Bluefish

Bluefish are the ultimate charter action fish. When a school of blues moves through, every rod on the boat bends, and the deck turns into controlled chaos. These fish are relentless predators with razor-sharp teeth, explosive strikes, and a mean streak that makes every hookup exciting.

Charters find bluefish by watching for surface activity, bird flocks, and bait schools on the fish finder. When blues are feeding on the surface, the water literally boils with activity. Most boats use diamond jigs, metal lures, or cut bait rigs, and the bite is aggressive. Bluefish do not nibble. They slam the bait and immediately start running. Wire leaders or heavy fluorocarbon are essential because their teeth will slice through standard monofilament in seconds.

The fight is fast and furious. Blues are powerful swimmers that make blistering runs and shake their heads violently trying to throw the hook. A 10 to 15 pound bluefish on light tackle is a serious handful. Even smaller "snappers" in the 1 to 3 pound range provide great sport, especially for young anglers on their first charter trip.

Bluefish have a strong, distinctive flavor that some anglers love and others find too fishy. The key is bleeding the fish immediately and keeping them on ice. Fresh bluefish that has been properly handled is excellent smoked, grilled, or baked with bold seasonings. Many charter regulars consider a fall bluefish blitz the most exciting fishing of the year.