If you've been wondering what to bring deep sea fishing, here's the best news you'll read all day: the answer is a lot less than you think. Celtic Quest trips out of Port Jefferson are fully all-inclusive — we bring the rods, the tackle, the bait, and our crew cleans your fish at the end of the day. What you actually need fits in a small bag. Here's exactly what to pack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own fishing rod or tackle?
Not at all — and that's one of the things people are happiest to find out. Every Celtic Quest trip includes fishing rods, all tackle, and all bait. Just show up. Our crew will get you set up, help you with your first cast, and take care of the whole experience from start to finish. Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, you don't need to bring a single piece of gear.
Is a fishing license included in my ticket?
Yes — your New York saltwater fishing license is included in your fare, so there's nothing to purchase or print before you arrive. New York State requires a license for saltwater fishing, and we take care of it for every passenger on every trip. You can read more about state licensing requirements on the New York DEC website, but the short version is: we've got you covered.
Will the crew clean my fish for me?
Absolutely, and it's one of the highlights of the trip. At the end of every Celtic Quest outing, our mates fillet and clean your catch right on the dock. You go home with bags of fresh fish ready for the kitchen — and more than a few people who've never fished before end up as the hero of the dinner table that night.
Should I bring a cooler to take my catch home?
A small cooler is a nice touch, though not required. We bag your cleaned fish for you, so at minimum you'll want something in your car to keep things fresh on the drive home. A soft-sided cooler with a few ice packs is perfect. Nothing big or elaborate — just enough to keep your porgies, fluke, or sea bass in good shape until you get to the kitchen.
What shoes should I wear on a fishing charter?
Closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles — sneakers, rubber-soled deck shoes, anything with a solid grip. Flip flops are risky on a wet deck, and we'd rather you not find that out the hard way. Comfortable, sensible footwear is all you need.
What should I wear for a day on Long Island Sound?
Layers are your best friend, especially in spring and fall. A May morning leaving Port Jefferson Harbor can be genuinely cool, even if the afternoon warms up beautifully. Fall trips out toward Mattituck can shift fast. Dress for about ten degrees cooler than the forecast, bring a light windbreaker or rain shell, and peel off layers once the sun gets going. Summer trips call for lightweight, breathable fabrics and a brimmed hat — the breeze on the water is real and wonderful, but the sun is strong out on the Sound.
What's the best way to prevent seasickness on a charter trip?
The good news is that Long Island Sound — where we fish out of Port Jefferson and Mattituck — is generally much calmer than open-ocean fishing. The protected waters between Long Island's North Shore and the Connecticut coast don't carry the same swells as the Atlantic. That said, if you're prone to motion sickness, eat something light before you board, stay toward the middle of the boat, and keep your eyes on the horizon if you start to feel off. Over-the-counter remedies are available at any pharmacy — ask your pharmacist or doctor about what's right for you, and take it before you board, not after.
Is there food available on the boat, or do I need to bring my own?
Bring your own. Pack sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water or sports drinks — small coolers are very welcome. Beer and wine are perfectly fine to bring along; hard liquor is the one exception we ask you to leave at home. On a cool fall morning, a thermos of hot coffee is worth its weight in porgies. The Celtic Grace also has a microwave onboard if you'd like to bring something warm on a full-day trip. If you want a proper sit-down meal before or after, The Steam Room near the marina has been feeding anglers since 1977, and Port Jefferson Village has plenty of great restaurants within easy walking distance of the dock.
What should I NOT bring on a fishing charter?
Hard liquor, flip flops, and anything you'd be heartbroken to lose overboard. Leave the expensive watch at home. A waterproof case or a zip-lock bag for your phone is a simple, smart fix. Beyond that, the list of things to leave behind is short — and knowing what to bring deep sea fishing really comes down to sunscreen, layers, snacks, and a good attitude. That's genuinely all you need for a wonderful day on the water.
Ready to see what a day on Long Island Sound actually looks like? Explore our trip types or check our booking page to find a date that works for you. Give us a call at (631) 928-3926 — we'd love to help you plan a great day out.