Peter Clarke

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Mad Hatter Fishing Charters, your premier choice for New Jersey fishing charters. Situated in the picturesque Neptune City, our fishing trips in New Jersey offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the abundant marine life these waters have to offer while indulging in the excitement of sportfishing. Under the seasoned guidance of Captain Peter, a true master of the seas with years of experience under his belt, you'll have the chance to target a diverse array of prized species that call these waters home. From the iconic Striped Bass and Black Seabass to the elusive Tautog and White Marlin, Albacore Tuna, Bigeye Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, our specialized fishing techniques cater to anglers of all skill levels, ensuring an exhilarating and fruitful excursion every time you cast your line. Join us aboard our spacious 40’ BHM Downeast vessel, meticulously equipped with top-of-the-line amenities to enhance your fishing experience. With outriggers, downriggers, and a comfortable fighting chair at your disposal, you can relax and enjoy the thrill of the chase in style. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for your next big challenge or a novice enthusiast eager to learn the ropes, our fishing trips in New Jersey are perfect for the whole family to enjoy. At Mad Hatter Fishing Charters, we understand that every angler's needs are unique. That's why we go above and beyond to ensure your comfort and satisfaction throughout the journey. From providing live bait to supplying all necessary gear, including rods, reels, and lures, Captain Peter and his crew are dedicated to making your fishing experience truly unforgettable. And with no fishing license required, you can focus on the thrill of the catch without any hassle. Simply step aboard, cast off, and let the adventure begin. With our prime location in Neptune City, accessing the best fishing spots in New Jersey has never been easier. Whether you're seeking the challenge of reeling in a trophy-sized catch or simply looking to unwind amidst the beauty of the open water, Mad Hatter Fishing Charters has something for everyone. So why wait? Book your New Jersey fishing charter with Mad Hatter Fishing Charters today and experience the thrill of reeling in your next big catch while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the wonders of the sea with us – your adventure awaits!

EPSG:4269

Slow for us today, saw fish up top , read a bunch but the small baits they’re feeding on made it tough to find bites . Tried jigging trolling and just couldn’t get them going.  Tough ones happen, can’t all be lights out.

Grind Day on the Water

Great trip with Rob, Bob, Alex, Dan, Henry, and Mookie today. The boys ground it out dark to dark putting a full box together. Mostly cookie cutter roasters with a dozen or so larger models which is great to see. All our drops produced shorts and keepers with a couple drops producing bites like the old days with all boxers coming over the rail.  Always a good time with these guys, laughed all day long. Thanks men, until next time…..

Dark to Dark, Full Box

Some hot sticks pics from today. Working through loads of short life today the crew found some nice ones mixed around. No limits but everyone had a keeper or two for home. Looks like it’s shaping up to be a good season.

Promising Start and Steady Action on the Water

The Wayniacs worked hard for them today.  Another grinder but they managed a decent box of flatties.


Hard Work Pays Off for the Wayniacs

7/18.  Great day with the HotSticks crew.  Started off with a solid bite and solid offshore breeze.  Had keeper and short life but went looking for better. Took a ride and found keepers very stop we made. Last drop of the day produced the best today giving the guys a nice mixed bag of fluke, sea bass, ling, and a beautiful trigger.  Back at it tomorrow. Good luck everyone fishing the tournaments.

Steady Action and a Solid Mixed Bag Offshore

Friday 7/11 with Adam and co.  Fluke were biting for the first couple hours both short life and keepers then dropped to nothing.  Bounced to a dozen different spots, big moves little moves all produced the same for us.  Just a tough day but not from lack of trying. They pounded the bottom all day.  Ended up with a nice mixed bag of fluke, sea bass, ling, triggers just not as much as we’re used to seeing.  Tomorrow’s another day I guess. As always, thanks for a great trip, always a hilarious group of guys to fish with.

Tough Bite but Plenty of Laughs with Adam’s Crew

5/23. Another great day with these guys. Adam’s Crew Precious!!! You made it boys! See you in 2.


Good Times and Big Wins with Adam’s Crew

Saturday 5/9. Had Dave H and his crew on the bite straight out of the gate today close to home.  Unfortunately, it didn’t hold up the way we wanted so went into search and destroy mode.  Ended the day 35 miles from home but it paid off. Got a full box of keepers, bunch of releases and enjoyed the day in brown water and blue sky’s!  Thanks for another great trip Dave. Sea you for some sea biscuits!


From Slow Start to a Full Box Finish

Sunday. The boys straight up smoked them today right out of the gate.  Some of the best trolling I’ve seen with 3-4-5 on at a time for the first 4 hours of fishing. Wrapped it up with 10 yellow fin and 10 bluefin, all nice quality fish.  Needed a day like this after last trip, wish they could all be like today.

Nonstop Action and Full Coolers Offshore

Striped Bass

Striped Bass Bite Heats Up in Neptune City – Trophy Fish Hitting Hard in Surf and Offshore Waters

Striped bass fishing in Neptune City, NJ, is currently experiencing exceptional conditions as we approach the end of May. Anglers are reporting impressive catches both from the surf and offshore waters.

