate bait also. Many of that same inshore structure holds cod as well, but for haddock, count on steaming to the “mud” on Stellwagen or east of it. What you won’t have to work too hard to catch is those darn sea ravens which seem to be everywhere. "On The Water"

With less striped bass in our realm, to avoid disappointment, it wouldn’t hurt to diversify and appreciate unintended surprises. Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters was practically ecstatic about a fish most would give short shrift to – namely, a sea raven! This one was quite the specimen as it was estimated to be between 12 and 15 pounds! All the more remarkable was that it engulfed a live mackerel in 9’ of water at the mouth of the North River! As for targeted species the captain has been loading up on mackerel and fishing them throughout the North River where he’s finding all the slots he can handle. Haddock have been elusive while there’s plenty of cod hovering near most inshore humps. Joining their cod cousins are ling in larger numbers than have been seen in a while.  "on the water"

Redfish

 The weeks of “forecast light” are over and we can thank opening day for that! While meaning no disrespect to the Fenway Faithful, the opening days I’m referring to have nothing to do with base-running or fly balls but rather lake trout, landlocked salmon, haddock and cod!  Massachusetts South Shore/South Coast Fishing Report It’s not unusual to feature Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters in the South Shore report but this time I found him in Florida which is a little more southerly than this column usually covers. Once he got through tormenting me with tales of snook, sea trout, redfish and permit, we got to “real fish”, namely cod and haddock. The GOM cod season begins April 1st and for now ends April 14th with a one fish per person bag limit at 22” minimum. Also at least for the month of April is a 20 fish bag limit for haddock at a minimum of 17”. Moving into May regulations are to be decided. Soon the skipper will be shoving off from his slip in Scituate for those two species and when asked how far out he said, “You could reach them with your kayak!”. Just outside of Duxbury in about 70’ of water both bottom dwellers were swimming for much of the spring last year! He also passed along a tip on tautog as numbers seem to be on the uptick around Minot Ledge.

"On The Water" 

Red Grouper

New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins State Historic Site - Volusia, FL

Sheepshead

Florida Pompano

Quick trip to Florida for captain Dave captain Mark spent the weekend on the flats of New Smyrna mosquito lagoon covered, a lot of water, picked up multiple species, pompano, redfish, trout sheepshead in group.

Gag Grouper

Black Drum

Red Snapper

<div>Great week of fishing down south with Legit fish we targeted multiple species of fish ensure an offshore great to get some sun after a long winter</div>

Scenic view of Scituate coastline with fishing gear

We are eagerly awaiting Spring weather so we can get the boat in the water in May! We will open the fishing charter season with spring Striper, Black Sea Bass, Cod, Haddock fishing, then head out in end of may and beginning of June for Tuna, Bluefish, Sharks, and ground fishing. We can't wait to get on the water this season, so be sure to confirm your charter dates to get in on this highly anticipated successful season! 

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters is having to keep on the move to find feeding fish during these fall months.  The crew found schoolies off Marshfield and the next day that same body of fish was off Plymouth. For a south shore best bet for a bigger bass, estuaries and rivers at night throughout Mass bay are the top pick! "on the water" 

bass

According to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters, Charlie continues to cooperate between the SE corner of Stellwagen and Peaked Hill Bar. For a chance at larger, stagger mackerel or sea herring on the Middle Bank.  I expected to hear of a hot tuna bite from Captain Rowell but didn’t see a blackfish bite coming! It seems a friend of his has been targeting tautog in the Minot section for years and numbers appear to be on the rise. The ubiquitous green crab is easy to collect with a crab trap/rack of a fish dropped near a bridge or pier overnight more often than not coming up with enough bait for an outing. "on the water"

Boston Bluefin

It’s not often that a charter captain tells a patron NOT to cast towards a big fish, but that was the case aboard Legit Fish Charters! The biggest tuna Captain Mark Rowell ever saw came completely out of the water during a recent trip and with the quota closed he told his eager crew to hold off deployment of the baits. Cognizant of the multi-hour war of attrition it would take to bring such a beast boatside, only to have to release it, it made little sense risking the survival of that great fish. So the group held off and was rewarded with a 60” butterball that they could keep. Word has it that later, as the charter savored the sushi, they agreed that it was a good move! What’s also was a pretty good move was staggering mackerel baits a half mile northeast of the Stellwagen Bank shipping lane in 109’ of water. "On The Water"

Scenic landscape of Scituate with fishing gear

BlueFin Charter is Hot!

Blue Fin Bite is Red Hot ! Tuna of all sizes are here. Legit Fish has  few spots left for 2022 Seasons. 

Striper in Scituate Harbor with fresh sea lice covered 28-32” fish adding to resident bass. Go small for fish throughout the South Shore as prevalent forage consists of bay anchovies, river herring fry and of course peanut bunker! Rock cod are common among irregular bottom but for a shot at a white-belly (deep water cod) then plan on fishing in at least 200’ of water

A large Atlantic Cod fish caught in Scituate

Cod!

