Ready to cast a line in some of Nova Scotia's most productive waters? Our 4-hour private fishing trip in St. Margaret's Bay is the perfect way to experience the thrill of deep sea fishing without venturing too far from shore. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, our expert guides will make sure you have a reel good time out on the water. We'll cruise past Halifax's iconic harbor, drop lines over hidden reefs, and chase schools of fish using time-tested local techniques. With room for up to 8 guests, it's an ideal outing for families, friends, or your next team building day.
As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel the salt spray and excitement in the air. Our captains know these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll waste no time getting to the hotspots. We provide all the gear you'll need - sturdy rods, fresh bait, and even fish finders to locate the schools below. Don't worry if you're new to this; we'll show you the ropes and have you jigging like a pro in no time. Keep your eyes peeled for seals, porpoises, and even the occasional whale as we navigate the bay. And hey, if the fish aren't biting, the views of the Nova Scotia coastline are worth the trip alone.
On this trip, we use a mix of fishing methods to maximize your chances of landing the big one. We'll start with some good old bottom fishing, dropping weighted lines to entice cod and other bottom-dwellers. If we spot schools near the surface, we might switch to trolling - dragging lures behind the boat as we cruise along. For the more adventurous, we can try jigging, which involves rapidly moving your rod tip up and down to make your lure dance enticingly. Our gear is top-notch and well-maintained, so you can focus on the fun part - reeling 'em in. And don't sweat it if you're a beginner; our guides are patient teachers and will have you feeling like a salty sea dog in no time.
Atlantic Mackerel are the speed demons of St. Margaret's Bay. These streamlined fish travel in large schools and put up a scrappy fight when hooked. They're most active in the warmer months, typically from May to October. Mackerel are known for their distinctive blue-green tiger stripes and their delicious, oily flesh that's perfect for grilling or smoking. When a school is feeding near the surface, it's not uncommon to catch one on nearly every cast - talk about action-packed fishing!
Atlantic Cod are the classic catch of Nova Scotia waters. These bottom-dwelling fish can grow to impressive sizes, with some monsters topping 100 pounds (though most you'll catch are in the 5-20 pound range). Cod fishing is best in the cooler months, from late fall through early spring. They're not the fastest fighters, but their weight makes for an exciting battle as you work to bring them up from the depths. There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of hauling up a big cod and knowing you'll be enjoying some of the freshest fish and chips of your life.
Atlantic Salmon, often called the "king of fish," are the prize catch for many anglers visiting Nova Scotia. These powerful fish spend years at sea before returning to their natal rivers to spawn, growing to impressive sizes in the process. The best time to target salmon is during their spring and fall runs, typically May-June and September-October. Landing an Atlantic Salmon is a true test of an angler's skill - they're known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs that can strip line from your reel in seconds. It's catch-and-release for wild Atlantic Salmon, but the memories of battling one will last a lifetime.
Folks who've fished with us before can't stop talking about the experience. They rave about the knowledgeable captains, the quality of the fishing spots, and the thrill of hauling in their catch. Many say it's the highlight of their Nova Scotia trip, combining the excitement of fishing with breathtaking coastal scenery. Families love how patient our guides are with kids, often turning first-timers into fishing enthusiasts. And let's not forget the bragging rights - there's nothing like showing off photos of your big catch to friends back home.
So, what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and the bay is calling. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer, cross "deep sea fishing" off your bucket list, or just enjoy a day on the water with friends and family, our Halifax Harbour Fishing trip has got you covered. With a private charter, you'll have the full attention of our experienced guides and the flexibility to fish at your own pace. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't miss the boat - book your 4-hour adventure today and get ready to make some waves (and maybe catch dinner while you're at it)!
Atlantic Cod are the classic bottomfish of Nova Scotia waters. These hefty predators average 2-4 feet long and prefer cool, rocky areas near the seafloor. We find them year-round, but fishing's best in spring and fall when they're most active. Cod are known for their white, flaky meat - it's what fish and chips are all about. They're not the fastest swimmers, but they put up a stubborn fight, especially the bigger ones. You'll feel that distinctive cod headshake when one takes your bait. We usually fish for cod in 100-300 feet of water, using heavy jigs or natural baits like squid or fish chunks. A good tip is to keep your bait moving - a slow lift and drop of the rod often entices bites. Cod numbers aren't what they used to be, but conservation efforts are helping. We practice catch-and-release for the big breeders. Landing a nice cod is always satisfying, and there's nothing like fresh cod for dinner after a day on the water.
Atlantic Mackerel are a real treat to catch in St. Margaret's Bay. These sleek, speedy fish typically run about a foot long and love to school up, which can make for some exciting action. You'll find them near the surface in warmer months, often chasing bait fish. They're known for their distinctive blue-green backs with wavy stripes. Mackerel put up a great fight on light tackle, darting and zipping around. They're also delicious eating fish, packed with healthy omega-3s. We usually target them from spring through fall when they come closer to shore. To catch mackerel, try using small shiny lures that mimic their prey. A fast retrieve often triggers strikes. Keep an eye out for birds working the water - that's a good sign mackerel are feeding below. Just remember, these guys attract bigger predators too, so stay alert if you're in a small boat. Mackerel fishing is a blast for all skill levels. The non-stop action and tasty rewards make them a favorite for many of our guests. It's a great way to introduce kids to fishing too.
Atlantic Salmon are the crown jewels of our rivers here in Nova Scotia. These powerful fish average 8-12 pounds but can get much bigger. They're born in freshwater, migrate to the sea, then return to spawn - an incredible journey. Salmon fishing is all about timing and patience. We target them mainly in spring and fall as they move in and out of rivers. They're known for spectacular leaps and powerful runs that'll test any angler's skills. You'll find salmon in deep pools and fast-moving sections of river. They can be picky eaters, so matching your fly or lure to local conditions is key. A good trick is to use darker flies on overcast days and brighter ones when it's sunny. Catching a wild Atlantic Salmon is a bucket-list experience for many anglers. It's as much about the challenge and beautiful surroundings as it is the fish itself. Remember, these fish are carefully managed - we practice catch-and-release to help maintain the population.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 10
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 70
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 200