If you’re a deep-sea angler, there are some fantastic spots off the U.S. coast just waiting to be explored. Here are a few that stand out.
The smell of saltwater in the air, an ocean breeze, and the sudden tug on the line letting you know you’re about to catch a big fish. What could possibly be better? Maybe throw the thrill of an open ocean boat into the mix to spice things up a bit.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
North Carolina’s Outer Banks are world famous for the amount of great fishing available. The Gulf Stream waters coming from the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico supply a uniquely heavy array of fish including Bluefin tuna, marlin, king mackerel, red drum, wahoo, and more. Though you can visit the area just about any time of the year and find some great angling spots, the best time to visit’s April through June, or later in the season between September and November.
Florida Keys, Florida
Arguably one of the most beautiful places off the U.S. coast, the Florida Keys are hugely popular for those seeking a charter boat out for a little deep sea fishing. In fact, it can get a little crowded out there during the summer months when everyone is on vacation. The weather stays warm year-round, though, so you can choose anytime you’d like to test it out. The region is teeming with swordfish, marlin, bonefish, tarpon and tuna coming up from the Gulf Stream.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
The popular upscale vacation town of Cape Cod is also a wonderful place to kick back out on the boat. Offshore you’ll find plenty of game for anglers from striped bass to mackerel. If you’re lucky you might even bag yourself a shark. The region is composed of roughly 65 miles of coastline so you’ll find plenty of places far offshore to enjoy the breeze in peace and quiet and, hopefully, pull in a few Bluefin for dinner.
Galveston, Texas
Beautiful year-round weather makes Galveston a favorite among fishermen. There’s plenty of deep sea action in the Gulf of Mexico, which is full of red snapper, king mackerel, wahoo and record-breaking sailfish. The Gulf also contains a few massive shark species for those into catch-and-release. If you want to stay a little closer to shore, Galveston Bay has some great options too in the form of speckled trout, redfish and tarpon.
San Diego, California
The southern coast of California is a hotspot for fishermen thanks to a Mediterranean-like climate that never really ends. Down in San Diego you’ll find the warmest temps, creating offshore waters chock full of big fish. The region is most famous for its giant tuna and with numerous charter boats heading out each day you can set sail in the dead of winter and still bring home some great catches.
Montauk, New York
Montauk is nicknamed the Fishing Capital of the World thanks primarily to the massive schools of migrating fish that travel from Long Island Sound up through Maine, passing by Montauk in droves. Though the striped bass are the real draw inland, there’s also plenty to do far offshore from June through August. Roughly 60 miles out, the canyons are home to a treasure trove of giant tuna along with other deep sea creatures, including sharks.