Regardless of what you hook you had better crank that critter in as fast as possible save getting your catch chomped by a shark! And the variety of sharks out there reads like a who’s who of toothies as blues, threshers, porbeagles as well as a mob of makos are all in "abundance!  "otw"

Mob of makos 

Haddock fishing has been in Cape Cod Bay, he said that he couldn’t say for sure since it was hard to get a bait past all the cod! While the final decision on GOM/state waters cod hasn’t been made, in all probability it will be one fish per person at 22” September 1st through October 8th.

Steering clear of the fleet and tossing mackerel among rockpiles from Green Harbor through Cohasset and finding everything from schoolies to cows. Yes, mackerel aren’t extinct but it takes an early rise to locate them before bluefish scatter the schools. "on the water"

Recalling previous sizzling summers I asked Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters if he thought Cape Cod Bay would get a peanut mahi mahi appearance as has been the case in the past. I was surprised when he told me that in some cases water temperatures have actually cooled! When the heat is on 

According to Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters, cooler waters have moved much of the football biomass off of the Middle bank and more towards the southern edge of Stellwagen and Peaked Hill Bar. While there are a multitude of ways to catch these 80 pound fish, the skipper has been finding t

The Tuna fishing off of Cape Cod has been incredible. The tuna bite has been so consistent this year! Just a short drive from Boston Cape Cod is a fantastic option for a day trip or a weekend trip. Book your trip today for your shot at a once in a lifetime Bluefin Tuna. 

A few weeks we explored Boston Harbor searching for big Bass. That's not necessary anymore since the South Shore is now at least as hot as any place in the Bay State. Schools of pogies estimated at 200/300 yards long have appeared in Scituate, Stripers are heavy, and Tuna fishing in the Cape is here

Black Sea Bass

Atlantic Cod

 The giants have indeed moved into Cape Cod Bay with Cod and Stripers being the main attractants!  It’s almost difficult to drop a jig towards a bottom over structure in Cape Cod Bay and not come tight to a cod and some of the many other fish species We target

Jip and Top Water are successful in Boston and Cape Cod right now

Regarding Charlie

Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters has been spending some time at Race Point but has found little more than schoolie-to-slot fish. He’s expecting a wave of blues to sweep in in about a week. Ironically the volume of 20+ pound stripers which he is experiencing just outside of Scituate Harbor 

Schoolie 

For Captain Mark Rowell of Legit Fish Charters there really is no place like home. Under the lights of his slip in Scituate Harbor, stripers of all sizes can be seen swarming with the source of their interest sand eels! They are so fixated on this forage that a live mackerel tossed in the mix 

Scituate & Boston Charters with Legit Fish Sportfishing

Book your next Boston fishing charter adventure with Captain Mark Rowell, fishing from Scituate, MA for Tuna, Striped Bass and more!

Discover the ultimate Boston fishing experience with Legit Fish Sportfishing, led by the experienced Captain Mark. Operating out of Scituate, MA, our charters cater to anglers of all skill levels, offering thrilling inshore and offshore fishing adventures along the rich waters of Boston's fishing grounds. For those seeking the excitement of deep-sea fishing, our offshore trips target hard-fighting species like bluefin tuna, sharks, and Black Sea Bass, ensuring a high-adrenaline outing. Inshore enthusiasts can enjoy the calmer waters of Massachusetts Bay while pursuing prized catches such as Striped Bass and Bluefish, ideal for anglers looking for a rewarding and family-friendly experience. With a USCG-licensed captain and crew dedicated to your safety and success, Legit Fish Sportfishing ensures every trip is memorable. We provide top-notch equipment, local expertise, and a deep passion for fishing that guarantees a productive day on the water. Whether you're aiming for trophy tuna offshore or a limit of striper closer to shore, our charters are designed to deliver excitement, comfort, and results. Legit Fish Sportfishing stands out as the premier choice for Boston fishing charters, combining expert guidance, stunning coastal scenery, and the promise of unforgettable catches. Book your Boston fishing adventure today and experience firsthand why fishing with Legit Fish is the perfect way to explore the rich waters of the Massachusetts coastline!

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Easily change trip dates, times, or trip type by contacting Legit Fish from your receipt or right from our website! We look forward to fishing with you!

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Legit Fish Sportfishing- The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Boston, Massachusetts

