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Top Chesapeake Fishing Charters Oxford MD Exmore VA
- Published Date: June 19, 2025
- Fishing
- Chesapeake Bay
- $500 - $900 price range
Summary
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Bay Fishing Action
Chesapeake Bay Fishing: Cobia, Trout, and Stripers
Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to hit the rich waters of the Chesapeake Bay? Max Fly Charters is your ticket to an epic day of fishing in Oxford, MD, and Exmore, VA. We're talking about a full 8 hours on the water, chasing some of the Bay's most prized catches. Whether you're after the powerful run of a Cobia, the acrobatics of Striped Bass, or the finesse required for Sea Trout, we've got you covered. Grab your buddies (we recommend a crew of 4) and let's make some waves!
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're cruising out of Oxford as the sun's just peeking over the horizon, coffee in hand, and the anticipation building. Our spacious boat's got room for up to 5, but 4's the sweet spot for comfort. We'll hit some of the Bay's hottest fishing grounds, from the shallows near Tilghman Island to the deeper channels off Exmore. And don't worry about grub – we've got lunch covered. You just focus on landing that trophy fish. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, our experienced crew will make sure you're in on the action.
Techniques & Tackle Talk
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Depending on what's biting, we might be trolling for Stripers with umbrella rigs, sight-casting to Cobia, or jigging for Trout over oyster beds. We provide all the gear, from light tackle setups for finesse fishing to heavier rods for when the big boys are running. Live-lining spot for Rockfish? You bet. Chunking for Bluefish? We've got that dialed in too. And if the Reds are schooling up, get ready for some heart-pounding topwater action. Our local knowledge means we're always on top of what's working, so you can count on using the most effective techniques for the day.
Top Catches This Season
Let's talk fish, folks. The Chesapeake is teeming with some real beauties, and we're here to help you hook 'em. Here's the lowdown on what you might be reeling in:
Striped Bass (Rockfish): The undisputed king of the Bay. These silver-sided bruisers can top 40 inches and put up a fight that'll have your arms aching. Spring and fall are prime time, but summer offers great action too if you know where to look (hint: we do). There's nothing quite like the thrill of a big Striper crushing a topwater lure at dawn.
Cobia: These bad boys are like the tanks of the Chesapeake. They show up in late spring and hang around till early fall. Sight-casting to Cobia is an adrenaline rush like no other – spot that brown shadow, make the perfect cast, and hold on tight. They can easily top 50 pounds and will test your stamina and your tackle.
Sea Trout (Speckled Trout): Don't let their size fool you; these spotted dynamos are a blast on light tackle. We target them around grass beds and creek mouths, often using soft plastics or live bait. The "gator" trout (over 24 inches) are trophy catches that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.
Bluefish: When the Blues are running, it's non-stop action. These toothy critters hit hard and fight dirty. They're great fun on light tackle and make for some tasty smoked fish dip. Look for them chopping up bait on the surface – it's a sight you won't forget.
Redfish (Red Drum): While not as common as some other species, hooking into a big Red in the Chesapeake is a special treat. They love to hang around structure and put up a stubborn fight. The "puppy drum" (smaller ones) are more common and are a blast on light tackle.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Listen, I've been running charters in these waters for years, and let me tell you – there's something special about fishing the Chesapeake. Maybe it's the way the light hits the water at sunrise, or the thrill of watching your rod double over with a big fish on. Could be the camaraderie of sharing fish tales over lunch, or the peace that comes from a day spent on the water. Whatever it is, folks keep coming back for more.
Our trips are all about giving you the best shot at some stellar fishing while having a darn good time. We know these waters like the back of our hand, and we're always happy to share a few tips and tricks. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day out with friends, we've got you covered.
Time to Book Your Spot
So, what do you say? Ready to experience some of the best fishing the Chesapeake has to offer? Whether you're a local looking for a new hotspot or visiting from out of town, Max Fly Charters is your ticket to an unforgettable day on the water. We've got the knowledge, we've got the gear, and we've got the fish – all we need is you.
Don't let another season slip by without getting in on this action. Give us a call, shoot us an email, or book online. We'll get you set up with everything you need for a day of world-class fishing in one of the most beautiful spots on the East Coast. Trust me, once you've fished the Chesapeake with us, you'll be hooked for life. So come on, let's make some memories and catch some fish!
