Best Times & Seasons to Fish in Boston (A Complete Guide)

Boston is one of the most historic cities in the country but it also offers tremendous access to good fishing. There are certain windows of the year when the fishing in Boston is superior and well worth your time.

The best times to go fishing in the waters of Boston are during the summer down to the beginning of autumn. Fishing from June through October will offer access to sharks, striped bass, tuna, and other species.

Fish SpeciesBest Times to Fish in the Boston-Area
Summer FlounderLate July through the end of September is the best time.
Winter FlounderMay through July is the best season for winter flounder.
GroundfishJune through September is the best season for groundfish in Boston.
HaddockLate spring through early fall is the best time for haddock.
Striped BassMay through November are the best times. September & October offer the best schooling action.

Fishing in Boston is highly promising, interesting, and fascinating. If you are a fishing enthusiast, this can be one of the places to spend your fishing days. Enjoy a successful fishing activity in Boston.

girl holding a nice striped bass
(Image courtesy of Boston Fish Tales Charter (Boston) & Fishing Booker)

Best Times to Fish Boston

Fishing in Boston if you choose the perfect time to fish. To be successful at fishing in a particular location, you need to know the best time to fish, including fishing in Boston. Knowing the right time to fish will give you a higher chance of catching more fish.

The best time to fish in Boston is during summer. You can also extend your fishing season down into the beginning of autumn. The months of June to October can provide you with one of the best fishing times and fish species in Boston.

There are varieties of fish species you will find in the waters of Boston. These species range from large species like sharks, yellowfin tuna, and lots more to the smaller ones like the spot fish, forage fish, etc. With the right factors put into consideration, you can assure yourself of a successful fishing endeavor.

There are also other reasons you can go fishing in Boston, but summer and the beginning of autumn assure the most success. You can visit Boston now and experience a memorable fishing adventure.

Boston Species Breakdown: Best Time

Boston houses varieties of fish species which is why many anglers make it their favorite spot for fishing. Many anglers set out to fish the waters of Boston to make their catch. Some do this for subsistence purposes, while others do it commercially.

You can also make a good catch of different species of fish in these waters. Here are some of the fish species you can get in Boston. For a complete breakdown of the best time and season to fish Nantucket, please check out this helpful article.

I recommend this Penn Pursuit Spinning Rod & Reel combo (available on Amazon) for inshore and nearshore fishing. It can handle everything from redfish to snapper and king mackerel. The Penn Battalion Series Spinning Rod and the Penn Battle Spinning Reel are fantastic to create your combo.

Summer Flounder

The summer flounder is a marine flatfish you can find in Boston. It is very abundant in the waters of Boston and serves several purposes to anglers. It is a large fish that can grow up to 3 feet for females and 2 feet for males.

The best time to fish the summer flounder is during late summer to early autumn. You can set out to catch this fish from August to September. Most successful summer flounder fishing is recorded during summer.

The best times to go fishing for summer flounders are early in the morning and late in the evening. These times provide more fish to catch, and that increases your chance of success. Food is the greatest predictor of success when fishing summer flounder, which is why you should get your bait tasty and juicy.

One of the best places to fish summer flounders is south of Boston harbor. You can also check out the south end of Nantasket Beach to enjoy the easy and productive fishing activity.

For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch flounder, please check out this helpful article. For a complete breakdown of the best water temperatures to catch flounder, please check out this helpful article.

Winter Flounder

Winter flounders are the closely related family of the summer flounder. The winter flounder, also known as the ‘black back,’ is a right-eyed flatfish. It has its small head, eyes, and mouth located on the right side of its body.

The best times to fish the winter flounder are during May, June, and July. Summer brings so many goodies with it, and that includes successful fishing conditions for the winter flounder. It is quite surprising that the winter flounder does not take its name.

Winter flounders are not necessarily an early morning fish, so you do not need to set out before dawn to make your catch. The best time to target them is when the water is warming up at the bright time of the day. They also tend to take the bait best when the water current is moving.

There are several fishing spots for winter flounders in Boston. Some of the best places for fishing winter flounders in Boston include Georges island, Deer Island Flat, Hospital Shoals, etc. There are also several other fishing spots where you can catch winter flounder in Boston.

Striped Bass

The striped bass also called the striper, is an abundantly found fish in the waters of Boston. It is characterized by the continuous horizontal stripes that run from their head to their tail. They also come in silvery to olive green color.

