Archive for month: October, 2026

The fall Rockfish run out of Pasadena, MD is on and getting better by the day. Our first full week of Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for Rockfish aka Striped Bass brought steady catches, a phenomenal live lining bite, and solid White Perch action. Most days we fished through wind and rough conditions.

The best news is the water. Temperatures dropped 4 degrees after the big cold front moved through. That’s exactly what pushes the fall schooling pattern along and turns a good Rockfish bite into a great one.

Calm seas finally return this weekend. We’ve got a Walk-On/Mixed Group trip on Sunday, October 25 at 6:00 AM out of Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, and we need at least 3 more anglers to make it go.

Here’s the quick version:

• Opening day (Oct 16): Solid live lining and a decent White Perch bite with water at 69°F
• Water temps dropped 4°F by October 18, and the bite is heating up
• Massive piles of 4″–16″ Striped Bass found on October 20, a great sign for the Bay’s future
• Phenomenal light tackle live lining for Rockfish on October 22, plus White Perch and Spot
• Miss Susie III is still crushing Blue Catfish in Fort Washington, MD
• Sunday, Oct 25 Walk-On trip: 6:00 AM–12:00 PM, Ventnor Marina, 3 more anglers needed

Claim your seat on the Sunday, Oct 25 Walk-On trip →

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: building. The wind tested us almost every morning, but our crews still put together nice catches of Rockfish and White Perch on every trip. As the water cools, the fish are grouping up and feeding harder. Every day this week felt a little better than the one before.

Here’s the day-by-day breakdown.

October 16: Day 1 Out of Pasadena

Day 1 of fall 2026 out of Pasadena treated us pretty well. Light tackle live lining was solid. We used the time we had left on bottom fishing, and the White Perch bite was decent.

Water temps were still 69°F above the Bay Bridge, so the fall schooling pattern wasn’t close to full swing yet. We knew the big cold front coming Saturday would help. Cooler water gets the fall pattern moving and improves both the Striped Bass and White Perch bites in a big way.

October 18: Water Temps Drop 4 Degrees

We had a solid morning and a solid afternoon out of Pasadena. The morning brought challenging conditions, but the crew still filled the box.

Here’s the headline: water temps dropped 4 degrees since Friday afternoon. That’s the push we were waiting for. Things are about to get wilder and crazier.

October 20: Massive Piles of Young Striped Bass

We had an excellent morning, again despite challenging conditions. While we were searching for White Perch, our electronics lit up with several massive piles of 4″ to 16″ Striped Bass.

Those fish are too small to keep, but they’re a fantastic sign. Big schools of young Rockfish mean healthy year classes coming up through the Bay. That’s great news for the fishery and for anyone who loves fishing it.

October 21: Light Tackle Success in a North Wind

North winds were blowing hard this morning, but we still managed a nice light tackle catch. This group asked us not to take photos holding fish, and we’re always happy to respect that. The fishing was still good.

Better weather was on the way, too. Calm seas were in the forecast for the weekend, and Miss Susie IV opened up for Sunday, October 25 from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM out of Ventnor Marina.

October 22: A Phenomenal Live Lining Bite

This afternoon we had a phenomenal light tackle live lining bite for Rockfish. When the Stripers are eating like this, rods bend and drags sing all over the boat. Bottom fishing was fairly good for White Perch and Spot, which rounded out a full cooler.

Down on the Upper Tidal Potomac, Miss Susie III did some great work on the Fort Washington Blue Catfish this afternoon. The whole fleet is seeing an amazing fall bite.

October 23: Last Windy Morning for a While

This was a windy, windy, windy morning. It should be the last one for a while. We still made up a very nice light tackle catch of Rockfish and White Perch.

The marine forecast for the weekend looks amazing. That’s why Sunday’s walk-on trip is such a great opportunity.

The takeaway: Every trip produced Rockfish and White Perch, even in tough wind. Now the water is cooling and the seas are calming, so the best fishing of the fall is just getting started.

