Porgy Fishing with Celtic Quest in Long Island Sound
If you’re new to fishing and looking for a fun, approachable adventure, porgy fishing off Port Jefferson, Mattituck, and the Peconic Bay area is a fantastic choice. These waters along Long Island’s North Shore are teeming with opportunities to catch this feisty, delicious fish. Whether you’re casting a line from a boat out of Port Jefferson or exploring the wrecks near Mattituck, the Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet offers trips tailored for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Here’s everything you need to know about porgies fish and how to catch them.
What Is a Porgy?
Porgies, often called scup, are a delight to catch and eat. These fish have a distinctive, flattened body with a silvery sheen, accented by faint vertical stripes. Though they are small, typically weighing 1–3 pounds, some porgie fish can grow larger. Their sharp teeth are perfect for crunching clams and crustaceans, making them fun to reel in—they put up a fight!
One of the best things about porgies fish is that they swim in schools, meaning once you catch one, more are likely nearby. Their mild, flaky flesh makes them a favorite for a fresh seafood dinner, and they’re known for being one of the best-tasting fish in Long Island waters. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is porgy fish good to eat?”, the answer is a resounding yes!
Best Season for Porgy Fishing in Long Island Sound
Timing is key for porgy fishing, and off Port Jefferson, the action heats up from late spring through early fall. The best fishing runs from May to October, when these fish are most abundant in Long Island Sound.
- May-June – Early in the season, porgies migrate into Long Island Sound to spawn, making this a prime time for catching large numbers.
- Summer (July-August) – The bite slows slightly but remains steady throughout the warm months.
- Fall (September-October) – As the water begins to cool, porgy fishing picks up again, often providing some of the best fishing of the year!
If you want to maximize your catch, booking a porgy fishing trip in May-June or September-October with Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet is the best bet.
Best Tackle for Porgy Fishing
You don’t need fancy gear to catch porgies, which makes them a great choice for novice anglers.
- Rod & Reel: A light spinning rod or boat rod paired with 10–20 lb braided line is ideal. Porgies aren’t the biggest fish, but they fight hard!
- Hooks & Rigs: High-low rigs with small hooks work best, allowing you to fish two baits at once—doubling your chances of a catch.
- Weights: Use just enough weight (4–12 oz) to keep your bait near the bottom, where porgies fish tend to gather.
Don’t worry about bringing your own gear—Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet provides all rods, tackle, and bait, so you’re ready to fish as soon as you step aboard.
Best Bait for Porgy Fishing
What do porgies eat? These fish aren’t picky, but some baits work better than others. Here are the top choices for porgy fishing bait:
- Clams – Fresh or salted chunks are irresistible to porgies.
- Shrimp – Small pieces work well, especially in areas with heavy porgy activity.
- Sandworms – Another great choice that porgies love to nibble on.
The crew at Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet will provide you with the best bait for porgy fishing and tips on what’s working best that day.
Why Choose Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet?
The Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet makes porgy fishing easy and fun, no matter your skill level. Sailing from Port Jefferson and Mattituck, they offer daily open boat trips and private charters, all with:
- Rods, bait, and tackle included
- A friendly, experienced crew to help you land your catch
- Filleting services so you can take home a fresh seafood dinner
If you’re looking to experience fresh porgy fish fishing in Long Island Sound, book your trip with Celtic Quest today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?
No! Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet provides all rods, tackle, and bait, so you only need to bring yourself and any personal items for comfort.
What is the best time of year for porgy fishing?
The best season for porgy fishing is from May through October, with peak action in May-June and September-October.
Can beginners join a porgy fishing trip?
Absolutely! Whether you’re new to fishing or an experienced angler, Celtic Quest’s expert crew will guide you every step of the way to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.
Where does Celtic Quest depart from?
Celtic Quest Fishing Fleet sails daily from Port Jefferson and Mattituck, giving you direct access to prime porgy fishing grounds.
What should I bring for my trip?
We recommend weather-appropriate clothing, non-slip shoes, snacks, drinks, and a cooler to store your fresh porgy fillets. Everything else is provided by Celtic Quest.
How long do porgy fishing trips last?
Trips typically last 4 to 6 hours, depending on the trip type and fishing conditions.
Can I keep the porgies I catch?
Yes! As long as they meet New York state size regulations, you can keep your porgies, and our crew will clean and fillet them for you.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unsafe, we may reschedule or issue a refund. We always notify guests in advance of any weather-related changes.
Do I need a fishing license?
No, when fishing aboard Celtic Quest, you are covered under our commercial fishing permit.
Can I bring my own fishing tackle?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own gear, but we also provide top-quality rods, reels, and porgy fishing tackle.
How do I book a porgy fishing trip?
Booking is easy! Visit CelticQuestFishing.com to check availability and secure your spot.