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.
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.
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.