WASHINGTON FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Moonlit Lines on the Potomac: Night Fishing Aboard Betty
An evening, three-hour night-fishing charter on the Potomac aboard Betty with Captain Seth — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Moonlit Lines on the Potomac: Night Fishing Aboard Betty.
Adventure brief
Moonlit Lines on the Potomac: Night Fishing Aboard Betty
Experience the Potomac River after dark aboard Betty, a sleek 230 Dauntless, for a serene three-hour night-fishing charter led by Captain Seth. These carefully timed evening trips target blue catfish and striped bass beneath the moonlight, offer a cooler, calmer—and often more productive—alternative to daytime outings, and launch on select evenings starting June 30.
Situated along the vibrant waters of the Potomac River, FishThePotomac offers a nighttime angling experience that transforms this iconic location into a haven for nocturnal fishing. Captain Seth’s Night Fishing Charters aboard the sturdy Boston Whaler Betty provide a fresh perspective on one of the region’s prime waterways, renowned for its blue catfish and striped bass. Starting June 30, these trips are designed for groups eager for a peaceful yet adrenaline-pumping evening away from the daytime hustle. The Potomac River itself is a remarkable natural corridor, flowing through Maryland and Virginia, featuring a mix of tidal and freshwater habitats teeming with diverse wildlife and rich history. The river’s shifting light—moonlit and shimmering—sets the perfect scene for angler-focused tranquility, with the chance to land sizeable blue catfish or striped bass that thrive beneath the surface. What makes FishThePotomac’s trips stand out is their emphasis on serenity, fishing skill, and local knowledge, making each outing a bespoke adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, Captain Seth’s expertise ensures memorable moments tailored to your experience level. The company’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices fosters respect for local ecosystems and supports the long-term health of these waters. A night on the Potomac not only offers prime fishing but also an opportunity to witness the river in its quiet, moonlit glory—swimming with wildlife and steeped in history. This trip is an ideal way to experience the region’s natural allure with a unique after-hours twist, making it a must-do for Chesapeake Bay enthusiasts. Come prepared for a peaceful, intriguing night under stars, and get ready to reel in some of the river’s notable nocturnal giants.
Route Schematic
Route and night-fishing stops
Key moments on the charter include departure, a river transit under the skyline, and the anchored fishing stops where lines go in.
The Yards Marina (Departure)
Trips depart just before sunset from The Yards Marina; this is the embarkation point for the evening charter.
Cruise beneath the DC skyline
A short transit along the Potomac provides a quieter, cooler passage with reduced daytime traffic as you move toward night fishing locations.
Anchored night fishing spots
Once on-station, the charter targets blue catfish and striped bass during the prime night window aboard Betty.
These are select-evening charters beginning June 30; operator capacity is limited (the operator notes 'perfect for groups of up to 4 adults' and headline material references up to 6 passengers), and routes or timing may be adjusted by the captain for conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Betty: a 230 Dauntless set up for night charters
The outing runs aboard Betty, the 230 Dauntless that hosts these specialized night trips—designed for a stable, comfortable cruise as you head to evening fishing spots on the Potomac.
Target species after dark
The charters focus on blue catfish and striped bass—species the operator highlights as primary targets on these moonlit outings.
A quieter, cooler river at night
These evening trips offer far less boat traffic and a different river vibe—cooler, calmer conditions that the operator notes can be more productive than daytime runs.
What the day feels like
What the night feels like
Over a compact three-hour window, you board just before sunset and head into the Potomac with Captain Seth. The focus is straightforward: a peaceful evening cruise under the DC skyline, positioning at prime night fishing spots to pursue blue catfish and striped bass aboard Betty on select evenings beginning June 30.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should check details before booking.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
A headlamp is not required but is encouraged (noted as a stylistic choice by the operator).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where and when do these night charters depart?
Trips depart just before sunset from The Yards Marina (301 Water St. SE, Washington, D.C.).
How long is the Night Fishing!!! - Boston Whaler charter?
The charter runs for three hours.
What species will we be targeting on the evening trip?
The trips are set up to target blue catfish and striped bass.
How many people can join a single night charter?
The operator describes the trips as perfect for groups of up to 4 adults, though headline material also references up to 6 passengers—confirm capacity with the operator when booking.
Do I need special gear for a night trip?
Special gear is minimal; a headlamp is not required but is encouraged for convenience and 'style points' according to the operator.
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: 2026-09-14T12:08:36.666Z
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.