Sunday, Oct 25: Walk-On/Mixed Group Trip — 3 More Anglers Needed

You don’t need a full group to fish with us this Sunday. Our walk-on trip lets solo anglers, couples, and small groups share the boat and the catch. We need at least 3 more people to make it work, so don’t wait.

• Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
• Time: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Departs from: Ventnor Marina, 8070 Ventnor Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122
• Boat: Miss Susie IV
• Trip type: Walk-On/Mixed Group
• Forecast: Calm seas and an absolutely amazing marine forecast

Have a full group of your own? Ask about booking Miss Susie IV for the same 6:00 AM–noon window.

Choose this if: you want to get in on the cooling-water Rockfish bite without booking the whole boat.

Do this next: call Captain Greg at 1-301-873-1327 to grab your seat before the trip fills.

Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for Rockfish aka Striped Bass

Fall is prime time for Rockfish. As the water cools, Striped Bass feed hard to bulk up for winter. They push bait along channel edges, points, and structure, and we set up right on top of them.

That 4-degree temperature drop is a big deal. It moves the fish into tighter schools and gets them feeding more aggressively. Last year, late October and early November brought epic fishing for both Rockfish and White Perch. This fall is lining up the same way.

How Light Tackle Live Lining Rockfish Works

Live lining means fishing a live Spot on a light rod with little or no weight. The bait swims naturally, and Rockfish can’t resist it.

1. We find the fish. Our Humminbird Apex 13 SideScan shows Rockfish, bait, and structure off both sides of the boat.
2. We hold the boat on them. Our Minn Kota Instinct Riptide Quest trolling motor keeps us in the strike zone without spooking the school.
3. You drop the bait. Your mate hooks the Spot and coaches you through the bite.
4. The line starts peeling. Let the fish run, set the hook, and hang on.

We stay on the Rockfish until your group reaches its legal limit under current Maryland regulations. Your captain handles the rules. You handle the reeling.

Why Light Tackle Makes It Better

• Every fish fights harder on lighter rods and line
• Beginners pick it up fast with a mate right beside them
• Veterans love the sport of feeling every head shake
• The fillets are outstanding, flaky, mild, and great grilled, baked, or fried

Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for White Perch

Once the Rockfish are on ice, the day keeps going. We move to proven spots and bottom fish for fat, tasty White Perch.

Here’s the best part: White Perch have no size or creel limits. Every keeper you catch can go home with you.

As the water keeps cooling, fall Perch school up tighter on bottom structure. That means more bites and more chances to catch them two at a time on a two-hook rig. This week we also picked up some Spot on the bottom, which added a nice bonus to the cooler.

• Fast, steady bites that keep kids and first-timers busy
• Double-headers that never get old
• Sweet, mild fillets that fry up crisp and golden
• No limits, so the cooler keeps filling

If you’re torn between a “big fish” trip and an “action” trip, you don’t have to choose. The Rockfish & White Perch combo gives you both.

Why Pasadena MD Rockfish Charters Are Hot Right Now

We run by one simple motto: “We will be where the fish are!” Right now, that means the upper Bay.

Fishing out of Ventnor Marina puts us close to productive Rockfish and White Perch water. You spend less time riding and more time catching. Pasadena is also an easy drive from Annapolis, Baltimore, and the rest of Anne Arundel County.

Pasadena trips run into mid-November. After that, we follow the fish south to Harbor Island Marina in Solomons, MD through December 5.

Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter Details

Detail	Info
Season	October 15 – December 5
Current location	Ventnor Marina, Pasadena, MD
Late-season location	Harbor Island Marina, Solomons, MD
Boats	Miss Susie II and Miss Susie IV
Step 1	Light tackle live lining for Rockfish with live Spot
Step 2	Bottom fishing for White Perch, no size or creel limits

Rods, reels, tackle, and bait are all included. 

For the full breakdown, read our guide to Chesapeake Bay Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters starting Oct 15, or visit our Rockfish & White Perch Fishing page.

