A Guide to Nantucket for the Angler

Nantucket is a wonderful destination for anglers of all skill levels, offering a wide range of fishing opportunities in both saltwater and freshwater environments. Its rich maritime history, combined with diverse ecosystems and plentiful fish populations, makes it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. From deep-sea fishing charters to surfcasting along the island’s beaches, Nantucket caters to both casual and experienced fishermen.

Surfcasting is extremely popular on Nantucket, and the island’s expansive beaches provide excellent locations to cast right from the shore. Nantucket’s beaches offer access to striped bass, bluefish, false albacore, and bonito, making surfcasting a rewarding activity for both casual and serious anglers.

Best Beaches for Surfcasting:

Madaket Beach: Ideal for experienced anglers, Madaket is a prime spot to catch striped bass and bluefish. The strong currents and deep waters just off the shore usually attract larger fish.

Great Point: One of the most famous surfcasting spots on the island, Great Point is accessible only by four-wheel drive.

Cisco Beach: Another popular spot for surfcasting, especially during the summer and fall months. The beach is known for its bluefish and bass.

Nobadeer Beach: Known for its young, lively atmosphere, Nobadeer is also a great spot for surfcasting, especially for bluefish. Its accessible location makes it easy to spend a day fishing right from the shore.

For those looking for bigger catches, Nantucket offers incredible deep-sea fishing. Anglers can venture offshore for a chance to catch large game fish like tuna, mahi-mahi, swordfish, and even sharks. Deep-sea fishing charters are widely available and offer half-day, full-day, or even multi-day trips.

Deep-Sea Fishing Charters:

Albacore Charters: Known for their expertise in both inshore and offshore fishing, Albacore Charters offers custom trips for all experience levels.

Topspin Fishing Charters: Specializing in offshore fishing, Topspin offers full-day charters for those looking to land large fish like bluefin tuna and sharks.

Nantucket is a great destination for fly fishermen. Whether wading into shallow waters or fishing from a boat, fly anglers can target striped bass and bluefish in the island’s surrounding waters.

Best Areas for Fly Fishing:

Polpis Harbor: Known for its shallow waters and flats, Polpis Harbor is perfect for fly fishing, especially in the summer. Anglers can wade into the water or fish from a small boat, making it a versatile spot for fly fishing.

Nantucket Harbor: Offering calm, protected waters, Nantucket Harbor is another excellent fly-fishing location.

For those who prefer to stay closer to shore but still want the thrill of fishing by boat, inshore fishing offers great opportunities around Nantucket. Target species include striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and scup.

Inshore Charters: Inshore charters take anglers to areas just off the coast where the fishing is productive without needing to venture far offshore. These trips are perfect for beginners to experienced anglers, and those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed fishing experience.

Though known for its saltwater fishing, Nantucket also offers limited freshwater fishing opportunities in its small ponds. Freshwater species such as largemouth bass, pickerel, and perch can be caught in these peaceful settings.

Miacomet Pond: One of the few spots on the island where freshwater fishing is possible. It’s a good place for casual anglers to spend a quiet day fishing for perch and other freshwater species.

Surfcasting gear and fishing equipment are available for rent at various locations on the island, making it easy for visitors to get started without needing to bring their own equipment.

Shellfishing and scalloping is time-honored tradition on Nantucket, with the opportunity to harvest a variety of shellfish, including the renowned Nantucket Bay Scallops.

The season for harvesting certain shellfish can be limited, so it's best to plan accordingly.

The recreational season for bay scallops runs from October 1 to March 31, Wednesday through Sunday and is limited to one bushel per week.

Harvesting for oysters and quahogs is permitted year-round, but there are still limits on the sizes for harvesting. Quahogs must measure at least 1 inch at the hinge, and oysters must be at least 3 inches in length. The limit is one bushel per week for quahogs and half a bushel per week for oysters.

Harvesting is allowed from September 15 to June 15 for soft-shell clams, with a limit of one bushel per week. Clams must measure at least 2 inches in length.

Best Locations for Shellfishing:

Madaket Harbor: Known for its abundance of bay scallops, Madaket Harbor is a popular spot for both recreational and commercial scallopers.

Nantucket Harbor: This area offers opportunities to harvest various shellfish species, including scallops, quahogs, and oysters. The harbor's extensive shoreline provides multiple access points for shellfishing.

Eel Point: Located on the north shore, Eel Point is a favored spot for quahogging.

Permits are required for shellfishing for visitors (and residents) ages 14 and above. Permits can be obtained at the Public Safety Facility at 4 Fairgrounds Road. Fees apply for residents and for non-residents, with free permits for residents over 60. It's important to have the right gear for shellfishing, that usually includes: waders or a wetsuit, a rake, a basket or bucket, and gloves.