Top-Rated Tilefish Charters in Cape May, NJ

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Cape May
$800 - $3,300 price range
Updated Date: September 5, 2025

Summary

Ready for a serious fishing adventure? Join Captain Clint Clement on a 12-hour tilefish trip out of Cape May, New Jersey. You'll head way offshore to waters 600 feet deep, where golden tiles and blueline tiles are waiting. The captain knows all the best spots, so expect some good action. This trip is perfect whether you're an experienced angler looking for a challenge or newer to fishing and want to learn. With room for 6 guests, you can bring a few buddies along. The boat, run by Common Sense Sportfishing, is set up for deep-water fishing. You'll use heavy tackle and electric reels to bring up these tasty bottom-dwellers. It's a long day on the water, but the potential for big catches makes it worth it. Pack some snacks, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a full day of fishing in the deep Atlantic.

Top-Rated Tilefish Charters in Cape May, NJ

Deep-Sea Tilefish Action

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Hooked up in Cape May waters

Reel in Giants: 12-Hour Tilefish Trip

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready for a deep-sea adventure that'll have you telling fish tales for years? Hop aboard Captain Clint Clement's boat for a 12-hour tilefish extravaganza off the coast of Cape May, New Jersey. We're talking serious fishing here - 600 feet down where the big boys play. Golden tiles, bluelines, and more are waiting to test your skills and fill your coolers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your sea legs, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your gear and let's hit the canyons!

What's the Deal with This Trip?

Alright, here's the scoop: We're headed out for a full day of hardcore bottom fishing, targeting some of the tastiest deep-water dwellers in the Atlantic. Captain Clint's been running these waters for years, and he knows exactly where those tilefish like to hang out. We'll be dropping lines way down - we're talking 100 fathoms or more. It's not your average fishing trip, that's for sure. You'll be using heavy-duty gear to winch up these deep-sea delicacies. And let me tell you, when you feel that first tug from a big golden tile, you'll be hooked (pun intended). The boat can take up to 6 anglers, so it's perfect for a group of buddies or even the whole family if they're up for an adventure. Just remember, we're out there for the long haul - 12 hours flies by when you're hauling in fish after fish!

How We'll Be Fishing

Listen up, because this ain't your grandpa's lake fishing. We're talking electric reels, heavy braided line, and enough weight to sink a small boat (okay, not really, but you get the idea). We'll be using specialized rigs with multiple hooks baited up with squid, cut fish, or whatever else the tiles are hungry for that day. The name of the game is precision - we need to get those baits right in front of the fish's nose 600 feet down. Captain Clint's got top-of-the-line electronics to find the sweet spots, and once we're on 'em, it's drop, wait, and hang on! These fish fight hard, especially when you're cranking them up from the depths. Don't worry if you're new to this style of fishing - the crew will show you the ropes and have you fishing like a pro in no time.

Fish You'll Be Chasing

Let's talk targets, folks. Our main quarry is the mighty Great Northern Tilefish, also known as the Golden Tilefish. These beauties can grow up to 50 pounds or more, with electric blue fins and a golden sheen that'll make your eyes pop. They're not just pretty to look at - they're delicious too, with firm white meat that's a favorite among seafood lovers. Golden tiles are curious fish, often coming right up to the boat to check things out. They're known for their hard fights and their habit of digging burrows in the seafloor.

Next up, we've got the Atlantic Goldeneye Tilefish. These guys are a bit smaller than their golden cousins, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers. You might hear them called "blueline tiles" because of the distinctive blue lines on their cheeks. They're aggressive feeders and once you find a school, you can expect non-stop action.

Blackline Tilefish, also known as Sand Tilefish, are another species we might encounter. They're not as common as the goldens or bluelines, but they put up a great fight and are just as tasty. These fish have a sleek, elongated body with a striking black line running down their sides.

Last but not least, we've got the Grey Tilefish. These are the oddballs of the tilefish family, with their steep foreheads and bright yellow fins. They're not as common in our catches, but when we do hook one, it's always a treat. Grey tiles can grow pretty big, sometimes over 30 pounds, so be ready for a workout if one takes your bait!

Why Anglers Can't Get Enough

I'll tell you why folks keep coming back for more tilefish action - it's the perfect mix of challenge and reward. These fish aren't easy to catch, but man, when you do, it's something special. There's nothing quite like the feeling of battling a big golden tile from the depths, wondering what's on the other end of your line as you crank and crank. And when that iridescent fish finally breaks the surface? Pure magic. Plus, let's not forget about the eating - tilefish are some of the best-tasting fish in the sea, with sweet, flaky meat that'll have you planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock.

