Archive for category: Fishing Reports

A six-day Nor’easter tried to shut us down. It didn’t work. Once the gale-force winds finally laid down, the Bay came back to life with big Bluefish, bunker everywhere, and Blue Catfish stacking up on the Potomac. Now the countdown is on to the next big run: Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for Rockfish aka Striped Bass & Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing for White Perch, starting October 15 out of Pasadena, MD.

This report covers the week of September 28 to October 2, 2026, day by day. You’ll see what’s biting in Solomons and Fort Washington right now, which open dates are left, and how to grab a seat on our fall Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters before the prime dates are gone.

Here’s the quick version:

• 59–98 Blue Catfish every charter, morning and afternoon, since Miss Susie III returned to Fort Washington on Sept 24
• Big Bluefish are back after the storm, with 70% in the 6–12 lb range on Sept 29
• 77 Bluefish (our boat limit) on Oct 1, with about 25% at 8–12 lbs
• Big Red Drum spotted blowing up bunker, and water temps still holding at 73°F
• Blue Catfish dates open Oct 7 & 8 at 6:30am or 12:30pm
• Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters kick off Oct 15 out of Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: explosive. The Nor’easter cost us six days on the Chesapeake. When we got back out, though, the fish were hungry and the bait was thick. Miss Susie III never missed a beat on the protected waters of the Upper Tidal Potomac, either.

Here’s the day-by-day breakdown.

September 28: Blue Catfish Producing Every Single Trip

Conditions have been tough, but you’d never know it from the catch counts. Since our fall return to Fort Washington, MD on Thursday, September 24, Miss Susie III with Capt. Kyle Mills and First Mate Chris Paul has produced 59 to 98 Blue Catfish on every single charter, AM and PM.

That’s not one lucky day. That’s consistency, trip after trip, while the open Bay was blowing a gale.

September 29: Back on the Bay After the Nor’easter, and WOW

After six brutal days of gale-force winds from the Nor’easter, we finally got back on the Chesapeake midday. The fishing was phenomenal. Big Bluefish ate everything we threw at them, and about 70% ran in the 6–12 lb range.

Even better, loads of bunker have moved into the areas we’ve been fishing. With good water clarity returning, everything is lining up. The next two weeks out of Solomons aboard Miss Susie II and IV are shaping up to be EPIC.

September 30: Spectacular Afternoon Out of Solomons

Absolutely spectacular fishing this afternoon out of Solomons, MD. Rods bent, drags screamed, and the coolers filled fast.

Here’s the catch: we’ve got only two more weeks chasing Big Bluefish and Red Drum in Solomons before the boats head north. If you’ve been waiting, the clock is ticking.

 

October 1: 77-Fish Boat Limit and Big Reds on the Bunker

We hit our boat limit of 77 Bluefish today, with about 25% of them in the 8–12 lb class. That’s a lot of heavy pulling.

We also saw a few smaller packs of Big Red Drum blowing water on bunker. They popped up only briefly, and we couldn’t get to them in time, but they’re out there and they’re feeding. With water temps still sitting at 73°F, the next two weeks are going to be wild and crazy out of Solomons.

Over on the Potomac, Miss Susie III kept rolling out of Tantallon Marina in Fort Washington, MD, landing 60 to 100+ Blue Catfish on every 6-hour trip.

October 2: Bluefish Schools Take Over, Blue Cats Still Chewing

We saw fewer of the 8 lb-plus Bluefish today. That happens when massive schools of 2.75 to 4.5 lb Blues take over an area. Those fish are still a blast on the rod and make for a fast, busy afternoon.

Meanwhile, Miss Susie III went to work on the invasive, tasty Blue Catfish this afternoon. It was incredible light-tackle fishing in calm, protected water, and the catch makes great table fare.

The takeaway: Bluefish limits in Solomons, triple-digit Blue Catfish trips on the Potomac, and the Rockfish & White Perch run is less than two weeks away.

Last Call: Big Bluefish and Red Drum in Solomons

The Solomons season runs through October 12, and the fish are fired up for the finish. Bunker are thick, the water is still warm, and the big Blues are feeding hard.

Choose this if: you want heavy, nonstop action and a real shot at a Big Red before the season closes.

Do this next: call now for one of the final Solomons dates aboard Miss Susie II or IV.

Blue Catfish Trips: Oct 7 & 8 Now Available

The Fort Washington bite is ON. Miss Susie III is producing 60 to 100+ Blue Catfish per 6-hour trip in calm, protected water. It’s an easy pick for families, kids, and anyone who gets queasy on open water.

