White marlin fishing out of New London / Waterford
White marlin fishing out of New London / Waterford runs July to September. Lucky Strike lists marlin and mahi-mahi in that same window.
The port sits on the Thames River at the east end of Long Island Sound. The New London / Waterford port guide covers the harbor, the channels and the boat ramps. For the wider offshore picture across the region, see white marlin in the Atlantic Northeast (see also the Atlantic Northeast fishing guide).
| Species | Listed window |
|---|---|
| White marlin | July to September |
| Mahi-mahi | July to September |
| Season note | Both species are listed together by Lucky Strike |
Where boats run and the structure on the way
The landmarks below are reference points near the port, not a course. Chart layers are not for navigation, so use the official chart.
- The Race
- Bartlett Reef and The Spindle
- Watch Hill reefs
- Black Point
The Race
The Race is a named passage and fishing ground near the port. Boats running east out of New London pass it.
Bartlett Reef and The Spindle
Bartlett Reef is named structure off Waterford. The Spindle is the navigational aid on the rock pile at the south end of the reef.
Watch Hill reefs
The Watch Hill reefs are named structure to the east of the port.
Black Point
Black Point is a named point to the west of the port, useful for orientation.
How white marlin are fished here
Keepin’ It Reel reported a white marlin fought to the boat and lost at the leader, so fish do come to the boat here. Spreads, baits and leader work are covered in our white marlin guide.
Check the official NWS marine forecast before the run.
Who fishes for white marlin from this port
Keepin’ It Reel Sportfishing lists white marlin, and it is also the charter that reported the fish lost at the leader, so the listing and the report come from the same boat. A listed charter is one option if you are new to the port.
For other billfish, see the billfish guides.
FAQ
When is the white marlin season for fishing out of New London / Waterford?
July to September. Lucky Strike lists marlin and mahi-mahi in that window.
Do boats from this port hook white marlin?
Yes. Keepin’ It Reel reported a white marlin fought to the boat and lost at the leader.
Is there a charter that lists white marlin?
Keepin’ It Reel Sportfishing lists white marlin.
What structure do you pass running out?
The Race, Bartlett Reef and The Spindle, the Watch Hill reefs and Black Point are named landmarks near the port. They are reference points, not an ordered route.
Where are the billfish rules?
NOAA’s Atlantic Highly Migratory Species office sets the federal billfish rules, and CT DEEP sets the state rules. Check both before fishing.