Blue Catfish Trips Still Rolling in Fort Washington

Miss Susie III keeps producing on the Upper Tidal Potomac out of Fort Washington, MD. It’s an amazing fall bite in calm, protected water, which makes it a great pick for families and anyone who prefers a smooth ride. Blue Catfish trips run through Thanksgiving.

Blue Catfish Carter fishing Trips 

Common Mistakes to Avoid This Fall

• Waiting too long. The cooling-water bite is just getting started, and late October and early November dates go fast.
• Underdressing. Fall mornings on the water feel much colder than on land. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
• Skimping on cooler space. With no creel limit on White Perch, you’ll want extra room.
• Passing on a walk-on trip. No full group? A walk-on seat gets you on the water without booking the whole boat.
• Not telling us your goal. Want more Rockfish time or more Perch time? Let us know, and we’ll plan the day around it.

Book Your Fall Rockfish & White Perch Trip Today

Here’s the recap:

• Rockfish season is in full swing out of Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD.
• Water temps dropped 4°F, and the bite is getting better every day.
• Light tackle live lining for Stripers comes first.
• White Perch come next, with no size or creel limits.
• Sunday, Oct 25 at 6:00 AM walk-on trip needs 3 more anglers, with calm seas in the forecast.

The fish are schooling, the weather is turning our way, and the next few weeks should be outstanding. Grab your seat for Sunday or pick your own date. We’ll put you on the Stripers first and a cooler full of White Perch second.

Reserve your Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter now →

You can also see all available dates and rates, call Captain Greg at 1-301-873-1327, or contact us online. We’ll be where the fish are. Come join us!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the fall Rockfish bite good right now in Pasadena, MD?

Yes. Every trip this week produced Rockfish and White Perch, even in windy conditions. Water temps dropped 4 degrees after a cold front, and we had a phenomenal live lining bite on October 22.

How do I join the Sunday, October 25 walk-on trip?

Call Captain Greg at 1-301-873-1327 or contact us online. The trip runs 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM from Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD, and we need at least 3 more anglers to make it go.

Why does cooler water improve Rockfish fishing?

Cooler water pushes Rockfish into tighter fall schools and triggers heavier feeding before winter. That makes the fish easier to find and more aggressive on live bait.

Is Rockfish the same as Striped Bass?

Yes. On the Chesapeake Bay, Striped Bass are commonly called Rockfish. They’re the same fish.

What is light tackle live lining for Rockfish?

Live lining means fishing a live Spot on a light rod with little or no weight. The bait swims naturally, and Rockfish strike it hard. Light tackle makes every fight more exciting.

Are there limits on White Perch?

No. White Perch have no size or creel limits, so you can keep as many as you catch on the second half of the combo trip.

How much does a Rockfish & White Perch combo charter cost?

The 6-hour morning charter is $900 for the first 6 passengers, plus $110 per additional passenger.

Where do Pasadena MD Rockfish charters depart from?

They depart from Ventnor Marina, 8070 Ventnor Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122, aboard Miss Susie II or Miss Susie IV.

Is the combo trip good for kids and beginners?

Absolutely. Our captains and mates coach every angler, and the steady White Perch bite keeps kids and first-timers busy.

It won’t be long now. In just a few days, Miss Susie II and IV head north to Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD to kick off Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for Rockfish aka Striped Bass. Once we limit on Rockfish, we switch to Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for White Perch: fat, tasty, and often caught two at a time.

Solomons isn’t going out quietly, either. This week brought a 77-fish Bluefish limit, plenty of 7–13 lb bruisers, and Blue Catfish trips so heavy our anglers could barely lift the fish board.

Here’s the quick version:

• 77 mostly large-model Bluefish (our boat limit) on October 6
• 7–13 lb Bluefish on October 4 and 5
• 60–90 Blue Catfish per trip out of Fort Washington, MD
• Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters run October 15 – November 20 out of Pasadena, MD

See full details on our Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters →

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: incredible. Every afternoon out of Solomons produced big Bluefish. Our captains learned to wait out the swarms of smaller fish and then go to work on the heavyweights. Over on the Upper Tidal Potomac, Miss Susie III kept stacking Blue Catfish morning and afternoon.