Next week’s open dates:

• Wednesday, October 7: 6:30 AM or 12:30 PM
• Thursday, October 8: 6:30 AM or 12:30 PM
• Departs from: Tantallon Marina, Fort Washington, MD

Blue Catfish are invasive, so every fish you keep helps the river. They’re also some of the best-eating fish around. Get them while they’re biting and the weather is amazing.

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

This is the trip so many of our regulars wait for all year. Starting October 15, Miss Susie II and IV move north to Ventnor Marina in Pasadena, MD to launch our fall Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters.

Last fall was spectacular, and we’re expecting much of the same. As the water cools, Rockfish feed hard to bulk up for winter. Bait gathers on structure and channel edges, and the Stripers follow.

How We Fish for Rockfish

We start every combo trip with light-tackle live lining for Rockfish. Live lining means fishing a live baitfish on a light rod with little or no weight. The bait swims naturally, and Striped Bass smash it.

• Easy for beginners: your mate hooks the bait and coaches you through the bite
• Exciting for veterans: light tackle turns an average Striper into a real fight
• Great table fare: Rockfish fillets are flaky, mild, and perfect grilled, baked, or fried

We stay on the Rockfish until your group hits 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 switch to bottom fishing for fat, tasty White Perch, and here’s the best part: White Perch have no size or creel limits.

That means every keeper can go home with you. Fall White Perch school up tight on bottom structure, so double-headers are common and the bites come fast. Kids love the nonstop action, and fish-fry fans love the full cooler.

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

Book Your Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter Today

Here’s where the fleet stands right now:

• Solomons, MD: Big Bluefish and Red Drum through October 12. Final dates are going fast.
• Fort Washington, MD: Blue Catfish trips through Thanksgiving, with Oct 7 & 8 open at 6:30am or 12:30pm.
• Pasadena, MD: Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charters launch October 15.

Rockfish season is less than two weeks out, and the best dates won’t last. Gather your crew, pick your date, and let us put you on the Stripers first and a cooler full of White Perch second.

Reserve your Rockfish & White Perch Combo Charter now

The week of September 18–25, 2026 brought fast action on two fronts. Large-model Bluefish and Big Red Drum kept the rods bent out of Solomons Island, MD, while our Blue Catfishing trips returned to the Upper Maryland Tidal Potomac with a bang. It was a week that showed just how much the fall bite has to offer.

This report walks you through each day on the water, breaks down how every species is running right now, and shows you what’s ahead as the fleet spreads out for fall. Let’s get into it.

Here’s the quick version:

• 68 Bluefish on September 18, with 30-plus in the 8–12 lb class, then Big Reds late
• Large-model Bluefish and Big Reds on September 20
• 80 Bluefish total on September 21
• 79 Blue Catfish on our first trip back to the Potomac September 24
• Rockfish Charters kicking off October 15 out of Pasadena, MD

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: loaded. Our captains put anglers on fish nearly every trip during Solomons Island charter fishing trips out of Harbor Island Marina, and the Blue Catfish crew opened their season on the Potomac in style. Here’s the day-by-day breakdown.

September 18 — 68 Bluefish, Then Big Red Chaos

What an afternoon. We boxed 68 Bluefish, and more than 30 of them were the thick 8–12 lb class that pull like freight trains. Every rod stayed busy.

Then we hit the Big Reds late in the trip, and it was pure chaos — the good kind. That’s the sort of finish that keeps anglers talking all the way back to the dock.

September 20 — Large Models and More Big Reds

We blasted the large-model Bluefish through the afternoon and into the evening. When they’re chewing like that, the action barely lets up.

Miss Susie IV added to the fun by getting into the Big Reds as well. Two heavy-hitting species in one trip is exactly what fall on the Bay is all about.

September 21 — 80 Blues on the Dot

We started with 47 medium and small Bluefish close to home, then ran a little further out for 33 larger models. That’s 80 Blues on the dot — an extremely active afternoon with rods bending the whole time.

Having fish both near and far gives us options no matter the conditions, and it kept everyone on the boat busy.

September 24 — Blue Catfish Are Back: 79 on the Potomac

Our first trip back on the Upper Maryland Tidal Potomac River did not disappoint. We landed 79 Blue Catfish, and they went straight onto our clients’ family dinner tables.

Blue Catfish are hard-pulling, great-eating fish, and a blast for anglers of every age. If opening day is any sign, this run is going to be a good one.