Learn more about the species
Bluefish
Bluefish are hard-fighting predators that'll test your skills and gear. These aggressive feeders typically run 3-10 pounds, though trophy fish can hit 20+. We find them prowling the Bay's open waters, especially near schools of baitfish. Bluefish are seasonal visitors, showing up in force from June through October when water temps rise. Anglers love bluefish for their savage strikes and powerful runs. They'll hit just about any lure or bait with those razor-sharp teeth. We often spot them churning up the surface in feeding frenzies called "blitzes." That's when the action gets wild. While tasty when prepared right, blues can have a stronger flavor. Smaller fish under 5 pounds tend to be milder. For the best eating, bleed and ice them immediately. One local trick: When blues are finicky, try "walking the dog" with a topwater plug. That erratic action drives them crazy. Just watch your fingers when unhooking these toothy critters!
Cobia
Cobia are real bruisers - they'll give you a fight to remember. These solitary fish can grow up to 6 feet and 100 pounds, though most we catch are in the 30-50 pound range. They look a bit like sharks with their single dorsal fin, but don't worry, they're much tastier. You'll find cobia hanging around structure like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in 30-70 feet of water. They migrate through our area from late spring through summer, following the bait. Sight fishing is the name of the game - keep your eyes peeled for their dark shapes just below the surface. Once you spot one, a well-placed bucktail jig or live eel is your best bet. Anglers love targeting cobia for their hard-hitting strikes and powerful runs. Plus, they're excellent eating with firm, white meat. Here's a local tip: if you see rays, keep watching. Cobia often follow them around looking for an easy meal. Cast ahead of the ray and you might just hook into a monster.
Redfish
Redfish are a local favorite here in the Chesapeake. These copper-colored beauties usually run 20-30 inches, with a distinctive black spot near the tail. You'll find 'em in shallow water, often less than 4 feet deep, around oyster beds and grassy flats. They're aggressive feeders, willing to hit just about any bait or lure that looks like a meal. Fall's prime time for reds, when they school up and feed heavily before winter. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting nature - they'll give your drag a workout. Plus, they're excellent eating, with a mild, sweet flavor that's hard to beat. If you're after a big one, try sight-casting with topwater lures early in the morning. Look for their tails breaking the surface as they root around for crabs and shrimp. One local trick: on cloudy days, switch to a gold spoon - it flashes just right to trigger strikes when visibility's low. Whether you're a seasoned pro or first-timer, landing a chunky redfish is always a thrill.
Sea Trout
Sea trout are a blast to chase in the Chesapeake. These silvery, torpedo-shaped fish typically run 14-24 inches and put up a great fight. You'll find them hanging around grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love to hit artificial lures - jerk baits and topwater plugs are my go-to's. Fall is prime time for sea trout fishing here. As the water cools, they school up in deeper channels. That's when the action can really heat up. Folks love targeting these fish for their sporty nature and tasty fillets. Just be careful not to overcook 'em, or you'll end up with mush. Here's a local tip: troll at idle speed along grass lines if you're having trouble finding them. And keep an eye on the water temp - these guys prefer it between 50-70°F. When conditions are right, you can limit out pretty quick. Just remember, it's all about reading the water and working those lures right. Sea trout fishing is as much art as science out here on the Bay.
Striped Bass
Striped bass are the rockstars of the Chesapeake. These powerful fish with distinctive dark stripes can grow over 40 inches long, putting up an epic fight on the line. You'll find them prowling around structure like oyster bars, channel edges, and bridge pilings. Spring and fall are prime seasons as stripers migrate through the Bay. Anglers love targeting them for their challenging nature and excellent eating quality - mild, flaky meat that's great on the grill. To boost your chances, try live-lining spot or menhaden near drop-offs during moving tides. When the bite is on, stripers will absolutely crush topwater lures at dawn and dusk. There's nothing quite like watching a big striper blow up on your plug as the sun rises over the water. Whether you're after trophy fish or just want consistent action, striped bass deliver an exciting day on the Chesapeake.
Vehicle
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 28
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300
