Inshore Fishing in Ocean City, Maryland — What to Know Before You Book

What Is Inshore Fishing?

Inshore fishing—locally known as bay fishing or back bay fishing—means you’re fishing in the protected waters behind the barrier islands rather than heading out into the open ocean. Here in Ocean City, that includes the bays behind Ocean City and Assateague Island.

These trips typically run 2 to 4 hours, though some captains may offer longer outings. You’ll have multiple start times to choose from throughout the day, which makes it easy to fit a fishing trip into your vacation schedule. On occasion, depending on weather, tides, and conditions, your captain may venture just outside the inlet for a short stretch—but for the most part, you’re staying in calm, sheltered water.

That’s what makes inshore charters so popular with families and first-time anglers. There’s no long boat ride, the water is typically smooth, and kids don’t get worn out before the fish start biting. But don’t let that fool you—the fishing can be outstanding. It is part of what makes Maryland fishing great. 

Bay Fishing vs. Nearshore — What’s the Difference?

This is another question Capt. Tony hears all the time, and it’s worth understanding the difference so you book the right trip for your group.

Bay fishing keeps you in protected, calmer water close to shore. The trips are shorter, the boat rides are minimal, and it’s perfect for families, kids, first-timers, or anyone who prefers a gentler day on the water. You’ll still catch plenty of fish with flounder, bluefish, croaker, spot and striped bass being your main targets. There is always the possibility of a big sting ray or skate gabbing your bait. If so, hold on, these fights can last for sometime….

Nearshore fishing takes you out into the open ocean. You will fish areas between 1 and 10 miles off the beach. Land is always in sight and the rides can take up to 35 minutes each way. You will be fishing natural and artificial reef sites. Both bottom fishing and trolling trips are available. Flounder, sea bass and triggerfish are the main targets while bottom fishing. Bluefish and mackerel (both Spanish & King) while trolling.

Extra time can be added to either of these if the schedule allows.

If you’re not sure which is right for you, check out our planning guide. The honest answer is that most people visiting Ocean City will have an amazing time on a bay fishing trip. It’s accessible, it’s fun, and the fishing is legitimately good.

What Fish Will You Catch?

The species you’ll target on an Ocean City bay fishing charter depends on the time of year, but here’s what you can expect throughout the season:

Inshore fishing action usually kicks off in mid-April when the water starts warming up. Flounder, striped bass, and big bluefish are typically the first to show. After a long winter, they’re hungry and the back bays are full of baitfish. As the water continues to warm through spring and into summer, other species move in—trout, croaker, red drum, black drum, sheepshead, tautog, spot, and small sea bass all become possibilities.

The peak fishing window runs from mid- May through late October. Every season can be a little different depending on what type of winter we have here on the coast. Water temps control when the season will begin and when it will end. Some years it can start in April and end in December.

How We Fish the Back Bays

Fishing techniques in the back bays vary depending on the species, the season, and the conditions on any given day. Some days we’re drifting along channel edges, working the flats, or fishing the deep holes where fish like to stack up. Other days, we’re anchored around bridge pilings, docks, or jetties where the structure holds fish.

When conditions are right, casting artificial lures is a blast—though that style tends to favor anglers with a bit more experience. We also use live bait and dead bait depending on what we’re targeting and what’s producing. Before each trip, Capt. Tony discusses the game plan with you so you know exactly what to expect and what techniques we’ll be using that day. It’s part of how Capt. Tony approaches every charter— he wants you to understand what we’re doing and why, not just hold a rod and hope for the best.

Private Charter vs. Head Boat — Which Should You Choose?

Before you book, there’s an important decision to make: do you want a private charter or a spot on a head boat? Both are solid options, but they’re very different experiences.

Private Charter Boats

On a private charter, it’s just your group. The captain tailors the entire trip around your skill level, your interests, and what’s biting that day. The private boats in the back bay typically carry no more than 6 passengers—that’s what’s known as a “six pack” license, meaning the captain can take up to 6 guests and 2 crew members. Some captains choose to carry only 4 passengers even though their license allows 6. This is usually about comfort—giving each angler more room to fish without bumping elbows.

On a private boat, all your gear, bait, ice, and fishing licenses are included. The equipment is usually higher quality, and most captains provide cold water as well. You also get the captain’s full attention, which is a big deal if you want to learn or if you’re fishing with kids who need some extra help.

Here in Ocean City, there are roughly 20 to 25 licensed boats offering back bay fishing trips. On average, a private charter runs about $140 per hour. A 2-hour trip will typically fall between $275 and $350 for the entire boat.

Head Boats (Party Boats)

The other option is a head boat—sometimes called a party boat. These are larger vessels that carry anywhere from 18 to 44 passengers per trip. You buy an individual ticket and fish alongside other groups. Ocean City has about 5 head boats that fish the back bays.

Ticket prices range from $30 to $50 per person, which makes this the more budget-friendly option. Rod rentals are typically around $5 per person, or you’re welcome to bring your own gear. Most head boat trips run about 3 hours, though at least one offers a 2-hour option. Your license, bait, and ice are included on board.

Head boats are a great way to get on the water if you’re on a budget or if you’re a solo angler looking for a trip without booking a full boat. The tradeoff is that you won’t get the personalized attention or the flexibility of a private charter.

What’s Typically Included on an Inshore Charter?

Regardless of which type of boat you choose, there are some things that are standard across most Ocean City bay fishing charters. Your fishing license, bait, and ice are included. On private boats, all fishing gear is provided as well, and it’s usually high-quality equipment. Most private captains also provide cold water.

You’ll want to bring any snacks, meals, or special drinks you’d like. Alcohol is generally allowed in moderation on most boats—cans or plastic containers only, no glass bottles. It’s always a good idea to confirm the specifics with your captain when you book.