Freeport NY Fall Combo Charter Prime Reel Estate

Fall Combo Charter: Bass & Blackfish Action

This private 8-hour fall combo trip puts you right in the sweet spot of Long Island's best fishing season. Captain and crew at Prime Reel Estate Sportfishing designed this charter specifically for fall when both striped bass and blackfish are feeding hard before winter. You'll get the whole boat for your group of up to six anglers, switching between two completely different fishing styles in one action-packed day. We start early chasing bass while they're active, then pivot to blackfish once the bass bite slows down - it's smart fishing that keeps your lines wet and productive all day long.

What to Expect on the Water

Your day kicks off in the morning from Freeport, hitting the bass grounds first while conditions are prime. The fall split-trip approach means we're not wasting time when one bite dies off - we're already moving to the next hot spot. When striped bass activity drops off, which happens pretty predictably during fall, we shift gears completely and head to productive bottom structure where blackfish are holding. It's like getting two different fishing trips rolled into one day, and that variety keeps everyone engaged whether you're a seasoned angler or bringing the kids for their first real charter experience. The boat comes fully equipped with quality rods, reels, fresh bait, and all the tackle you'll need for both species. Just bring your food, drinks, and dress in layers since fall weather on Long Island Sound can change throughout the day.

Techniques & Tackle Setup

The beauty of this combo trip is experiencing two totally different fishing styles. For striped bass, we're typically working with live bait, chunk baits, or lures depending on what the fish are showing us that day. Bass fishing might have us drifting over structure, working the edges of channels, or even some light trolling if birds are working baitfish on the surface. When we switch to blackfish, it's a completely different game - we're anchored up over rocky bottom, using specialized rigs with green crabs, and teaching proper tog technique to anyone who hasn't targeted them before. The crew handles all the rigging changes, so you're never standing around waiting. We've got the right sinkers for the current, fresh bait that blackfish can't resist, and backup tackle ready to go if something gets snagged on the bottom.

Top Catches This Season

Striped bass are the crown jewel of Northeast fishing, and fall is when these fish really turn on before their southern migration. You'll find bass ranging from schoolies in the 18-28 inch range all the way up to keeper-sized fish that can push 30+ inches and weigh 10-15 pounds or more. These fish are aggressive in fall, feeding heavily on bunker, sand eels, and whatever baitfish are around. What makes bass so exciting is their fight - they'll make strong runs, shake their heads, and give you a real battle on the rod. Plus, they're excellent eating when prepared right, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or baking.

Blackfish, also called tautog, are the other star of this show and they're a completely different challenge. These bottom dwellers are notorious bait stealers with incredible jaw strength that can crush green crabs and mussels with ease. Fall blackfish typically run 2-6 pounds around Freeport waters, with occasional larger fish pushing 8+ pounds that feel like you're pulling up a underwater freight train. What anglers love about tog fishing is the technique - you need to feel the subtle pickup, set the hook quickly, and then muscle them up and away from the rocks before they wrap you up. They're also fantastic table fare, with sweet, firm meat that many consider better than flounder or fluke.

Time to Book Your Spot

Fall combo trips are customer favorites because you're getting maximum variety and value in one day on the water. Instead of gambling on just one species, you're covering your bases with two completely different types of fishing that are both at their peak during autumn months. The split-trip approach means you're always fishing productively, and the private boat setup lets your group set the pace and enjoy the day without dealing with crowded party boat conditions. Prime Reel Estate Sportfishing has this combo trip dialed in perfectly for fall conditions around Freeport, and the crew knows exactly when to make the switch to keep everyone hooked up. Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. This is top-rated fall fishing that books up fast once word gets out about the bite.