What to Know Before You Go Shark Fishing

Posted May 24, 2022 by Angler Inc

Fishing is a rewarding experience that millions of people look forward to each year. Shark fishing is one of the more exciting and challenging ways to spend a day out on the water.

Here in Maine, we’re visited in the summer and early fall by eight different species of shark, some of which can grow to 20 feet long and more than 1,000 pounds. It’s not quite the same thing as reeling in herring and cod, so it’s important to be prepared before you set out. Here are some ways to be ready for your sharking fishing adventure.

Make Sure You Have the Right Bait

Large adult sharks aren’t going to be attracted to the small amount of bait you’d use to catch smaller fish. You’re likely going to need to use whole fish such as Bluefish or Mackerel You might also consider building a chum line to lure sharks to your boat before hooking them.

Ensure You’re Properly Equipped

If you plan to catch a shark, you’re going to have to use larger equipment than you would for a regular fishing outing. This means at least a size 8000 reel and a six-foot rod, but this will depend on the size of the shark you are after.

Plan For the Catch (and Release)

You’ve lured a shark, hooked it and reeled it in, now what? It’s important to be careful – this likely isn’t an animal to be taken lightly. It’s important that everyone knows what they’re doing ahead of time so that there are no unnecessary injuries. If you are going to release the shark back into the water, plan for the safest way to do that as well.

Consider a Guided Trip

If you’re new to shark fishing, it’s not a bad idea to consider a guided trip to learn from professionals before you set off on your own. This will allow you to get hands-on experience from those in the know, ensuring you’re that much more prepared for your own trip.

If you’re considering a guided shark fishing trip here in Maine, Morning Flight Charters is the way to go. This eight-hour charter will allow you the chance to catch sharks from the four major species in Maine. Call 207-831-2426 to schedule your trip today.

3 Tips for Spring Fishing Charters

Posted February 22, 2022 by Angler Inc

Should you be considering heading out on a fishing charter this spring, you’ll want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible to have a successful time on the water.

Whether it be choosing the right dates for your trip, knowing the best time of day to fish, or getting in a few days of practice, there are several tips that you can follow that will help ensure you have a time you won’t soon forget.

Get in a few days of practice

One of the more important things you can do when readying for a spring fishing charter is getting a few days of practice in on the water. Since you haven’t fished since last fall, you may be a little rusty.

Getting practice at a nearby body of water will get you back into the swing of things and will also ensure that your pole and gear are “de-winterized” and ready to be used on your trip.

Go a few weeks into the spring

While you may be tempted to go out on the water on one of the first few weeks of spring, it is suggested to wait a bit, as the water is still pretty cold.

Take some time for the temperatures to rise to where it will be warm enough for the fish to start coming out. If you go out too early you will more than likely be spending your trip waiting around for a fish to bite.

Head out in the afternoon

As mentioned above, it is important to go out when the water is at its warmest. Waters in the spring are typically warmer in the afternoon or early evening, making it the perfect time to head out on your charter.

While the captain of your charter should undoubtedly be aware of this, it is important to make sure you are given the opportunity to fish at peak times of day.

As an added bonus, the afternoon is also the time when fish are feeding, furthering your odds of reeling in that prized catch.

If you feel you’ll be well prepared for a spring charter after reading through this blog, and would like to book a trip along the beautiful Maine coastline, we ask that you think of us at Morning Flight Charters.

Captain Stephen Richard will be happy to guide you on our 25′ Steiger craft, Bobber Down, and will make sure you have a trip you’ll remember fondly for years to come.

With over 20 years of Maine fishing charter experience and all the appropriate licenses, we are the team to choose for a fishing adventure this spring season. We invite you to call us today at 207-831-2426 to learn more or explore our site for further trip information.

3 Reasons to Choose a Professional Fishing Charter

Posted February 10, 2022 by Angler Inc

If you’re in the initial stages of planning an upcoming fishing trip and are unsure where to begin, it may be in your best interest to consider a fishing charter.

Fishing charters are a great option as all of your needs will be taken care of, from your transportation to sturdy reels and rods, a fully equipped boat with a licensed and professional captain and more.

Should you be unsure if a fishing charter is right for you and your party, we encourage you to read on to see why so many people select this convenient and thrilling option.

You’ll have an experienced guide

Whether it’s your first time going out on the water or you’ve been fishing since you were young, it’s never a bad idea to have a professional guide on hand during your trip.

