Fishing with the Best

by L.A. DiNardi

Whether you are an experienced angler or have never picked up a fishing rod in your deprived life, going to Montauk is a trip that will create lifelong memories. Touted the “best sportsfishing place in the world”, you can find almost any variety of Atlantic fish in this migration hub. To maximize your experience in Montauk, we searched out the best charters for your fishing expeditions.

It is a highly competitive market for fishing charters, so to be considered the best is quite an accomplishment. Factors considered in choosing the top five were experienced captains, cost, successful trip testimonials, and services offered. There is a plethora of places to choose from in Montauk, so this list can get you started.

With a slogan like theirs, “Bring Your Lunch, Catch Your Dinner”, it is hard to imagine being anything but successful in the charter business. The Lazy Bones is a charter owned by Captain Mike Vigessi, a lifelong fisherman who got his start being a mate for some of the most experienced captains in Montauk. He and his family have owned and operated The Lazy Bones for several decades, and the prices are fantastic. They run half day trips for $50 per person, with two mates per trip to assist folks with bait and landing the fish. They have many options available for full and half day trips, and run from April through December.

The Lady Grace is another top rated fishing charter, with a very professional and upscale atmosphere. If you are booking a corporate fishing trip, the Lady Grace is the way to go. The boat is custom built for Montauk fishing, and full loaded and equipped to impress. Bait and tackle are included in all the trips, and Captain Mario with find your catch of the day.

Captain and author, Tom Mikoleski is a retired NYPD Sergeant, writer for The Fisherman Magazine, and the owner of Grand Slam Charters. His aim is to please every fisherman that steps on his boats, offering free fish cleaning, off-time sailing departures, and multiple species trips for those who enjoy the variety. His boat holds up to 6 people, so his prices are a bit higher than the larger boats, but the personalized service is totally worth it.

Founded in 1936, family owned and operated Viking Fleet Charters has grown over the years, expanding to three locations, including Montauk of course. Captain and owner Paul Forsberg had his first boat in Montauk when he was just 12 years old. He runs the three locations with his son and two grandsons, all of whom apparently have fishing in their blood. The prices are great, starting at $50 for a half day and going up, depending on length and distance of the trip. You can’t get much more experienced than these guys, and the success they have had over the last 80 years speaks for itself.

Looking to experience a fishing tournament? How about a shark fishing tournament with Captain Dan Giunta, owner of the Double D Charter in Montauk? This is just one of the many services Double D offers to make your experience memorable. Not only will they take you for some of the greatest fishing, but bring your family and go whale watching, or fish and dolphin sightseeing. Double D is happy to accommodate you and your family for a great vacation.

With so many great options to choose from, these five surely stand out. When you plan your trip to Montauk, book a day with one of these and treasure the memories for a lifetime.