With over 23 years of experience, Captain Mark Rowell has established himself as one of the top charter captains on the South Shore. His expertise and passion for fishing have earned him recognition, including appearances on Wicked Tuna, where his skills in landing big game fish were showcased. Over the years, Captain Mark has built a strong reputation among professional anglers and celebrities, offering top-tier fishing experiences that keep clients coming back year after year. His deep knowledge of the local waters, combined with a commitment to providing exceptional service, makes him a sought-after guide for anglers of all levels. Captain Mark specializes in extreme offshore fishing adventures, particularly targeting big game fish like Tuna. For those looking for a more relaxed fishing experience, he also offers inshore charters in Massachusetts Bay, where guests can catch Pogy, Striped Bass, and other popular species. Whether you prefer an adrenaline-pumping offshore challenge or a peaceful day exploring nearshore waters, Captain Mark tailors each trip to match your skill level and fishing goals. With his expert guidance, anglers of all experience levels have the opportunity to reel in impressive catches while enjoying the beauty of the Massachusetts coastline. For larger groups, Captain Mark can organize outings for up to 20 guests or more, making Legit Fish Sportfishing the perfect choice for Boston party boat trips, corporate outings, fishing tournaments, family reunions, and special events. Whether you’re planning a fun day on the water with friends or a competitive fishing excursion, he ensures that each trip is well-organized and packed with excitement. His ability to accommodate both small private charters and larger groups makes him a versatile and reliable choice for any fishing adventure. Our Boat: Captain Mark operates "Foiled," a custom 31' Hysucat Catamaran, designed for speed, efficiency, and comfort. Powered by twin 300HP Suzuki outboards, the vessel reaches a maximum cruising speed of 50 knots, allowing anglers to maximize their time fishing. The boat comfortably accommodates six anglers per trip, though four guests are recommended for Bluefin Tuna and Shark trips to ensure the best fishing experience. Onboard, guests will find top-of-the-line navigational electronics (Lowrance &amp; Furuno), an Icom VHF radio for communication, a full marine head (restroom), a multimedia system for entertainment, and premium safety equipment. Whether you're heading offshore for a high-energy fishing battle or staying inshore for a more relaxed trip, Legit Fish Sportfishing guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Cape Cod Bay Expert Captain | Captain Mark Rowell  

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Common Questions: Is fishing good in Boston?﻿Yes, fishing in Boston is excellent, with a variety of species available year-round. Legit Fish Sport Fishing offers premier charters that maximize your chances of a successful and enjoyable fishing experience in Boston's waters. What is the easiest fish to catch in Boston?The easiest fish to catch in Boston waters are typically species like mackerel, flounder, and scup, especially for beginners. Legit Fish Sport Fishing offers charters that cater to all skill levels, making it a great choice for those looking to reel in their first catch in Boston. Is Massachusetts known for fishing?Yes, Massachusetts is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly in areas like Scituate. Legit Fish Sport Fishing exemplifies this reputation, offering premier charters that showcase the state's fantastic fishing experiences. What types of fish can you catch on a Boston fishing charter?Fishing with Legit Fish Sportfishing, led by Captain Mark Rowell, offers the chance to catch a variety of species, including Striped Bass, Bluefish, Black Sea Bass, Bluefin Tuna, and Sharks. Whether you’re fishing inshore or offshore, the waters around Boston provide an abundance of exciting opportunities for anglers of all levels. What is the best time of year to book a fishing charter in Boston?The best time to book a Boston fishing charter depends on the species you’re targeting. Striped Bass and Bluefish are abundant from late spring to early fall, while Bluefin Tuna fishing peaks during the summer months into early fall. Legit Fish Sportfishing runs charters throughout the fishing season to ensure you experience the best of Boston’s fishing opportunities. How long do fishing charters in Boston typically last?Legit Fish Sportfishing offers a variety of trip lengths to suit your preferences, including half-day, full-day, and extended offshore adventures. Half-day trips are ideal for inshore fishing closer to Massachusetts Bay, while full-day and extended trips cater to offshore enthusiasts targeting tuna and shark. Do I need a fishing license to fish on a Boston charter?No, anglers do not need to obtain their own fishing license when booking with Legit Fish Sportfishing. Captain Mark Rowell and his crew take care of all licensing requirements, allowing you to focus entirely on the excitement of your fishing adventure. What should I bring on a Boston fishing trip?Legit Fish Sportfishing provides all the necessary equipment, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Guests are encouraged to bring personal items like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, snacks, and drinks. Captain Mark also recommends comfortable clothing and a cooler to take home your catch. What is the cost of a fishing charter in Boston?The cost of a charter with Legit Fish Sportfishing varies based on the type and length of the trip. Half-day inshore trips are more budget-friendly, while full-day or offshore tuna charters are priced higher due to the extended time on the water and specialized equipment required. Contact Captain Mark for specific pricing and availability. What is the best method for catching Bluefin Tuna near Boston?Bluefin Tuna fishing requires skill and expertise, and Captain Mark Rowell is a master of techniques such as trolling, chunking, and jigging. Legit Fish Sportfishing uses state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods to increase your chances of landing this prized catch during an offshore adventure.

Boston Area Fishing Charter Pictures

Experiencing Scituate's Adventure Of A Lifetime

Deposit: A 20% deposit is required for all online bookingsBalance is due in cash or credit card on the day of the trip.

Tips: Tips are greatly appreciated for a job well done.

Guest Cancellation: &nbsp;In the event that you need to request a cancellation, you must do so&nbsp;14 days before your charter date in order to receive a refund for your deposit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Guide Cancellation: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, equipment issues or health, you will have the option to reschedule for a future date or cancel and receive your deposit back in full.