When you choose a fishing charter you will be getting an experienced captain that knows the waters extremely well. This will not only be beneficial when it comes to reeling in fish, but it also means you will be safe on the water at all times.

All your needs will be taken care of

Another reason to choose a fishing charter is for all of the perks you will receive. If you are coming in for your fishing charter from a cruise, many charter captains offer free pickup service from your port drop off point.

From there you will be taken on an inshore or offshore charter based on your preferences that will allow you to catch a wide array of fish.

These charters are fully rigged to fish with outriggers and a fine selection of rods and reels that are professionally set up to handle nearly any fish species, no matter the size.

Even better, most charters are spacious and are equipped with a bathroom to make your trip a comfortable one.

It’s fun for the whole family

Should you be bringing your family along for their first charter, there are several options available with kids in mind.

Family fishing trips are typically a bit shorter so your kiddos aren’t out on the water all day, but it will still be long enough for them to gain an appreciation of the sport while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Should you feel that a fishing charter is right for you and your family and you’re considering taking it along the beautiful Maine coastline, we ask that you think of us at Morning Flight Charters.

Captain Stephen Richard will be happy to guide you on our 25′ Steiger craft, Bobber Down, and will do everything in his power to make sure that you have a memorable and successful fishing experience.

With over 20 years of Maine fishing charter experience and all the appropriate licenses, we are the team to choose for a fishing adventure you won’t soon forget. We invite you to call us at today 207-831-2426 to learn more or to book your charter.

How to Get Your Kids Interested in Fishing

Posted December 8, 2021 by Angler Inc

Relaxing yet challenging, fishing is a great hobby to have. But with many things, starting a new hobby is easiest when you’re young. You may remember how your parents took you out for your first fishing trip, but what about your own kids? How do you instill in them the same love of fishing that you have? Here are a few tips to get you started.

Keep your fishing trips short

When you take your child fishing for the first time, this is not the opportunity to go out at 4am for an all-day trip. Kids don’t like waking up early. Plus, they have shorter attention spans. It’s better to keep your first few fishing trips short, such as for an hour, for the first few times. As your child becomes older and more experienced, you can lengthen your fishing trips.

Plan other activities

Even if you keep your fishing trip short, your kids might still get bored waiting for their first catch. Instead, keep things fun by letting them enjoy other activities. They can skip rocks, play in the water, and chew on some snacks if they get tired of standing by their rod. The important thing is that you keep them entertained so that they associated fishing with fun trips with their parents rather than something long and boring.

Check the weather

No one wants to fish in bad weather, but especially not your kids. Be sure that the weather is near perfect before you head up. Check the forecast in the days leading up to your trip, and then check it again the day-of.

Morning Flight Charters offers family fishing packages that are sure to help your kids fall in love with fishing. Contact us today to learn more!

The Basics of Striper Fishing

Posted October 4, 2021 by Morning Flight Charters

Striper fishing is a fun and lively sport for fishermen of all experience levels! Maybe you’ve always wanted to try it but haven’t had the chance, or maybe you’ve never even heard of striper fishing; either way we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for some basic information about striper fishing so you’re ready to dive right in with an outing of your own!

What is a striper fish?

A striper fish—also known as stripers or rockfish—are striped bass native to the East Coast of the U.S. Typically striper fish that are caught range from five to eight pounds but have been known to exceed 70 pounds! The bigger they are, the deeper they swim. Because they do get pretty hefty, they tend to be a popular trophy fish and as a result have been planted in lakes all around the country for people to fish recreationally. For this reason, they’ve since become native to California.

Where do they live?

Striped bass migrate between fresh and salt water. They spawn in freshwater but spend most of their adult life in bodies of saltwater. They can adapt to both environments. The striper fish is luscious, savory and minerally in taste. As they increase in size, they tend to be more metallic as well.

How to catch a striper fish

Move quickly

The best way to catch striper fish is to move quickly and adjust your strategy to the conditions. These guys are speedy and unpredictable so the faster you retrieve your lure, the more likely you are to catch one. Make use of your fish finder to locate a good spot before you cast your line.

Lures and baits

If you’re using an artificial lure, try to grab something that mimics real swimming action rather than spinning out quickly. For live bait, it just depends on what’s native to your location; if you’re not sure you can always consult with local fishing shops (or book a trip with Morning Flight Charters and catch your own bait first!) Standard types of bait such as herring, menhaden, squid, sandworm, etc. will usually suffice. Be sure to store your bait in optimal conditions.