The takeaway: Every trip this week produced fish, with large-model Bluefish and Big Red Drum leading the charge in Solomons and Blue Catfish firing right back up on the Potomac.

Chesapeake Bay Red Drum Fishing Charters

If you want raw pulling power, big Red Drum deliver. These bruisers put a deep bend in the rod and test every muscle on the way to the boat, and this week they brought the drama.

We hit the Big Reds late on September 18 for a chaotic finish, and Miss Susie IV got into them again on September 20. With the boats staying in Solomons through October 12, there’s still a strong window to land a trophy. Chesapeake Bay Red Drum fishing charters are all about that bucket-list battle, and right now the timing is excellent.

Choose this if: you want a true trophy fight with a hard-pulling game fish.

Do this next: tell your captain up front you want to target Big Reds, and we’ll rig for it.

Chesapeake Bay Bluefish Charters

Bluefish stole the show all week. These toothy brawlers strike with fury and never quit, and we saw the whole range — from medium fryers to thick 8–12 lb models. We boxed 68 on September 18 and a clean 80 on September 21.

When they team up with Red Drum, every rod in the spread stays bent. Bluefish charters on the Chesapeake Bay are also perfect for first-timers and families, with aggressive bites and rarely a slow moment.

Choose this if: you want nonstop rod-bending action for the whole group.

Do this next: book an afternoon trip while the large models are chewing.

Blue Catfish Trips Are Back on the Potomac

Great news for fans of a bent rod and a full cooler: Blue Catfish trips have returned. Our first trip back landed 79 Blue Catfish on the Upper Maryland Tidal Potomac River, and every one of them headed home for dinner.

Blue Catfish are one of the most rewarding fisheries around — steady action, strong fights, and some of the best eating fish on the water. Miss Susie III runs these trips out of Ft. Washington, MD from September 24 through Thanksgiving.

Choose this if: you want dependable action and a box of great table fare, perfect for families and groups.

Do this next: book a Blue Catfishing trip out of Ft. Washington before the calendar fills up.

Rockfish Charters Kicking Off October 15

The fall Rockfish season is almost here, and we can’t wait. Starting October 15, Miss Susie II and IV launch fall Rockfish fishing trips out of Pasadena, MD — light-tackle live lining for Rockfish, followed by bottom fishing for jumbo White Perch through November 20.

Last fall was spectacular, and we’re expecting much of the same. Light-tackle Rockfish charters are a favorite for good reason: it’s exciting, hands-on, and produces some of the best eating on the Bay.

Choose this if: you want a classic fall Chesapeake experience with light tackle and hard bites.

Do this next: lock in your Rockfish Charter date now, before the prime October and November spots are gone.

Where the Fleet Is Headed This Fall

The fun is far from over — it’s just moving around. Here’s where each boat is fishing:

• Miss Susie III — Blue Catfishing trips out of Ft. Washington, MD, from September 24 through Thanksgiving.
• Miss Susie II and IV — chasing large-model Bluefish and Red Drum in Solomons, MD through October 12.
• Miss Susie II and IV — starting October 15, fall fishing trips out of Pasadena, MD: light-tackle live lining for Rockfish, then bottom fishing for jumbo White Perch through November 20.

Whatever you’re after this fall, we’ve got a trip and a boat ready to put you on the fish.

What to Avoid When Booking a Fall Trip

A few simple missteps can cost you the trip you want. Here’s what to watch for.

• Waiting too long. The best dates fill fast across all three fisheries once fall hits.
• Not naming your target. If you want Big Reds, Blue Cats, or Rockfish, tell us up front so we plan the day around it.
• Missing the Solomons window. The Bluefish and Red Drum run only holds through October 12 before the boats shift north.
• Overlooking the Blue Cat bite. It’s some of the most reliable, family-friendly action of the whole fall.

Book Your Fall Charter Today

The fall bite is running hot on every front — Big Reds and large-model Bluefish in Solomons, Blue Catfish back on the Potomac, and Rockfish just around the corner. Dates are moving fast as word gets out.

Grab your crew, pick your fishery, and let our expert captains put you right on the fish. Contact Miss Susie Charters today to lock in your Red Drum, Blue Catfish, or Rockfish trip before the prime fall dates are gone. We’ll be where the fish are — come join us!

The week of September 5–11, 2026 gave us fast action and heavy coolers out of Solomons Island, MD. Big Bluefish chewed nearly every afternoon, Spanish Mackerel showed up in serious numbers, and Red Drum kept us hunting. We even landed a 92-Mackerel day that had the whole boat grinning.