🔥 Hot Spots & Techniques:

Surf Fishing: The beaches are yielding trophy-sized stripers, with some fish reaching up to 45 pounds. Effective lures include metal-lip swimmers and topwater plugs. Anglers have found success using sand bugs in the early mornings.

Offshore Waters: Larger striped bass are being caught offshore, particularly by anglers trolling live eels on planer boards. These methods have proven effective in targeting the bigger fish that are currently feeding aggressively.

Rivers and Bays: Smaller stripers are active in the local rivers and bays. Soft plastics and topwater plugs are producing good results, especially during the outgoing tide. 
On The Water

🎣 Local Charter Success:

Smokin Reel Charters, operating out of Neptune City, has reported a strong bite on jumbo striped bass, indicating that the local waters are currently holding significant numbers of quality fish. 
FishingBooker

🌦️ Weather Outlook:

The upcoming weekend forecast suggests variable clouds with occasional showers and temperatures ranging from the low 60s to low 70s°F (16–22°C). Anglers should be prepared for changing conditions and plan their trips accordingly.

🎯 Pro Tips:

Timing: Early morning and late evening hours have been particularly productive for striped bass.

Gear: Ensure your tackle is suitable for handling large fish, especially if targeting the trophy-sized stripers offshore.

Safety: Always check the latest weather updates and sea conditions before heading out, and inform someone of your fishing plans.

With the current abundance of striped bass in the area, now is an excellent time for both novice and experienced anglers to hit the waters of Neptune City.

We wasted no time getting our gear set up and lines in the water, mixing a variety of techniques from deep sea trolling to jigging with heavy and light tackle. It wasn't long before Thomas' rod doubled over, and he was into a scrappy Striped Bass. The fish put up a great fight, making some powerful runs and testing his skills, but he handled it like a pro and soon had the fish in the boat. As we continued working the area, the action remained steady, with Striped Bass hitting our baits and lures with authority.

The day unfolded with a great mix of productive fishing and enjoyable camaraderie. In between hook-ups, we discussed tactics, swapped stories, and took in the scenery of the New Jersey coastline. It's these types of well-rounded trips that really make the experience special - not just the number of fish caught, but the overall vibe and time spent out on the water. Thomas seemed to have a great time, and I was happy to provide him with an unforgettable day of inshore fishing.

If you're looking to get in on the best nearshore and inshore fishing action in Neptune City, NJ, be sure to book an 8 Hour Striped Bass Charter with Mad Hatter Charters. Whether you're an experienced angler or just looking to try your hand at targeting these hard-fighting gamefish, we'll put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast in the process. The waters off the New Jersey coast are teeming with Striped Bass this time of year, so don't miss your chance to get in on the action. Give us a call today to schedule your trip!

Captain

Reel in the excitement of a Jersey Shore striped bass frenzy with an unforgettable inshore adventure that delivers hard-fighting gamefish and camaraderie-filled memories.

Striped Bass Thrill Ride on the Jersey Shore

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Launch at 5:30 a.m. with Mad Hatter Fishing Charters for a focused morning chasing hard-fighting striped bass along the Jersey coast. This 7- to 8-hour inshore trip is designed for anglers of any skill level who want steady rod bends backed by local insight from a seasoned Neptune City crew. We provide fresh bait (gulp not included), premium tackle, and ice to keep your catch table-ready. With space for just six guests, the outing feels like a private lesson—perfect for perfecting live-lining, jigging, or first-light top-water tactics. Need a later launch? Departure times can shift to match tides and your schedule. Reserve today and see why Neptune City is a prime striped bass hot spot.

Cabin Cruisers

1 Seaview Cir, Neptune City, NJ 07753, USA

1 Seaview Cir

8.00hour

Full Day Striped Bass Fishing Trip In Neptune City

Striped Bass Frenzy on the Jersey Coast - An Epic Inshore Encounter!

Neptune City Striped Bass Bonanza: An Unforgettable Inshore Adventure

Summer Flounder

NJ Summer Flounder Fishing Report 

<div>NJ summer flounder fishing report. 6 man charter hunting for doormat fluke.&nbsp;</div>

Nice day of fishing with solid action. Conditions weren’t ideal but the crew put a box together for the table. Spent the day looking for fluke, tons of short life again and some keepers in the mix. It’s shaping up for a good fluke season. Ling and sea bass still around so get on it before it closes.