Check deep waters

When the weather is hot and sunny, stripers swim in deeper water so you might want to have a sinker on hand too—or if you’re looking for a bigger catch. Another thing to consider if you’re trying to snag a bigger bass is using live eel as your bait; it may be more appealing to the larger fish that dive deeper.

Striper fishing can be as challenging as you’d like it to be, and we can guarantee it’s always fun! Don’t miss out and book your charter today so you can put some bass on the table for dinner tonight!

How to Choose the Right Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Posted August 2, 2021 by Angler Inc

There are many ways to fish, but one of the most popular is fishing on a boat. Boat fishing offers you greater access to different locations and fish. However, it doesn’t come without its risks. A personal flotation device is essential when going out on a boat, but it will only be useful if you find the right one. Below we discuss the most common types of PFDs and which one would be right for you.

Off-Shore Life Jacket

Off-shore life jackets are, as the suggests, designed for offshore or remote waters. They’re best when you’ll be an area where rescue may take some time to reach you. As such, they’re bulkier than other PFDs, but they can turn someone unconscious face-up from the water.

Near-Shore Vest

If you don’t plan on venturing out too far from shore, then a near-shore vest will be your best bet. They are less bulky that off-shore life jackets, but keep in mind they won’t keep you floating for a long period of time. They’re designed with the expectation that rescue would be immediate.

Flotation Aid

Flotation aids should only be used in calm waters where rescue is quick. They are more form-fitting than other PFDS which is why they’re often used by wakeboarders, surfers, kayakers, or water skiers.

Throwable Device

While everyone on a boat should be wearing a life jacket or vest, you should also have a throwable device handy just in case. These are right-shaped or flat cushions that you can throw to someone who has fallen into the water.

At Morning Flight Charters, we take all necessary precautions to keep our guests safe while on their fishing trip. To learn more, contact us today!

Why Choose a Guided Fishing Trip?

Posted July 8, 2021 by Angler Inc

Inexperienced, or even moderately experienced fisherman can vastly improve their knowledge and skill by going on a guided fishing trip.

These trips allow you to get personalized, one-on-one instruction from a licensed guide that can teach you everything from where to fish to the techniques that work best, which bait and tackle to use and more.

If you have children, a guided trip can also be a bonding experience they won’t soon forget.

You’ll be fishing in the best waters

A benefit of going along with an experienced guide is that they know the best places to catch fish. Whether it be their years of fishing the area or the specialized equipment they have onboard, you’ll be in an advantageous position to reel in something special.

Many guided trips focus on deep sea fishing, which allows you to explore waters you normally don’t go into and catch fish that you’ve only dreamed about.

You’ll learn valuable fishing techniques

While it’s nice to fish in areas of high activity, you still need to know how to get the fish to bite. Your fishing guide will be able to give you a variety of tips and tricks that have been proven to reel in some of the most sought-after fish in those waters.

You’ll not only have a better chance to catch something on this trip, but you’ll also be able to use these techniques for years to come.

Bait and tackle may be provided

As mentioned above, you’re fishing guide will teach you important techniques if you’re a bit on the inexperienced side. They should also have a selection of bait and tackle that you can use.

Even if you feel like bringing your favorite fishing supplies, you may want to try out the different bait and tackle they have available to see what works best.

When you take a fishing trip with a guide, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. No matter if it’s your first or tenth time going on a guided trip, we ask that you choose our team at Morning Flight Charters. Based directly on the Maine coast in Portland, ME, we promise to provide you with a unique deep-sea fishing experience you won’t soon forget. Our licensed fishing guides bring more than 20 years of experience to each trip and will have everything you need right on board. When you want to book a trip with us, we ask that you reach out at 207-831-2426.

Deep Sea Fishing Safety Tips

Posted April 5, 2021 by Angler Inc

Deep sea fishing offers an extra bit of challenge and adventure to anglers. But it also requires added safety measures. To keep you and everyone onboard safe, be sure to follow the rules below:

Check the weather often

Offshore weather can change in a heartbeat. The skies may be clear when you set off, but things can change the further away you get from the shore. Not to mention that if you run into a storm while deep sea fishing, it’ll take longer for you to get back to safety. As such, always keep an eye on the weather while you’re out on the weather, checking the data on your marine radio, phone, or satellite.

