This summer, do something more memorable than a backyard barbecue.  Instead, invite family and friends on a fun-filled fishing excursion!  You don't need a boat or a boating license to get in on the fun.  All you'll need are the names and numbers for the Island's best fishing charter and party boats.  By chartering a boat, you can enjoy a relaxing time at sea with a knowledgeable captain who will take you to the best fishing spots and maintain the boat while you and you friends and family try to land a big one.  Be sure to call ahead to find out what supplies will be needed, or if fishing supplies will be provided, and if there are any rules regarding food or alcohol on the boat.  If you'd like to be in control or go straight to your favorite fishing area, there are also a few boat rental locations that will get you set up with a boat or yacht of any size.  Many rental companies also offer boating classes for novices, or if you just need to brush up on your skills.

Before you go, be sure to check out this year's fishing regulations for Long Island so that you know what to keep and what to throw back, then enjoy a day or evening on the Sound or sea with one of these boating companies!

Fishing Charter Boats

Blackfoot Fishing Charters
222 Old Neck Road
Center Moriches, NY 11934
631-874-0070
Enjoy a safe and successful day or night of fishing with Captain Jeff Roye, who holds a 100 Ton Master’s License for the United States Coast Guard, and who is also licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Celtic Quest Fishing Charters
Port Jefferson Town Dock - 118 West Broadway,
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
631-928-3926
The Celtic Quest has recently been refurbished and is equipped with top of the line fishing electronics.  The sun deck on board is also a popular spot for guests to relax for parties and cruises.

Osprey Fishing
Port Jefferson Town Dock - 118 West Broadway
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
631-331-4153
The Osprey is a 65’ family-run charter/party fishing boat, which is captained by Stew Cash, Amanda Cash, and James Peterson, who each have a vast knowledge and understanding of party boat fishing.

Fishtale Charters at Captree State Park
3500 Ocean Parkway
Babylon, NY 11702
631-766-9578
Fishtale charters offers guided fishing for everyone from novices to experts, and can accommodate up to 87 people.  All fishing gear is supplied, and guests can expect to find fluke, stripers, seabass, porgies, and blackfish.

Castaway Fishing Charters
40200 Main Rd
Orient, NY 11957
631-816-3495
Enjoy a family-friendly fishing experience off of Orient Point, where you will travel to some of the most productive waters for fishing, including the Peconic Bay, Block Island Sound, and Montauk.

Boat Rentals

Long Island Boat Rentals
403 Main Street
Port Washington, NY 11050
516-761-0840
Long Island Boat Rentals is located in Inspiration Wharf in Port Washington, where you can rent anything from 20’ boat with 7 person capacity to a 46’ cruising yacht.  Training programs are available for new boaters.

Strong’s Marine
2400 Camp Mineola Road
Mattituck, NY 11952
631-298-4770
If you’re looking to rent a boat out of Peconic Bay, head to Strong’s Marine, where in addition to just renting a boat, you can also opt to receive a comprehension on-water boating lesson package at the Southampton and Mattituck locations.

Silly Lily Fishing Station
99 Adelaide Avenue
East Moriches, NY 11940
631-878-0247
Grab everything you need at the fishing station, and then rent one of its fishing boats to land your big catch in the waters off of the South Shore.

Where is your favorite place to charter or rent a fishing boat? 
Tell us in the comments!