WILDWOOD CREST FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Ten Hours Chasing Seabass off Wildwood Crest with the Starlight Fleet
A 10-hour deep‑sea charter from Wildwood Crest that ventures 20–30 miles offshore to target seabass, porgies, and blues—this guide lays out what the trip covers and the gear you'll need.
Ten Hours Chasing Seabass off Wildwood Crest with the Starlight Fleet.
Adventure brief
Ten Hours Chasing Seabass off Wildwood Crest with the Starlight Fleet
The Starlight Fleet’s Seabass — 10 Hours departs Wildwood Crest for a full day on the open Atlantic, running 20–30 miles offshore to fish seabass, porgies and blues at depths around 90–130 feet. The trip is operated by a family-run fleet founded in 1976 by Captain Jim Cicchitti and continued by his son, Andrew, combining a long local legacy with a purpose-built offshore program.
Embark on an unforgettable 10-hour deep-sea fishing adventure with the Starlight Fleet, a trusted family-run business operating since 1976 in Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. This trip takes you 20-30 miles offshore into prime fishing grounds teeming with seabass, porgies, and bluefish. Guided by the legacy and expertise of Captain Jim Cicchitti, this experience combines passionate fishing with the stunning expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, expert crew members provide tips and assistance to help you land some of the region’s most sought-after gamefish. Throughout the day, you’ll soak in panoramic ocean views, sea breezes, and the thrill of battling strong, lively fish. With a 10-hour window, you'll have ample time to explore different fishing spots, learn about local marine life, and enjoy some downtime onboard. Starlight Fleet’s comfortable boats and family atmosphere make this a relaxing yet exhilarating way to spend a day on the water. Wildwood Crest's coastal charm also offers great opportunities for dining and entertainment before or after the trip, making it a perfect full-day outdoor adventure.
Route Schematic
Itinerary route schematic
Typical progression of the trip from departure to fishing grounds and return.
Departure — Wildwood Crest
The charter departs from Wildwood Crest under the Starlight Fleet.
Offshore fishing grounds (20–30 miles)
Venture 20–30 miles offshore and fish at roughly 90–130 feet for seabass, porgies and blues.
Return to dock
After the fishing period the vessel returns to Wildwood Crest to conclude the 10‑hour trip.
This is a 10‑hour offshore trip covering 20–30 miles and fishing at 90–130 ft; plan logistics around a full day at sea.
What the day feels like
What the 10-hour trip feels like
This is a full-day, 10-hour offshore charter aboard the Starlight Fleet that travels 20–30 miles from Wildwood Crest to fish at depths of about 90–130 feet. Anglers work conventional tackle appropriate for seabass, porgies and blues while operating within a long-standing, family-run fleet.
THE LEGACY
A family-run fleet built from Cape May roots
The Starlight Fleet began with Captain James Cicchitti in 1976; his work ethic and vision grew a single boat into a regional operation that remains family-run today, carried forward by his son Andrew after Jim’s passing on August 25, 2022.
THE FLEET
Six vessels and a range of outings
JJC Boats, Inc. expanded from one vessel into a six-boat operation — The Starlight, The Atlantic Star, The Starlight 101, The Southern Star, The Dark Star, and The Pieces of Eight — offering deep-sea fishing alongside drift trips, dolphin and bird watching, and themed cruises.
THE FISHERY
Targeting seabass, porgies and blues offshore
The charter runs 20–30 miles out to fishing grounds in roughly 90–130 feet of water to pursue seabass, porgies and blues; tackle recommendations reflect the offshore nature of the trip.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 10-hour trip; plan for a full day commitment offshore.
Suggested tackle: 40# test line, 2/0–4/0 hooks, and 8–12oz of lead.
Operated by the Starlight Fleet out of Wildwood Crest.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The charter is 10 hours in duration.
How far offshore will we go?
The trip ventures approximately 20–30 miles offshore.
What species are targeted?
The trip targets seabass, porgies and blues.
At what depths will we be fishing?
Fishing typically occurs around 90–130 feet of water.
What tackle should I bring?
Recommended tackle includes 40# test line, 2/0–4/0 hooks and 8–12oz of lead.
Who operates this trip?
The trip is run by the Starlight Fleet, a family-run operation founded by Captain Jim Cicchitti in 1976 and continued by his son Andrew.
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: 2026-08-13T02:38:45.397Z
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.