File a float plan

Should an emergency occur, a float plan will help authorities locate you and your boat. Anyone going out on the water can file a float plan, and it should be left with a trusted family member, friend, or the marina dock master. Be sure to file a float plan every time you head out onto the water. You can follow this guide to get started.

Get your safety equipment ready

Emergencies can happen, so it’s always best to stay prepared. While a float plan can help the Coast Guard find you, you’ll need the right equipment to help you until they arrive. Here are some of the top items you should have on your boat:

Life Jacket
First Aid Kit
Fire Extinguishers
Marine VHF Radio
Cellphone
Docking and Anchoring Lines

Remember your necessities

When you’re deep sea fishing, you’ll be out on the water for a long time. Make sure you have everything you need to stay healthy and comfortable while doing so. In warm weather, wear long-sleeved, lightweight clothing as well as a pair of sunglasses to protect yourself. If it’s cold, layer up, but wear breathable fabric on top to keep moisture away from your skin. You should also have some food and water stored away in a cooler. Always plan to bring more than you think you’ll need just in case you end up out on the water longer than you intended.

Morning Flight Charters offers fun and safe deep sea fishing packages for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more, contact us today!

Eco-Friendly Fishing Tips

Posted February 1, 2021 by Angler Inc

Fishing, just like any outdoor activity, has its environmental risks. Overfishing can lead to an imbalance in the ecosystem, while some fishing gear or bait can pollute the water. We can only fish if there are healthy ecosystems to fish in. As a result, we anglers need to use eco-friendly fishing practices to keep our rivers and oceans healthy.

Use sustainable fishing gear

Before you head out onto the water, check to see what you’re bringing with you. Some fishing gear can actually pollute our waters. Plastic lures, for instance, can contribute to an already growing problem of plastic pollution in our waters. Additionally, lead fishing weights can poison fish, leading to physical and behavioral changes. The next time you stock up on fishing gear, then, look for sustainable, biodegradable alternatives.

Catch and release

There is such a thing as fishing too much. Overfishing is one of the most serious environmental problems that fishing can cause. While it is often associated with large businesses and corporations, individual anglers can have an effect as well. To avoid depopulation, use the catch and release method while you’re out on the water.

Be careful with your bait

Most types of fishing bait aren’t native to the waters you’re fishing in. As a result, they can disrupt the ecosystem, wreaking havoc on the local food chain. To keep everything in balance, use only the bait you need and then properly dispose of any leftovers.

Row your boat

Motorized fishing boats are one of the biggest sources of carbon emissions. Not only that, but their noise can also disrupt local wildlife. If possible, use a canoe or rowboat instead of a motorboat. If you do use a motorboat, install special boat propellers to increase fuel efficiency, and always be aware of local guidelines about using it in certain habitats.

Ready to go out onto the water? Then contact Morning Flight Charters today to schedule your next fishing trip.

The Best Bait for Saltwater Fishing

Posted September 18, 2020 by Angler Inc

If you want the fish to bite, you need to have the right bait. After all, fishing is about fooling the fish, making them believe that your line is just a piece of prey. As such, you need to fool them not only by sight, but by taste as well. They will use their sense of taste to determine if something is edible. As such, your bait needs to be enticing enough for them to chomp down on it.

When it comes to saltwater fishing, a variety of live and cut baits will work for your needs:

Live bait

For saltwater fishing, live bait is usually your best bet. They’re harder to manage, though, so only expert anglers should be handling live bait. Crabs, used alongside your lightest hooks, leader, and line, is the best combination for saltwater fishing. Just make sure you don’t touch the bait too much before putting in onto the hook.

Cut bait

If you’re a beginner angler or simply not comfortable with the idea of using live bait, you can always turn to cut bait. In order to trick the fish into thinking the bait is prey, you want to keep your bait fresh and firm, with the eyes clear and the gills red. To keep it this way, we suggest freezing your bait in a vacuum-packed package and then, while you’re out on the water, keeping it on ice inside of a cooler.

You have a few choices when it comes to cut bait, including:

Clams
Mussels
Shrimp
Squid

Now that you’ve got your bait, it’s time to head out onto the water. At Morning Flight Charters, we have plenty of fishing trip options for you to choose from, so don’t wait, book your trip today!