Featured Black Sea Bass Guides
Expert captains ready to take you on your next Black Sea Bass adventure.
Tide Hustle
Greenport, New York
Tide Hustle is an open boat and private charter fishing boat in Greenport, NY. Tide Hustle fishes for porgies, weakfish, striped bass, blackfish and other local fish. You can buy a single ticket or book the whole boat!
Leona May Fishing
Keyport, New Jersey
Leona May Fishing Charters on the New Jersey coast offers in-shore & off-shore saltwater fishing for striped bass, sea bass, fluke, tuna & off shore exotics. Captain Scott has over 20 years of fishing experience on the New Jersey & East Coast. Equipped with the most up-to-date technology & INTEL platform.
Marlintini Sportfishing
Colchester, Connecticut
The best in connecticut charter fishing. Exceptional striped bass, bluefish, blackfish, fluke, and more from long island sound, as well as tuna and shark offshore.
Havoc Charters
Havoc Charters is a Charter Boat in Hampton, Virginia offering private Inshore & Near/Offshore Fishing Charters and private Cruises for up to 21 people. USCG inspected boat for small or large groups serving the Chesapeake bay area. Targeting Cobia, Red Drum, Black Drum, and Sea bass, Tilefish, etc.
Plan a Black Sea Bass Fishing Trip
Find the best times and places to catch Black Sea Bass, and get matched with experienced guides.
Best Time to Catch Black Sea Bass
Peak months for Black Sea Bass fishing across the US.
Best Places to Catch Black Sea Bass
Top 6 cities ranked by guide availability and species data quality.
States Where Black Sea Bass Are Found
Top Locations for Black Sea Bass
Seasonal Activity Chart
Black Sea Bass
The Black Sea Bass (Centropristis striata) is a highly sought-after saltwater fish prized by anglers for its delicious, firm white flesh and spirited fight. Found along the Atlantic coast of the United States, from Maine down to Florida, these bottom-dwelling fish are commonly associated with rocky reefs, wrecks, and other underwater structures. Their accessibility and relatively predictable behavior make them a favorite target for both novice and experienced fishermen.
To effectively target Black Sea Bass, bottom fishing is the most common and productive technique. Use a sturdy conventional rod and reel combo spooled with braided line in the 30-50 lb test range. A typical bottom rig consists of a bank sinker heavy enough to hold bottom in the current, a leader of 20-30 lb fluorocarbon, and a size 2/0 to 5/0 J-hook or circle hook. Popular baits include squid, clams, crabs, and cut fish. Jigging with metal or soft plastic jigs can also be very effective, especially when the fish are actively feeding. Live bait, such as small porgies or spot, is irresistible to larger Black Sea Bass. When jigging, vary your retrieve to find what the fish want, and don't be afraid to add a teaser or bucktail above your jig.
Black Sea Bass fishing is generally best during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. As water temperatures rise, the fish become more active and move into shallower waters. The peak season is typically from June to October. During this time, they can be found in depths ranging from 20 to 150 feet. Look for areas with structure, such as reefs, wrecks, and rocky outcroppings. The bite is often best during slack tide or periods of reduced current.
If you're new to Black Sea Bass fishing, start by targeting areas with known structure. Consult local tackle shops or online fishing forums for information on productive spots. Pay attention to your depth finder and look for signs of fish or structure on the bottom. When you hook a fish, be prepared for a strong initial run. Keep a tight line and avoid sudden jerks, which can cause the hook to pull out. A landing net is helpful for bringing larger fish aboard. Remember to check local regulations regarding size and bag limits before you head out.