Open Boat Trips
OPEN BOAT FISHING TRIP (ALL ANGLERS WELCOME, RESERVATION REQUIRED):
Every Monday and Thursday evening from 5:00 - 9:00 pm.
Trips depart from Lakeview Marina (2 S Beach Rd - Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849)
These are open boat, head boat-style trips on Lake Hopatcong – similar to the saltwater “head boat/party boat” trips that are so popular in NJ. Guests will fish aboard one of our customized fishing pontoon boats, all of which are equipped with fish finders and rod holders. All trips will be captained by a LHGS guide. 8 slots are available per trip and advanced registration is required. A minimum of 3 guests are required for the boat to leave the dock - anyone already registered will receive notice one day prior to departure if the trip will not be going out due to lack of reservations.
What to Expect: Unlike our privately guided trips, customers on our open boat trips are responsible for all their own fishing-related tasks (knots, baiting hooks, removing fish, etc.). We are there to help when necessary, but your captain's primary responsibilities are leaving the dock promptly at 5:00 pm, proper boat control and putting the group on fish, providing a safe and enjoyable outing, and returning back to the dock promptly at 9:00 pm.
What to Bring/What is Provided:
Rods: Unlike our privately guided trips, guests are encouraged to bring their own rods (strict 2 rod limit x person). For guests without their own rods, spinning rods rentals are available for $10 x rod.
Tackle: Guests are encouraged to bring their own tackle (strict 1 tackle box limit). Basic live bait tackle can be provided for $10 x person.
Bait: Live bait is not provided. Guests wishing to use live bait must bring their own. Dow’s Bait Shop, located conveniently on the lake and close to Lakeview Marina, is the recommended place to stop for live bait on your way to the boat.
Booking: Reserve your spot via the "Book Now" feature on our website or clicking here.
Cost: $80 x person
Rules and Instructions
What to Bring:
Personal Belongings: Anglers may bring 1 personal bag, small cooler, or bucket. A maximum of 2 rods and 1 tackle box is permitted. No exceptions. Room can be limited with larger groups, so please pack as efficiently as possible and with respect to others onboard.
Head lamps are highly recommended - though should only be on when necessary.
Fishing License: A valid fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 - 69 (a license is not required for children 15 and under and anglers 70 and older). You can purchase a license and read about the regulations here: https://www.njfishandwildlife.com/fishneed.htm
Alcohol Policy: No glass bottles or hard alcohol are permitted onboard. Canned beverages in moderation are fine.
Keeping Your Catch: Catch and release is highly encouraged. If you plan to keep some fish for the dinner table, please be advised that we offer NO fish cleaning services and your fish cannot be filleted on site at the marina/dock.
Arrival: Guests are asked to arrive no earlier than 4:40 pm for our 5:00 pm departure. No fishing at the marina.
Exiting: Guests are asked to clean up their fishing area and pack their gear on the way back to the dock at the end of the trip. Due to our location in a residential area, all guests MUST keep noise to a minimum and exit promptly upon return. No fishing at the marina.