Two summer flounder, 22 inches, caught while fishing in NJ

New Jersey Fishing Report 

A fisherman catches a tautog in Neptune City

A striped bass caught while fishing in NJ

Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime with Mad Hatter Charters! Book your fishing trip today and experience the thrill of reeling in trophy catches while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Mad Hatter Charters delivers top-rated New Jersey fishing charters right out of Neptune City, pairing local insight with friendly guidance from Captain Peter and his seasoned crew. Beginners and veterans alike enjoy tailored trips that target striped bass, tuna, fluke, and more—whether you prefer deep-sea runs or action-packed inshore sessions. Our crew knows where the fish feed and shares pro tips on every drift, making striper fishing New Jersey style both productive and memorable. With safety gear inspected before each departure and licenses covered, all you have to do is step aboard and cast. Your ride is a 40’ BHM Downeast workhorse fitted with outriggers, downriggers, a cushioned fighting chair, spacious cockpit, and modern electronics that lock onto game fish fast. We supply premium rods, reels, tackle, and live bait at no extra charge, plus we ice your catch for the ride home. From family outings and corporate groups to die-hard anglers chasing a personal best, every trip is planned around your goals and the season’s hottest bite. Reserve a date with Mad Hatter Charters and experience deep-sea fishing New Jersey visitors rave about—where great service, steady action, and coastal scenery come together in one unforgettable day.

Captain Peter Clarke brings over 25 years of fishing charter experience to Mad Hatter Charters, making him a trusted guide for anglers of all skill levels. His deep passion for fishing is matched by a solid background in marine biology, which adds an enriching layer to every trip. Captain Clarke’s extensive knowledge of local waters and fish behavior ensures that each outing is both educational and rewarding, creating a unique blend of adventure and insight for his guests. As an educator in marine biology, Captain Clarke goes beyond the typical fishing guide role by sharing fascinating facts about the marine environment throughout the journey. His approachable style and ability to connect with guests—whether families, novices, or seasoned anglers—help foster a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s ecosystems. He is also committed to conservation and sustainable fishing, making every trip with him not only fun but also responsible and respectful toward marine life. Captain Clarke is highly skilled in a wide range of fishing techniques, tailoring each trip to the preferences and goals of his guests. From light tackle finesse fishing to intense deep-sea battles, he knows how to maximize the chances of a great catch. His expertise covers bottom fishing, trolling, jigging, popping, spinning, and drift fishing, ensuring versatility in targeting species ranging from striped bass and bluefish to offshore game fish. His deep knowledge of seasonal patterns and local hotspots makes every outing productive and exciting. The vessel Captain Clarke commands is a 40-foot BHM Downeast cabin cruiser, built in 2017 and designed for both comfort and performance. Powered by a 580HP Caterpillar engine, the boat cruises smoothly at speeds up to 22 knots, quickly getting anglers to prime fishing grounds. Spacious enough for up to six passengers, it offers ample deck space and a comfortable cabin, providing an ideal setting for both inshore and deep sea fishing trips. This combination of expert captain and reliable vessel ensures guests enjoy a safe, comfortable, and memorable day on the water.

Meet Captain Peter Clarke and Mad Hatter Charters

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Join Mad Hatter Charters for a thrilling fishing expedition - Don't miss out on the ultimate fishing boat experience!

Fishing Boat 

Mad Hatter Charters Fishing Boat 

Book a bucket-list 20-hour offshore fishing trip in NJ. Target tuna, marlin & more with Mad Hatter Charters' experts.

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World-Class NJ Tuna Fishing | Mad Hatter Charters

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Premier NJ Offshore Tuna Charters | Mad Hatter

Book an 8-hour inshore tautog charter off the NJ coast. Expert guides, top gear, and prime spots await. Don't miss out!

Tog Time

Expert NJ Tautog Charters | Mad Hatter Fishing

Contact Captain Peter for Inquiries!

Family Fishing Charters

Common Questions: How much do fishing charters with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey cost?The cost of fishing charters with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey varies depending on the trip type and duration. Our charter cost from $1200 to $4500. What types of fishing trips does Mad Hatter Charters offer in New Jersey?Mad Hatter Charters offers a variety of fishing trips in New Jersey, including inshore fishing, deep sea fishing, and specialized trips for species like striped bass. Are fishing charters with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey suitable for beginners?Yes, Mad Hatter Charters caters to anglers of all skill levels, including beginners. Our experienced crew will provide guidance and assistance throughout the trip. What is included in the price of a fishing charter with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?The price of a fishing charter with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey includes the use of all fishing equipment, bait, and licenses. We also have a knowledge First Mate onboard How long are fishing trips with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?Fishing trips with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey can vary in duration, with options ranging from 8 hours to 20 hours. Can I book a private fishing charter with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?Yes, Mad Hatter Charters offers private fishing charters in New Jersey for groups looking to have the boat to themselves. What is the best time of year for striped bass fishing with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?The best time for striped bass fishing with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey is typically during the spring and fall migrations. Are there any discounts available for fishing charters with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?Mad Hatter Charters may offer discounts for certain groups or during specific times of the year. Contact us for more information. What should I bring on a fishing charter with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?Anglers should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items they may need. Mad Hatter Charters will provide all fishing equipment. How can I book a fishing charter with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey?To book a fishing charter with Mad Hatter Charters in New Jersey, simply book here on our website or call to check availability and make a reservation.

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