This report walks you through each day on the water, breaks down how every species is running right now, and shows you how to grab a seat on this Sunday’s walk-on trip. Let’s get into it.

Here’s the quick version:

• 92 Spanish Mackerel on a single 12-hour trip September 9
• 50 Big Bluefish landed in one afternoon September 6
• 2 Big Reds early in the week, with more on the hunt list
• Spanish Mackerel schooling up strong out of Solomons
• Walk-on seats open Sunday, Sept 13, noon–8pm aboard Miss Susie IV

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: fantastic. Our captains put anglers on multiple species almost every trip during charter fishing trips on the Chesapeake Bay out of Harbor Island Marina. A couple of mornings started slow, but the crew adjusted fast and turned quiet water into full boxes of fish.

Here’s the day-by-day breakdown.

September 5 — Quick Bluefish Limit and an Early Finish

The afternoon crew got into the nice Bluefish in a hurry. The limit came so fast that I gave the group a choice: stick with the original 8-hour plan and go hunt Red Drum and Cobia, or head in early with a box full of fish.

They chose the early finish. That left plenty of time to enjoy a beautiful evening and a tasty dinner on Solomons Island — a great way to cap a quick, productive trip.

September 6 — Slow Morning, Explosive Afternoon

The morning bite ran slow, but we still boxed 2 Big Reds, 14 Big Bluefish, and 1 large Spanish Mackerel. Not a bad haul when the fish play hard to find.

Then the afternoon turned electric. The Big Bluefish showed up hungry, and we landed 50 of them while losing another 30-plus of those violent, toothy brawlers. When they’re on like that, every rod stays bent.

September 8 — Epic Bluefish and a Big Red That Got Away

The afternoon brought an epic large Bluefish bite, plus a heartbreaker — we lost a very large Red Drum right near the boat. That’s fishing, and it keeps you coming back.

The morning was strong too. We stumbled on a nice school of Spanish Mackerel on their way out of the Chesapeake Bay. With roughly 5.5 more weeks of afternoon trips ahead for Big Blues, Big Reds, and maybe a Cobia, the timing right now is excellent.

September 9 — 92 Spanish Mackerel and 56 Big Bluefish

What a day. Mike and the boys joined us for a 12-hour trip, and we put together 92 Spanish Mackerel and 56 large-model Bluefish.

That’s the kind of nonstop action anglers dream about. The fishing out of Solomons over the next five weeks should be incredibly good if this is any sign.

September 10 — Fast Blues, Then Macs

We left the dock at noon and had 35 Big Bluefish on ice by 3pm. The group wanted to try for the Big Reds, so we went searching.

While hunting the Reds, we stumbled onto some nice Spanish Mackerel and went to work — landing 18 Macs and another 25 or so frying-size Bluefish. Even when the target fish stay hidden, there’s always another bite to chase.

September 11 — 45 Big Blues and 5 Spanish

We closed the week with 45 Big Bluefish and 5 Spanish Mackerel in the afternoon. A solid finish to a week loaded with action.

The takeaway: Every trip this week produced fish, with Big Bluefish and Spanish Mackerel leading the charge and Red Drum adding real trophy potential.

Chesapeake Bay Spanish Mackerel Fishing

Spanish Mackerel stole the show more than once this week. We found a fresh school on September 8, then boxed 92 in a single 12-hour trip on September 9. These fast, sleek fish hit hard, run fast, and make outstanding table fare.

When the Macs are this thick, the action stays quick from the first pass to the last. That makes for a perfect trip for anglers of all skill levels — the bites come often, and the fights are a blast. You can learn more on our Spanish Mackerel fishing page.

Choose this if: you want fast, steady action and a cooler full of great eating fish. Spanish Mackerel trips are ideal for families, first-timers, and mixed groups.

Do this next: book a trip while the schools are running strong out of Solomons.

Chesapeake Bay Red Drum Fishing Charters

If you want raw pulling power, big Red Drum deliver. These bruisers put a deep bend in the rod and test every muscle on the way to the boat.

We boated 2 Big Reds early in the week and hooked a very large one on September 8 that pulled off near the boat. The Reds are around, showing on the electronics, and staying high on our hunt list. Our Chesapeake Bay Red Drum fishing charters page has more on targeting these fish.

Choose this if: you want a true bucket-list battle with a trophy game fish.