Time to Lock in Your Spot

Alright, anglers, if you're itching to get out there and tangle with some tilefish, now's the time to make it happen. Captain Clint's trips fill up fast, especially during peak season. Whether you're looking to check tilefish off your bucket list, want to stock up on some of the best seafood you'll ever taste, or just need a day away from the grind, this trip's got you covered. Bring your A-game, a good attitude, and maybe a couple of energy drinks - it's going to be a long, fish-filled day. So what are you waiting for? Give Common Sense Sportfishing a call and get ready for some of the best deep-drop fishing the East Coast has to offer. Trust me, once you've felt the pull of a big golden tile, you'll be counting down the days until your next trip. See you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Atlantic Goldeneye Tilefish

Atlantic Goldeneye Tilefish are a real treat to catch. They're not as big as their golden tile cousins, typically running 24-39 inches and 40-65 pounds. You'll find them in shallower waters than other tilefish, often around coral reefs and sandy areas. These fish have a distinctive look with their golden spots on a dark olive-green body. They're bottom feeders, so we target them with fresh cut bait - squid or eel works great. Drop your rig to the bottom and wait for a bite. They're not shy eaters, so you won't have to wait long. Goldeneyes are active year-round, but spring and summer are prime time when they're spawning. The fight is solid for their size, and they're excellent table fare. Just be mindful of mercury levels if you're keeping them for dinner. One tip: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook too quickly. Let them get a good mouthful before reeling in. It's a fun challenge that even newer anglers can enjoy. The unique look and tasty meat make Goldeneyes a favorite among our guests.

Blackline Tilefish

Blackline Tilefish are a real sight with their violet-blue bodies and dark stripes. They're smaller than some other tilefish, usually maxing out around 24 inches and 24 pounds. You'll find them in deep waters, typically 490 to 820 feet down, over sandy or muddy bottoms. These fish are sight and scent feeders, so presentation is key. Fresh squid is the go-to bait, but bonito or mackerel chunks work well too. Here's a pro tip: use a drop light near your bait. The deep water pressure means you need something sturdy - a plexiglass light that clips to your leader does the trick. Blacklines are most active in warmer months, but you can catch them year-round. They put up a decent fight for their size and have a softer flesh compared to other tilefish. Some folks even serve them as sashimi. When you're targeting these fish, be ready for strong currents. Use enough weight to keep your bait down, and pay attention to your drift speed. Aim for about 2 knots for the best results. It's a challenge, but landing a Blackline is always satisfying.

Great Northern Tilefish

The Great Northern Tilefish is a prized catch, often called the "golden tile" for its vibrant color. These deep-dwellers hang out around 600-800 feet down, usually on soft, muddy bottoms. They're big fish, averaging 38-44 inches, with males growing larger than females. Tilefish put up a solid fight and taste great - some folks say it's like lobster. To land one, you'll need heavy tackle and fresh bait. Squid, mackerel, or barracuda chunks work well. Drop your rig to the bottom and wait for that telltale tug. These curious fish often investigate disturbances, so a lead weight hitting bottom can draw them in. Tilefish are slow-growing and long-lived, so we practice sustainable fishing. The population's healthy now, but their average size has decreased over the years. Best time to target them is spring through fall when they're most active. Remember, patience is key when fishing the deep - but the reward is worth it when you bring up one of these golden beauties.

Grey Tilefish

Grey Tilefish, also known as blueline tilefish, are a real treat for deep-water anglers. You'll find these bottom-dwellers in depths of 250-800 feet, sometimes even deeper. They like muddy or rocky bottoms where they can dig burrows. These fish typically run 5-8 pounds, but can grow up to 35 inches and 23 pounds. Look for that distinctive blue line from their nose to under their eyes. They're aggressive feeders, so once you find them, you're in for some action. To catch greys, we use deep drop fishing techniques. Heavy weights, sensitive lines, and circle hooks in the 5/0 to 7/0 range are key. Squid, eel, or chunks of bonita make great bait. Here's a local tip: attach a light strobe to your rig to attract more attention. Grey tilefish are nicknamed "poor man's lobster" for their tasty meat. They're most abundant in winter months here in Florida, making for some great off-season fishing. Remember to be patient when fishing these depths - the wait is worth it when you feel that solid tug on your line.

About the Common Sense Sportfishing

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Cummins

Maximum Cruising Speed: 26

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 370

Ready for an offshore adventure? Join Captain Clint Clement on a 12-hour tilefish expedition out of Cape May, New Jersey. We'll head to the edge, dropping lines around 600 feet deep in search of golden and blueline tilefish. Captain Clint knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for some serious action. Whether you're a pro angler or just getting your sea legs, this trip offers a chance to hook into some impressive catches. With room for up to 6 guests, gather your crew and prepare for a full day of fishing fun. Captain Clint's expertise means you'll be hitting the best spots and maximizing your time on the water. So grab your gear, bring your appetite for adventure, and let's chase some tilefish in the deep waters off Cape May!

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