Fishing Guide in Salem
Salem's protected harbors and rocky shorelines give us consistent access to striped bass and bluefish, while the open water beyond the breakwalls puts us on tuna and false albacore when the bite is on.
Fishing Salem
I run charters out of Salem because the fishing here is as varied as it gets on the North Shore. Inside Salem Sound, we work the structure around the islands and channels for striped bass that stage up on bait schools from spring through fall. The rocky points and drop-offs hold fish in different ways depending on tide and season, and I adjust our approach based on what the water is telling us that day. When bluefish move in during summer, they tear through the same areas with that aggressive feeding that makes them a blast on the fly.
Once we clear the outer harbor and push into deeper water, the game changes completely. Late summer and fall bring tuna and false albacore within range, and we target them when conditions line up. The albies especially show up in September and October, running bait tight to the surface in fast-moving pods. It takes quick casting and sharp eyes, but when you connect with one on a fly rod, it's some of the most exciting fishing we do all season.
A day out of Salem means flexibility. We might start working the inside waters for stripers at first light, then run offshore if the tuna bite is happening. I also guide for black bass in nearby freshwater when clients want a change of pace or when the saltwater conditions are tough. Every trip is built around the conditions, the season, and what you want to experience on the water.
Trip Options
What We Provide
- A boat rigged and ready for the day's fishing
- Rods, reels, and tackle for every angler
- All bait, ice, and terminal tackle
- Bottled water and cold drinks
- A licensed captain who knows the water
What to Bring
- Sunglasses, sunscreen & a hat
- Confirm any fishing license or permit requirements with Captain Eliot before your trip.
- Food and drinks in a soft cooler
- Weather-appropriate clothing and a light jacket
- Non-marking, closed-toe shoes
- Your camera — and a sense of adventure
Have a custom trip in mind? Call and we'll set it up.
Fishing Salem with Boston North Shore Charters
Protected Inside Waters
Salem Sound offers sheltered fishing for striped bass and bluefish even when offshore conditions are rough.
Offshore Access
We can reach tuna and false albacore grounds quickly when the late-season bite heats up beyond the harbor.
Year-Round Opportunities
From spring stripers to fall albies and freshwater black bass, there's always a fishable option out of this area.
Structure-Rich Habitat
Rocky points, channels, and island edges create ambush zones where predator fish stack up on baitfish.
What Anglers Say
“Capt. Eliot Jenkins is a Master Fishing Guide, both youthful and seasoned. He's a Pro Fishing-guide's "guide", as well as a mentor to a novice. He is a Striped Bass whisperer. The Ipswich River and its tidal creeks course through his veins. He is a certified Captain of an…”
“As a fishing guide from Wyoming, I’m pretty picky who I’ll spend my money with to go fishing! I couldn’t be happier with my experience with Captain Eliot! Awesome guy, fantastic fishing guide, and all around great boat captain! He put us on some real nice fish, we shared some…”
“Outstanding Striped Bass Guide I recently had the opportunity to fish for striped bass with guide Eliot Jenkins, and I couldn’t have been more impressed. His boat and equipment are top notch, and his experience and knowledge really show. Eliot has extensive guiding experience in…”
Fishing Salem FAQ
What's the best time of year to fish Salem?
Do you fish inside Salem Harbor or head offshore?
Can beginners fly fish out of Salem?
Also Fishing Near Salem
Boston North Shore Charters runs trips throughout the waters around Salem.
Ready to Get on the Water?
Dates fill up fast in season. Reach out to Boston North Shore Charters to lock in your charter.