Do this next: tell your captain up front that you want to target Big Reds, and we’ll rig accordingly.

Cobia Fishing on the Chesapeake Bay

Cobia are one of the most powerful game fish in the Bay, and they stay on our list whenever groups want a shot. With 5.5 more weeks of afternoon trips ahead, there’s still a real chance at one before the season winds down.

Even a short Cobia pulls like a freight train, and every trip carries the chance at a big keeper. When anglers want a focused shot, we skip the smaller fish and run straight to the grounds. See our Cobia fishing page for details.

Choose this if: you want a strong, dedicated shot at one of the Bay’s hardest-fighting fish.

Do this next: book a targeted trip and let us focus the day on Cobia and Red Drum.

Chesapeake Bay Bluefish Charters

Bluefish brought the attitude all week long. These toothy brawlers strike with fury and never quit, and the numbers tell the story — a fast limit on September 5, 50 landed on September 6, 56 on September 9, and 45 more on September 11.

When they team up with Spanish Mackerel and Red Drum, every rod in the spread stays busy. Bluefish are also perfect for first-timers and families, with aggressive bites and rarely a slow moment. Check out our Bluefish charter page to plan your day.

Choose this if: you want nonstop rod-bending action for the whole group.

Do this next: pair a Bluefish trip with the Mackerel bite for a fast, full-cooler day.

Why Fish Solomons Island Charter Fishing Trips?

Solomons Island sits at the heart of some of the best fishing water on the Chesapeake Bay. Where the Patuxent River meets the Bay, bait piles up and predators follow close behind. That means fast access to prime grounds and less time riding.

Miss Susie Charters launches from Harbor Island Marina in Solomons Island, MD. From the docks, our captains reach productive Bay structure and channel edges in a short run — more time fishing, less time traveling. Plan your trip on our Solomons Island fishing charters page.

The takeaway: Harbor Island Marina puts you minutes from the hottest late-summer action on the Bay.

More Than 5 Weeks of Great Fishing Ahead

The best news? This bite is far from over. We’ve got roughly 5.5 more weeks of afternoon trips coming for Big Bluefish, Big Red Drum, and maybe a Cobia, with Spanish Mackerel still schooling strong.

Based on this week’s action, the fishing out of Solomons over the next five weeks should be incredibly good. Now is the time to lock in your late-season date while every species is running hot.

Book This Sunday, Sept 13 — Miss Susie IV Walk-On Trip

Great news for this weekend: we’re opening up Miss Susie IV with Capt. Kyle for a walk-on/mixed group trip. And the marine weather forecast does not get any better than this.

Here are the details:

• Date: Sunday, September 13
• Time: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Boat: Miss Susie IV with Capt. Kyle
• Type: Walk-on / mixed group
• Departs from: Solomons, MD

Walk-on trips are perfect for solo anglers, couples, and small groups who want to fish without booking the whole boat. You’ll share the experience and head home with your part of the catch.

Grab your crew, pick your trip, and let our expert captains put you right on the fish. Contact Miss Susie Charters today to claim your seat on the Sunday, September 13 trip before it fills. We’ll be where the fish are — come join us!

The week of August 22–27, 2026 gave us some of the most exciting Chesapeake Bay charter fishing of the whole season. We ran hard out of Solomons Island, MD, and the fish rewarded us every single day. Spanish Mackerel poured in like it was 2023, Bull Red Drum lit up the electronics, and the Bluefish kept every rod bent.

By the end of this report, you’ll know exactly what’s biting, how each species is running right now, and how to grab one of the last open seats on our Sunday, August 30 walk-on trip. Let’s get into it.

Here’s the quick version:

• 100 Spanish Mackerel on our August 24 walk-on trip
• 9 Bull Reds on spinning gear after trolling over a giant school August 26
• 54 Bluefish on the afternoon of August 22
• 5 short Cobia targeted and landed on August 25
• All four trophy species active on Solomons Island charter fishing trips

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: unforgettable. Our captains put anglers on multiple species nearly every trip out of Harbor Island Marina in Solomons Island, MD. We battled some sea grass and shifting winds, but the crew adjusted fast and kept the coolers filling.

Here’s the day-by-day breakdown.

August 22 — 54 Bluefish and Steady Mackerel

The afternoon trip was a barnburner. We landed 54 Bluefish and 38 Spanish Mackerel, with the rods barely getting a rest between hookups.