Here’s the day-by-day breakdown.

October 3: 60 to 90 Blue Catfish Per Trip

Miss Susie III kept rolling out of Fort Washington, MD. Every trip landed 60 to 90 Blue Catfish. These fish are invasive, but they’re also some of the tastiest fish you’ll ever put on the dinner table.

October 4: Deadly Accurate on 7–13 lb Bluefish

Absolutely incredible fishing this afternoon. The massive schools of 2.75–4 lb Bluefish settled down a lot. That opened the door to target the 7–13 lb Bluefish, and we hit them with deadly accuracy.

When the small fish back off, the big ones take over. That’s when the drags really start screaming.

October 5: Waiting Out the Swarm Pays Off

The 2.75–3.5 lb Bluefish were swarming when we arrived. Around 3 PM, they calmed down, and we went to work on the 7–12 lb fish.

Patience turned a good day into a very nice haul. Knowing when to wait and when to strike is a big part of fishing the fall Bay.

October 6: 77-Fish Boat Limit, Mostly Large Models

We absolutely smashed our 77-fish boat limit, and most of them were large-model Bluefish. That’s a lot of heavy pulling in one afternoon, and the crew earned their dinner.

October 7: Blue Cats AM and PM, Big Blues in Solomons

Miss Susie III got after the Blue Catfish in a big way on both the morning and afternoon trips. Back in Solomons, Miss Susie II and IV posted another absolutely incredible afternoon on the Bluefish.

October 8: They Could Barely Lift the Fish Board

Miss Susie III put the whack on the Blue Catfish again out of Fort Washington. You’ve got to love it when anglers can barely lift the fish board for the photo.

The Humminbird Apex 13 SideScan made a big difference. It showed us exactly where the fish were holding. With five more afternoons chasing Big Bluefish left in Solomons, the countdown to Rockfish season got real.

October 9: Incredible Afternoon and a Look Ahead

We wrapped the week with another incredible afternoon. Wow! Early next week, we head north to Pasadena to start light-tackle live lining for Stripers on October 15.

The takeaway: Big Bluefish are closing out the Solomons season strong, Blue Catfish are stacking up on the Potomac, and the Rockfish & White Perch run is days away.

Coming Oct 15: Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for Rockfish aka Striped Bass

This is the trip many of our regulars wait for all year. From October 15 through November 20, Miss Susie II and Miss Susie IV fish out of Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD. Every combo trip starts with Rockfish.

As the water cools, Striped Bass feed hard to bulk up for winter. Bait gathers on structure and channel edges, and the Rockfish follow. Last year, late October and early November gave us epic fishing for both Rockfish and White Perch. We fully expect the same this fall.

Light-Tackle Live Lining With Live Spot – Rockfish Charter Fishing Trips

Live lining means fishing a live spot on a light rod with little or no weight. The bait swims naturally, and Rockfish can’t resist it.

• Beginner-friendly: your mate hooks the bait and coaches you on when to set the hook
• Thrilling for veterans: light tackle makes every Striper feel like a trophy
• Great table fare: Rockfish fillets are flaky, mild, and perfect grilled, baked, or fried

We stay on the Rockfish until your group reaches its legal limit under current Maryland regulations. Your captain handles the rules, and you handle the reeling.

Then the Bonus: Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for White Perch

Once the Rockfish are on ice, the day keeps going. We move to proven spots and bottom fish for fat, tasty White Perch.

Here’s the best part: White Perch have no size or creel limits. Every keeper can go home with you.

Why Anglers Love Fall White Perch

• Two at a time: double-headers on two-hook rigs happen all day
• Fast, steady bites that keep kids and first-timers busy
• Sweet, mild fillets that fry up crisp and golden
• A heavier cooler at the end of the trip

If you’re torn between a “big fish” trip and an “action” trip, you don’t have to choose. The combo gives you both.