One of the best times to fish the striped bass is from May to November. This falls from the summer season to the end of autumn. You can get your best shot at catching striped bass during these times of the year.

You also have to know the best time of the day to go fishing for striped bass in the waters of Boston. To get the best fishing success, you should set out to fish at dawn or dusk. These are the best times to go fishing for striped bass in Boston.

One of the best places to fish the striped bass in Boston is the North Shore Hot Spots. You can also set out to fish in the Boston harbor, Deer island, and several other places. Spend your fishing time well in Boston.

For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch striped bass, please check out this helpful article. For a complete breakdown of the best water temperatures to catch striped bass, please check out this helpful article. For a complete breakdown of the best times to catch bluefish, please check out this helpful article.

Haddock

Haddock is one of the fish species you will find in Boston. It is a ray-finned saltwater fish with special characteristics. It is part of the cod family that provides anglers with firm flesh, mild flavor, and moist texture.

Some seasons favor the fishing of haddock in Boston, while some do not. One of the seasons that favor the catching of haddock is the summer. Haddock is also available year-round in different fishing spots. You can also catch a large number of haddocks during the fall and late spring.

There are different times of the day when you can catch haddock. One of the best times to fish for haddock is early in the morning. You tend to catch a lot of them as they love to take a morning swim.

Boston has lots of fishing spots that houses tons of haddocks. Visiting these spots can assure you of a large catch on your fishing endeavor. Fishing spots to visit Boston include Cape Cod bay, Tillies Bank, Stellwagen Bank, Middle Bank Boston, and many more.

Groundfish

Included in the list of fish you will find in the waters of Boston is the groundfish. The groundfish, also known as the demersal fish, lives and feeds in Boston near the bottom of water bodies. It offers tasty meat to both anglers, residents, and visitors of Boston.

The groundfish is also one of the few fish you can find any time of the year. But they are most abundant during the summer. You can go fishing for them from June to September. 

There are certain times of the day when you can go fishing for a particular species of fish. For groundfish, the best time to fish for them is in the morning. You can be sure to make a great catch during this time of the day.

Boston has several fishing spots and one of the best fishing groundfish in the Boston harbor. At the Boston harbor, you will be able to experience easy and successful fishing activities. You can fulfill your fishing adventures by visiting this fishing spot.

Recommended Fishing Charters in Boston

These Boston-based charters have earned great reviews from anglers and will offer you a tremendous service. The captains are knowledgeable, friendly, and are sure to put you on fish. By clicking the links below, you will be taken to the charter’s respective profile on Fishing Booker where you can read reviews, learn more about the charter, view photos, and book online at the best rate.

Recommended Fishing ChartersType of Fishing Offered
Midnight Charters Sport FishingInshore & Offshore
Fishbucket SportfishingInshore & Offshore
Lyla Rose Fishing ChartersInshore & Offshore
Keepin It Reel ChartersInshore & Offshore
Boston Fish TalesInshore & Offshore
Lucky 7 ChartersInshore & Offshore
Anglerfish GuidesInshore & Offshore
Cuz ChartersInshore & Offshore
Anglerfish GuidesInshore & Offshore

Best Time of the Day to Fish Boston

The waters of Boston contain varieties of fish species, which are factors that attract numerous anglers. Going to Boston to fish requires more than your gears and fishing skills. You need to know the best time of the day to fish in Boston.

The best time of the day to fish in Boston is early in the morning. This is the time most fish feed, play, and swim about. You only need to be good with your fishing skills and make your bait very attractive to make a great catch.

Boston Fishing & Tidal Impacts

The tide is a great factor when fishing in Boston. The best time to catch some fish is during low tides, while some bring more success during the high tides. Boston generally houses large fish that love the tides.

So, this makes low tides a bit unfavorable for anglers. The best time to fish in Boston is during the mid-tides. This tide movement aids the greatest catch for anglers.

big striped bass
(Image courtesy of Lucky 7 Charters (Boston) & Fishing Booker)

Storms & Boston Fishing

Storms are also one of the deciding factors of fishing in Boston. Fishing after a storm is always good for offshore fishing but a bit unfavorable for normal fishing. This is because fishes get tired and stressed out after storms, so they become unresponsive to baits and take a rest.

Is Winter Fishing Bad or Good in Boston?