The morning tested us a bit. East winds pushed in floating sea grass and fouled our spread, but we still managed 54 Spanish Mackerel and 3 Bluefish. When conditions turn, you adapt — and that’s exactly what we did.

August 23 — A Targeted Cobia and Red Drum Trip

This group wanted Red Drum and Cobia, not a boatload of Bluefish. So after two hours on the Spanish Macs, we rigged up and ran to the grounds.

We landed 3 Cobia just under the 43-inch minimum, plus 2 Reds over the upper slot. Two other really nice Drum pulled the hook right at the boat, and one other large game fish — a big Cobia or Red — smoked a bait, stripped a ton of line, and pulled off after an exhilarating strike. Another trip also produced 48 Spanish Mackerel and a few blues.

August 24 — 100 Spanish Mackerel on a Walk-On Trip

Crazy morning out of Solomons! Our 6-hour walk-on/mixed group trip put 100 Spanish Mackerel and 11 Bluefish in the boat.

The Macs are here in numbers we simply have not seen since 2023. That’s the kind of day where every angler — first-timer or veteran — heads home with a full cooler and a big grin.

August 25 — Cobia, Red Drum, and Big Bluefish Only

Another group had zero interest in Spanish Mackerel or smaller blues. They wanted Cobia, Red Drum, and the larger Bluefish, so we skipped the Macs and ran straight to the grounds.

Five minutes in, we trolled over chewing 8–10 lb Bluefish. We landed 5 short Cobia, 44 big Bluefish, and 2 stray Spanish that liked oversized baits. We marked the Big Reds once on the screen, but all six lines were already loaded with heavy Bluefish swimming every direction.

August 26 — 9 Bull Reds on Spinning Gear

This was the story of the week. We started our noon trip trolling for Spanish Mackerel with a decent pluck going, then I trolled over a massive school of Red Drum in 57 feet of water.

The school stood nearly 50 feet tall on the 2D and stretched all the way out to 180 feet on both sides of the Humminbird Apex 13 side scan. All six Spanish Mackerel rigs hooked up at once — badly under-matched for Bull Reds. I pulled the boat out of gear, killed the engine, and yelled for my first mate Owen to cast a jigging rod off the port stern corner. He hooked up instantly.

The Mackerel rigs got shredded, but we regrouped on spinning gear and landed 9 Big Reds across four stops. When the jigging fleet crowded in, we peeled off and stacked 46 big Bluefish. An awesome afternoon on the Chesapeake Bay.

August 27 — Quick Macs, Then Big Blues

We landed 12 Macs fairly quick, then smacked the larger Bluefish before the sea state deteriorated too badly. A short window, but we made it count.

The takeaway: Every trip this week produced multiple species, with Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish leading the charge and Red Drum and Cobia adding real trophy potential.

Chesapeake Bay Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters 

Spanish Mackerel are the stars of the late-summer show, and this week proved it. We went 54, then 100, with strong numbers nearly every trip. These fast, sleek fish hit hard, run fast, and make outstanding table fare.

When the Macs are this thick, the action stays quick from the first pass to the last. That makes for a perfect trip for anglers of all skill levels — the bites come often, and the fights are a blast.

Choose this if: you want fast, steady action and a cooler full of great eating fish. Spanish Mackerel fishing charters are ideal for families, first-timers, and mixed groups.

Do this next: book a morning trip while the Mackerel are running like they did in 2023.

Chesapeake Bay Red Drum Fishing Charters 

If you want raw pulling power, big Red Drum deliver. These bruisers put a serious bend in the rod and test every muscle on the way to the boat.

The August 26 trip showed just how special the Red Drum bite can get. A school nearly 50 feet tall filled the screen in 57 feet of water, and we adjusted on the fly — killing the engine and switching to spinning and jigging gear to land 9 Bull Reds. That’s the kind of story anglers talk about for years.

You can learn more about targeting these fish on our Cobia, Red Drum & Spanish Mackerel fishing page.

Choose this if: you want a true bucket-list battle with a trophy game fish. Chesapeake Bay Red Drum fishing charters are all about the fight.

Do this next: tell your captain up front that you want to target Bull Reds, and we’ll rig accordingly.

Cobia Fishing on the Chesapeake Bay

Cobia are one of the most powerful game fish in the Bay, and they’ve been in the mix all week. We landed 3 short Cobia on August 23 and 5 more on August 25, all just under the 43-inch harvest minimum.

Even the shorts pull like freight trains, and every trip carries the chance at a big keeper. When anglers want a focused shot at Cobia, we skip the Macs and run straight to the grounds — exactly what we did twice this week.

