GLOUCESTER FISHING FIELD GUIDE
A Day Harvesting Giant Bluefin with Captain Dave off Gloucester
A 12-hour open-boat outing from Gloucester where participants can take part in the commercial harvest of giant bluefin tuna and learn about sustainable fishing practices.
A Day Harvesting Giant Bluefin with Captain Dave off Gloucester.
Adventure brief
A Day Harvesting Giant Bluefin with Captain Dave off Gloucester
From Gloucester, join an exhilarating, open-boat adventure to harvest Giant bluefin tuna: participants can engage directly in the process, contributing to a commercial harvest while learning about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of the species.
Located off the coast of Angelica Fisheries, this high-energy trip takes anglers into the deep blue waters where Giant bluefin tuna roam. Based on the bustling docks of Angelica Fisheries, this outing offers an adrenaline rush for seasoned and aspiring fishermen alike. Captain Dave, a seasoned expert with years of experience navigating local tuna hotspots, leads the way, sharing his knowledge on sustainable fishing techniques that help preserve this iconic species. The trip begins with a briefing aboard a sturdy open boat, catching sight of shimmering schools of baitfish and the occasional dorsal fin slicing the surface. As the boat drifts into prime bluefin territory, the anticipation builds—there’s nothing quite like the roar of a reel as a massive tuna strikes. Participants don their gear, set their lines, and brace for the fight that follows, embodying the raw power and cunning of these ocean giants. What makes this trip stand out? It’s the chance to connect directly with a vital part of local industry and heritage, all while experiencing firsthand the thrill of catching one of the ocean’s most prized gamefish. Besides the breathtaking action, anglers learn about sustainable harvesting and the ecological significance of bluefin tuna, making this more than just a fishing trip—it's an investment in conservation. Located near the vibrant town of Angelica, this adventure is accessible for visitors staying in nearby major cities and offers a true taste of offshore fishing for those craving an authentic, action-packed day on the water.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Schematic
A typical trip progresses from Gloucester out to offshore tuna grounds, time on the fish, then a return and offload—key phases where participation and harvest decisions occur.
Departure from Gloucester
The trip departs from Gloucester; the outing is an open-boat, full-day excursion.
Offshore tuna grounds
Time is spent on offshore grounds targeting Giant bluefin tuna, with participants given the opportunity to engage in the harvest.
Return and offload
On return to port, any tuna landed for commercial harvest are retained by the vessel and sold in accordance with federal law requirements.
This is an open-boat, 12-hour commercial fishing trip; participants should be aware that landed tuna are subject to federal commercial-retention and sale requirements.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Participate in a commercial harvest
These trips give participants the opportunity to take part in the harvest of Giant bluefin tuna; if tuna are landed for commercial harvest the vessel retains and sells them as required by federal law.
Giant bluefin tuna up close
The focus of the trip is harvesting Giant bluefin tuna, offering direct encounters with one of the ocean's most prized species.
Hands-on view of sustainable practices
Participants learn about sustainable fishing practices and the broader importance of the species while joining a working commercial operation.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a full, 12-hour open-boat experience in which anglers and visitors join the vessel to fish for Giant bluefin; the day centers on participating in the harvest and observing how a commercial catch is handled and regulated.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and why.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The trip is a 12-hour outing.
Operated by Angelica Fisheries out of Gloucester, Massachusetts.
If any tuna are landed for commercial harvest the vessel retains and sells them as required by federal law.
The provided trip information does not include a detailed gear list, nor does it state participant age or health restrictions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip duration is 12 hours.
Where does the trip operate?
The trip departs from Gloucester, Massachusetts.
Who operates the Open Boat Tuna Trip with Captain Dave?
The trip is operated by Angelica Fisheries, with the outing titled Open Boat Tuna Trip with Captain Dave.
What happens to tuna that are landed?
If any tuna are landed for commercial harvest the vessel retains and sells them as required by federal law requirements.
Can participants take part in the harvest?
These trips are an opportunity for participants to come along and participate in the harvest of Giant bluefin tuna.
What species is targeted on this trip?
The trips target Giant bluefin tuna.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-14T12:08:48.604Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.