Board a spacious 24' pontoon and be in Ocean City’s productive back bays within minutes—ideal for families, first-time anglers, and crabbers. Stable, shaded, and crew-supported, this rental turns short trips into reliable days on the water.
Board a spacious 24' pontoon and be in Ocean City’s productive back bays within minutes—ideal for families, first-time anglers, and crabbers. Stable, shaded, and crew-supported, this rental turns short trips into reliable days on the water.
Book with Ocean City Fishing Center
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ocean City Fishing Center · Ocean City, New Jersey
Fishing Pontoon #1 in Ocean City, New Jersey offers an uncomplicated, family-friendly way to fish, crab, and explore the back bays that thread the Jersey Shore. The outing centers on a roomy 24-foot pontoon powered by a 60 HP motor and topped by a bimini shade, giving anglers and families a stable platform for everything from light tackle striped bass runs to relaxed crabbing sessions. Pull away from the dock and you’ll be in tidal channels and shallow flats framed by salt-marsh grass within minutes; these protected back bays concentrate bait and make for reliable fishing close to shore. Local catches commonly include flounder, striped bass, bluefish, dogfish and small sand sharks, while the nets and pots come up full of bay crabs during the season. The shallow, maze-like water is also a great place to introduce kids to angling—rod tips go down more often than not. This rental accommodates up to 12 people, or 11 if you request a mate to join the trip, and can be booked in blocks from two to six hours. The open layout and stable hull make the pontoon a quieter, more comfortable option than small skiffs, and the bimini top carves out shaded refuge for midday outings. On-site bait and tackle are available for last-minute needs, and staff will point you to productive local holes and set you up for success. Practical rules matter here: arrive 30 minutes before your reservation to complete paperwork; all children 13 and under must wear life jackets on the dock and on the boat; pontoons may not beach, and docking at restaurants requires a mate aboard. Navigational boundaries run between the Longport Bridge and the Garden State Parkway Bridge, with a single allowed crossing under the 9th Street Bridge toward Somers Point—captains will supply a map and orientation. For anglers seeking a day that blends easy access with solid bay fishing, this pontoon is a top pick. It’s a low-stress, high-reward way to experience Ocean City’s water—whether you’re aiming for a cooler full of fluke and bass, introducing someone to crab lines for the first time, or simply wanting a comfortable platform to drift and watch ospreys scour the marsh. With flexible rental lengths and a straightforward local crew, Fishing Pontoon #1 turns Ocean City’s productive back bays into an approachable, memorable day on the water. Staff also run a brief boater instruction course for guests without a license when you check in at the shop, so newcomers can feel confident behind the wheel. The operation is dog-friendly and family-focused, and the crew’s local knowledge shortens your learning curve. Pack sunscreen, a cooler for the catch, and a sense of curiosity—the bays reward patience and local know-how.
The pontoon holds up to 12 people; if you request a mate to join, capacity is 11 because the mate counts as a passenger.
No—staff will run a brief boater instruction course at the shop for guests without a license when you check in and complete paperwork.
Yes—there is an on-site bait and tackle shop for last-minute supplies and staff can recommend what to use.
Yes, the operation is dog-friendly; follow crew guidance and keep pets secured on the boat.
Boundaries run from the Longport Bridge to the Garden State Parkway Bridge with one permitted crossing under the 9th Street Bridge toward Somers Point; a map is provided.
Arrive 30 minutes early to fill paperwork; all children 13 and under must wear life jackets on the dock and boat; pontoons may not beach and docking at restaurants requires a mate aboard.
Ocean City Fishing Center operates family-friendly bay fishing charters out of Ocean City, Maryland. The business runs trips aboard the custom-designed Bay Bee, a 40-foot vessel that navigates Sinepuxent and Assawoman Bays. Trips include private 2-, 3- and 4-hour options and scheduled bay trips, with expert guidance, state-of-the-art equipment, and on-board snacks and refreshments. Children are welcomed with special activities such as a treasure box and “Caught My First Fish” certificates; special children's fares apply on some private trips. Targeted species include flounder and sea bass, and crews focus on safe, educational outings for anglers of all skill levels. Reservations accommodate private groups, families, and couples seeking sunset cruises or fishing-focused charters. The business emphasizes safety and comfort through experienced crew members and a well-maintained vessel. Annual raffles with prizes are offered to guests. Ocean City Fishing Center provides clear trip descriptions, duration options, and departure times so visitors can choose a matching experience. Trip summaries outline start times and child-friendly features to help plan memorable outings. Advance booking accommodates private charters as available.
Book with Ocean City Fishing Center