Choose this if: you want a strong, dedicated shot at one of the Bay’s hardest-fighting fish. Cobia fishing on the Chesapeake Bay is a true test of strength.

Do this next: book a targeted trip and let us focus the day on Cobia and Red Drum.

Chesapeake Bay Bluefish Charters 

Bluefish bring the attitude. These toothy brawlers strike with fury and never quit, and this week we saw the whole range — from tasty fryers up to mean 8–10 pounders. We stacked 54 on August 22, 44 on August 25, and 46 on August 26.

When they team up with Spanish Mackerel and Red Drum, every rod in the spread stays busy. Bluefish are also perfect for first-timers and families — aggressive bites, fun fights, and rarely a slow moment.

Choose this if: you want nonstop rod-bending action for the whole group.

Do this next: pair a Bluefish trip with the Mackerel bite for a fast, full-cooler day.

Why Fish Solomons Island Charter Fishing Trips?

Solomons Island sits at the heart of some of the best fishing water on the Chesapeake Bay. Where the Patuxent River meets the Bay, bait piles up and predators follow close behind. That means fast access to prime grounds and less time riding.

Miss Susie Charters launches from Harbor Island Marina in Solomons Island, MD. From the docks, our captains reach productive Bay structure and channel edges in a short run — more time fishing, less time traveling. You can plan your trip on our Solomons Island fishing charters page.

The takeaway: Harbor Island Marina puts you minutes from the hottest late-summer action on the Bay.

What to Avoid When Booking a Late-Summer Trip

A few simple mistakes can cost you the trip you want. Here’s what to watch for.

• Waiting too long. The best weekend dates vanish fast during a run this strong.
• Not naming your target. If you want Bull Reds or Cobia, tell us up front so we rig and run accordingly.
• Skipping the morning bite. The Spanish Mackerel action has been hottest early, before the sea state builds.
• Overlooking walk-on trips. Solo anglers and small groups don’t need to book a whole boat to get in on the action.

Why Should You Book Now?

The best dates go fast, and this season is running hot. With Spanish Mackerel here in 2023-like numbers, Bull Reds lighting up the electronics, Cobia in the mix, and giant Bluefish chewing, demand is climbing quickly.

Booking early gives your group first pick of dates while every species is running strong. Once word gets out about a week like this one, prime weekend spots disappear.

Book Your Solomons Island Charter Today — Aug 30 Seats Open

Our Sunday, August 30 walk-on/mixed group trip needs 3 more anglers. Here are the details:

• Date: Sunday, August 30
• Time: 6:00 AM to Noon
• Type: Walk-on / mixed group
• Departs from: Solomons Island, MD

Walk-on trips are perfect for solo anglers, couples, and small groups who want to fish without booking the whole boat. You’ll share the experience and head home with your part of the catch.

Grab your crew, pick your trip, and let our expert captains put you right on the fish. Contact Miss Susie Charters today to claim one of the last three August 30 seats and lock in your late-summer date before it’s gone. We’ll be where the fish are — come join us!

The late-summer bite out of Solomons Island, MD has been everything we hoped for and then some. From August 8 through August 13, our boats saw drag-screaming Red Drum, giant Bluefish, and Spanish Mackerel in serious numbers. Toss in a morning that produced over 200 Norfolk Spot, and you have one of the best weeks of the season so far.

This report walks you through the highlights day by day, shows you which trophy species are biting right now, and tells you how to lock in your spot before the calendar fills. Let’s get into it.

How Was Fishing This Past Week?

In one word: incredible. Our captains put anglers on multiple species every single trip out of Harbor Island Marina in Solomons Island, MD. The Red Drum were huge, the Bluefish were mean, and the Spanish Mackerel showed up hungry.

Here’s the day-by-day rundown.

August 8 & 9 — Big Red Drum and Big Bluefish

What an afternoon! We hit the big Red Drum and big Bluefish, and at one point the whole spread lit up at once. We had 6 trolling rods down with fish, stopped the boat, and hooked up another giant Red Drum on a spinning rod while the crew was still fighting the rest. Chaos in the best way. This is exactly why we do what we do.

That same morning, we also landed over 200 nice-size Norfolk Spot out of Solomons. Fast action, full coolers, and grins all around.

August 9 — Beautiful Sunrise and Hungry Spanish Mackerel

The sunrise alone was worth the early wake-up call. The Lord blessed us with loads of hungry Spanish Mackerel and some Bluefish mixed in. When the Mackerel bite runs this thick, the rods barely get a rest between hookups.