Winter fishing is good in Boston as it provides tons of fun for anglers. The cold times are a good time to go fish hunting. You can make numerous catches during the winter in Boston.

Night Fishing in Boston

Fishing in Boston at night can be a lot more fun than you imagine. You can perform deep-sea fishing at night in Boston and make a good catch. Night fishing in Boston is not usually affected by seasons as you can make a good catch any night you set out for your fishing activities.

If you do not go night fishing in Boston, you might be missing a lot. You can add to your fishing experience by setting out to make some of your greatest catches.

Shore/Surf Fishing: Best Times & Seasons

Surf fishing in Boston can provide you with one of the best fishing experiences in Boston. Surf fishing also provides you with great success when fishing. Several anglers perform surf fishing, and they make great catches. Enjoy and explore every one of your fishing fantasies in Boston.

Top 5 Fishing Spots in Boston: Best Times

There are several fishing spots in Boston. Here are some of the best spots:

  • Castle Island: The castle island is located in the south of Boston. It is a good choice of fishing spot for most anglers as it houses several fish species. You can visit this place to make a great catch.
  • Boston Harbor: Boston harbor is also a good fishing spot for anglers. You can catch varieties of fish species here. Enjoy your fishing adventures at this location.
  • Middle Bank Boston: This is one of the most popular fishing sites in Boston. It houses varieties of fish species that suit the search of every angler. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or professional angler, the Middle Bank Boston suits your activities.
  • Stellwagen Bank: Like every other fishing spot, the Stellwagen bank provides anglers with varieties of resources, conditions, and fish. It also includes beautiful scenery and views of landscapes.
  • Deer Island: Deer island is also one of the most common fishing spots in Boston. It also includes different species of fish ranging from large to small ones. You can choose to enjoy your fishing activities here.

Booking Charters in Boston

One of the factors that comprise the classic fishing experience in Boston is the charter service. The charter service provides convenience and comfortability with transportation through the terrains of Boston. You can enhance your fishing experience by booking a charter in Boston.

Best Season to Go

Booking a charter in Boston is one of the best ways to transport yourself during your fishing adventures. Visiting several fishing spots, checking out landscapes, and other adventure activities cannot be enjoyed without ideal transportation. Booking these charters will spice up your fishing trip.

The best season to book a charter in Boston is during summer. You can also book a charter at the beginning of the autumn season. Booking charters from June to October will provide you with the best trip experience you can get.

Booking charters in Boston during the summer or early autumn provides you with the perfect touring weather. Although touring might be expensive during summer, the season houses the best condition for touring and fishing. It is also the time most tourists visit Boston, providing you the avenue to meet new people.

The summer season is also the busiest in Boston. Many people tend to visit the place during summer as there are many attractions and things to amuse the eye. It also has a warm and pleasant temperature that soothes both citizens and visitors.

Morning vs. Afternoon

There are different times of the day you can book a charter in Boston, depending on the purpose of the trip. However, one of the best times you can book a charter in Boston is in the morning. The morning provides you with one of the best views of Boston.

Booking a charter for the morning also provides you with a cool atmospheric condition. You also get to escape the warmth of the day and enjoy every bit of your adventure.

Booking a charter in the afternoon is, however, not bad. You can also harness the beauty and landscape of Boston by booking a charter in the afternoon. The afternoon is always busy, so you get to see a lot of things.

You will get to enjoy your trip regardless of the time you choose to book your charter. But the best time to book the charter is in the morning as it will aid your fishing activities also.

Half-Day

Half-day charter is one of the most common types of charter you will get in Boston. This charter service only includes 4 to 5 hours of service. You get to visit places you want to visit, including fishing spots, tourist centers, etc., within the speculated time range.

The half-day charter service is also the cheapest type of charter service you can get, but it has its setbacks. The service does not give you access to all-day trips. You also get to miss out on events that happen when you are not on your charter.

Full-Day

The full-day charter service provides transportation services for more hours than the half-day charter. It provides about 8 to 10 hours of chartering service. It is more expensive than the half-day charter, but it sure provides more benefits and experience.

Multi-Day Service

The multi-day service provides the most convenience, experience, and benefits. It offers days of services without any interruption, but it is more expensive than another type of charter service. Enjoy your fishing days in Boston with the best charter service.

For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish near Portsmouth, please check out this helpful article I wrote. For a complete breakdown of the best times to fish near Long Island, please check out this helpful article I wrote.

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