The Tech That Puts You on More Fish

We’ll be putting our electronics and boat control through their paces this fall. Both help you spend more time catching and less time searching.

Humminbird Apex 13 SideScan

SideScan shows fish, bait, and structure off both sides of the boat, not just underneath it. That helps your captain find Rockfish schools and White Perch piles faster. It helped Miss Susie III load the fish board this week, and it’ll do the same on the Stripers.

Minn Kota Instinct Riptide Quest Trolling Motor

Live lining works best when your bait stays right in the strike zone. Our Minn Kota trolling motor lets us hold the boat on top of the fish and adjust quietly without spooking them. That means more hookups and fewer drifts off the school.

The takeaway: Better electronics plus precise boat control means more bites for your crew.

Last Call: Big Bluefish in Solomons

As of October 8, we had five more afternoons chasing Big Bluefish out of Solomons. The big fish are feeding hard, and we’re hitting 7–13 lb Blues and boat limits.

Choose this if: you want heavy, nonstop action before the Solomons season wraps up.

Do this next: call Captain Greg right away to see if any final afternoons are still open.

Blue Catfish Trips Out of Fort Washington

Miss Susie III is landing 60 to 90 Blue Catfish per trip out of Fort Washington, MD. The trips run in calm, protected water. That makes them a great pick for families, kids, and anyone who prefers a smooth ride.

Blue Catfish are invasive, so every fish you keep helps the river. They’re also excellent eating. Trips run through Thanksgiving.

Blue Catfish Charter Fishing Trips Dates & Rates

Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter Details

Rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included, and our mates clean and fillet your catch. For the full breakdown, read our guide to Chesapeake Bay Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters starting Oct 15. You can also visit our Rockfish & White Perch Fishing page or our main Chesapeake Bay Rockfish Charters page.

Common Mistakes to Avoid This Fall

• Waiting on opening week. The first Rockfish dates after October 15 go fast, especially weekends.
• Missing the late-October peak. Last year’s best fishing came in late October and early November.
• Underdressing. Fall mornings on the water feel colder than on land, so bring layers.
• Forgetting cooler space. With no creel limit on White Perch, you’ll want extra room.
• Not naming your goal. Tell us whether you want more Rockfish time or more Perch time, and we’ll plan the day around it.

Book Your Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter Today

Here’s where the fleet stands:

• Solomons, MD: final Big Bluefish afternoons before the boats head north
• Fort Washington, MD: Blue Catfish trips with 60–90 fish per trip, through Thanksgiving
• Pasadena, MD: Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters launch October 15

Last year’s late-October and early-November bite was epic, and this fall is shaping up the same way. Gather your crew and pick your date. We’ll put you on the Stripers first and a cooler full of White Perch second.

Reserve your Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter now →

You can also see all available dates and rates, call Captain Greg at 1-301-873-1327, or contact us online. We’ll be where the fish are. Come join us!

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Rockfish & White Perch combo season start?

The combo season starts October 15 and runs through November 20. Trips depart from Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD.

Is Rockfish the same as Striped Bass?

Yes. On the Chesapeake Bay, Striped Bass are commonly called Rockfish. They’re the same fish.

How do you fish for Rockfish on the combo trip?

We use light-tackle live lining with live spot. The bait swims naturally on a light rod, and Rockfish strike it hard.

Are there limits on White Perch?

No. White Perch have no size or creel limits, so you can keep as many as you catch.

How much does the combo charter cost?

$900 for the first 6 passengers, plus $110 for each additional passenger. 

Are Blue Catfish trips still running?

Yes. Miss Susie III fishes out of Fort Washington, MD through Thanksgiving, with recent trips landing 60–90 Blue Catfish.

Is the combo trip good for kids and beginners?

Absolutely. Our captains and mates coach every angler, and the steady White Perch bite keeps kids and first-timers busy all day.