August 10–13 — Mackerel, Giant Bluefish, and a Few Cobia

The strong run kept rolling. These four days produced loads of Spanish Mackerel, giant Bluefish, and even a few Cobia in the mix. That’s a stacked lineup for any late-summer trip on the Bay.

The takeaway: Every trip this week produced multiple species, with Red Drum, Bluefish, and Spanish Mackerel all biting hard.

Chesapeake Bay Spanish Mackerel Fishing Charters

Spanish Mackerel are the stars of the late-summer show, and this year they have arrived in force. These fast, sleek fish hit hard, run fast, and make outstanding table fare.

When the Mackerel are thick like they have been this past week, the action stays fast from the first pass to the last. It’s perfect for anglers of all skill levels — the bites are frequent, and the fights are a blast.

The takeaway: The Spanish Mackerel bite is running strong out of Solomons Island, and now is the time to get in on it.

Chesapeake Bay Red Drum Fishing Charters

If you want raw pulling power, big Red Drum deliver. These bruisers put a serious bend in the rod and test every bit of your strength on the way to the boat.

The August 8 and 9 trips proved just how good the Red Drum action can get. Six trolling rods down at once, plus a giant hooked on a spinning rod — that’s the kind of memory anglers talk about for years. Landing a big Red is a true bucket-list catch on the Chesapeake Bay.

The takeaway: Big Red Drum are active right now, and the trolling bite has been on fire.

Chesapeake Bay Bluefish Charters

Bluefish bring the attitude. These toothy brawlers strike with fury and never quit, and the giants we’ve been landing this week put on a real show. When they team up with Spanish Mackerel and Red Drum, every rod in the spread stays busy.

Bluefish are also a great fish for first-timers and families. The bites are aggressive, the fights are fun, and the action rarely slows down.

The takeaway: Giant Bluefish are chewing alongside the Mackerel and Drum, making for nonstop rod-bending fun.

Why Fish Solomons Island Charter Fishing Trips?

Solomons Island sits at the heart of some of the best fishing water on the Chesapeake Bay. Where the Patuxent River meets the Bay, bait piles up and predators follow close behind. That means fast access to prime grounds and less time riding.

Miss Susie Charters launches from Harbor Island Marina in Solomons Island, MD. From the docks, our captains reach productive Bay structure and channel edges in a short run — more time fishing, less time traveling. Plan your trip and explore all the details on our Solomons Island fishing charters page, and check out our full list of Chesapeake Bay charter fishing trips and rates.

The takeaway: Harbor Island Marina puts you minutes from the hottest late-summer action on the Bay.

Which Species Can You Target Right Now?

This is the time of year when Solomons Island is truly loaded. On a single trip, you have a shot at all four of our top late-summer targets:

• Spanish Mackerel — fast, aggressive, and great eating
• Bluefish — fierce strikes and hard fights, including this week’s giants
• Cobia — one of the most powerful game fish in the Bay
• Red Drum — raw pulling power that tests any angler

Want to learn more about these trips and target species? Check out our Cobia, Red Drum & Spanish Mackerel fishing page, explore our dedicated Chesapeake Bay Rockfish charters page, or browse all available charter fishing trips and rates.

The takeaway: One trip, four trophy species — the late-summer lineup out of Solomons is stacked.

Why Should You Book Now?

The best dates go fast, and this season is shaping up to be special. With Spanish Mackerel here in numbers, giant Bluefish chewing, Red Drum bending rods, and Cobia in the mix, demand is climbing quickly.

Booking early gives your group first pick of dates while every species is running hot. Once word gets out about a week like this one, prime weekend spots disappear.

Here’s your quick checklist before you call:

• Pick your date while the bite is peaking
• Grab your crew or ask about a walk-on trip
• Lock it in before the calendar fills

The takeaway: A season this strong won’t stay quiet for long. Reserve your date now.

Book Your Chesapeake Bay Charter Fishing Today

The Red Drum are huge, the Bluefish are giant, and the Spanish Mackerel are here in force. There’s never been a better time to fish out of Solomons Island, MD, with all four trophy species reporting for duty.

Grab your crew, pick your trip, and let our expert captains put you right on the fish. Contact Miss Susie Charters today to check availability and lock in your spot, or browse all charter trips and rates before these prime late-summer dates are gone. We’ll be where the fish are — come join us!