GLOUCESTER FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Twelve Hours Offshore with Captain Dave: A Bluefin Pursuit out of Gloucester
A full-day, 12-hour bluefin tuna charter run by Angelica Fisheries from Gloucester—this guide distills what to expect, what to bring, and the rules you’ll fish under.
Twelve Hours Offshore with Captain Dave: A Bluefin Pursuit out of Gloucester.
Adventure brief
Twelve Hours Offshore with Captain Dave: A Bluefin Pursuit out of Gloucester
From Angelica Fisheries in Gloucester, a 12-hour charter with Captain Dave takes anglers offshore for a full day of bluefin tuna fishing under the operator’s guidance; this guide focuses on logistics, rules, and practical tips drawn from the charter’s published information.
Located on the rocky Atlantic coast of Massachusetts, Gloucester is a historic fishing town with a deep-rooted maritime heritage and one of the Atlantic’s premier destinations for bluefin tuna fishing. The 12 Hour Bluefin Tuna Charter with Captain Dave offers anglers an authentic deep-sea fishing adventure amid some of the most productive waters of the Gulf of Maine. Setting sail from Angelica Fisheries, this all-day charter immerses you in the thrill of chasing these ocean giants in an environment legendary among fishermen worldwide.
This extended 12-hour excursion is crafted for serious anglers looking to land a trophy bluefin. Captain Dave brings years of local knowledge navigating the Gulf Stream’s subtle currents and seafloor contours where bluefin tuna feed. Anglers can expect a dynamic mix of fast-paced trolling and chumming techniques paired with cutting-edge gear supplied by the captain, including rods, reels, ice, and bait—all designed to maximize your chances of a successful catch. You’re welcome to bring your own fishing equipment if preferred, but rest assured, the onboard setup is tailored for bluefin’s intense fight.
Unlike other fishing trips, this charter covers an entire day on the water, giving plenty of time to explore various hotspots teeming with baitfish schools that lure in the big tuna. The Atlantic seabird flocks and occasional dorsal fins breaking the surface add to the immersive maritime atmosphere. While federal regulations prohibit clients from keeping bluefin tuna due to conservation efforts, any undersized fish caught under recreational quotas can be filleted and taken home. Plus, landing a giant tuna earns you a generous discount on future charters—a unique perk that rewards your angling prowess.
Angelica Fisheries is a cornerstone business within Gloucester’s vibrant fishing community. Known for its personalized service and safety-first approach, Captain Dave’s charters emphasize professional handling of the boat, knowledgeable guidance during fishing, and a welcoming onboard environment even for first-timers seeking instruction. The regulation-limited passenger count of six ensures everyone has space and attention.
Gloucester itself offers charming coastal views and the cultural touchstones of New England’s fishing industry. After your trip, explore nearby attractions including the Gloucester Fishermen’s Memorial and local seafood markets to taste the day’s catch straight from the Atlantic. For anyone with a passion for offshore fishing or a desire to experience maritime tradition firsthand, this 12-hour tuna charter presents a rare and rewarding opportunity to engage with one of the ocean’s most powerful fish in a historic setting.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Schematic
Typical flow: meet at the marina, head offshore to tuna grounds for the day, then return to port.
Angelica Fisheries (Meet & Depart)
Meet at Angelica Fisheries for embarkation and departure paperwork before heading out.
Offshore Tuna Grounds
The charter spends the bulk of the 12-hour trip working offshore grounds targeting bluefin tuna for anglers.
Return to Angelica Fisheries
After the day’s fishing the vessel returns to Angelica Fisheries where any kept catch (as permitted) is handled and filleting/bagging services are provided on some trips.
Be prepared for a long, physically demanding day; the captain may cancel or alter plans for weather and safety at their discretion.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Full-Day Bluefin Run
This is a dedicated 12-hour tuna charter, designed to get anglers offshore for a sustained shot at bluefin—expect a full day on the water under Captain Dave and Angelica Fisheries’ operation.
Small, Regulated Charter Boat
Trips operate from a vessel limited by U.S. Coast Guard regulation to six passengers, a constraint that shapes the onboard experience and space for gear and coolers.
Catch and Conduct — Know Before You Go
Federal rules govern tuna retention on these trips: clients generally cannot keep landed tuna under those regulations, and the charter enforces an alcohol and drug policy (beer and wine allowed, hard liquor and all drugs prohibited).
What the day feels like
What a Day on the 12-Hour Charter Feels Like
The trip is a long-day offshore charter that launches from Angelica Fisheries in Gloucester and spends roughly twelve hours fishing for bluefin, with the operator providing the platform and the charter license that covers anglers’ fishing privileges.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 12-hour charter; plan for a full day on the water.
Dress in layers and bring a sweatshirt, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, food and beverage, and a cooler; ice is available aboard if needed.
Bring your own food and beverages. Beer and wine are permitted; hard liquor is prohibited. The charter does not supply food or beverages.
There is a bathroom on board (the marine 'head') but no Wi‑Fi.
For parking information and other questions text 978-288-6446 or contact the operator; the charter provides a contact number for inquiries.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I bring alcohol on board?
Yes—customers may bring beer or wine; hard liquor is strictly prohibited. Drugs are strictly prohibited.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Yes, there is a bathroom on board (referred to as a 'head').
How many passengers can the boat carry?
By U.S. Coast Guard regulation the boat is limited to six passengers.
Do I need a saltwater fishing license?
No—clients are covered under the charter boat’s fishing license.
Can I keep tuna that I catch?
Generally no—federal laws govern tuna retention and clients on tuna trips cannot keep landed tuna; if a short fish is landed under recreational rules it may be permissible pending quota restrictions.
What happens if it rains on the day of the trip?
Trips run rain or shine; weather cancellations are at the captain’s discretion.
Is Wi‑Fi available on the boat?
No, there is no Wi‑Fi on the boat.
Do I need to tip the crew?
Yes—tipping is customary; a 20% tip on the cost of the trip is customary for good service.
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: 2026-09-12T12:12:22.487Z
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.