Island Current runs a diversified fishing and charter fleet out of City Island, Bronx, New York, led by Captain Chris Cullen, sailing daily April through December before migrating to Wakefield, Rhode Island for winter blackfish and cod season (November through spring). “If they swim, we catch ’em” is the fleet’s motto, and the operation is one of the largest and most established in the New York City fishing charter scene.
The fleet includes three USCG-certified vessels: the 42-foot Island Current (up to 17 passengers), the 76-foot Island Current III (up to 125 passengers), and the 90-foot Super Current (up to 149 passengers), together capable of accommodating groups from 6 to 150 people for either fishing or cruising. Daily open boat trips depart at 8am (returning ~3pm) and 6:30pm (returning ~12:30am), giving anglers both day and night options. Beyond fishing, Island Current also runs Moonlight Cruises past the Manhattan skyline and fireworks displays, private charters for corporate events and parties, and educational tours.
City Island open boat rates run $80 for adults, $75 for seniors (65+), and $55 for children (12 and under), the same day or night, with rod rental at $5. In Rhode Island, Blackfishing runs $110 for adults/$80 for children, and Cod/Sea Bass trips run $125 for adults/$80 for children (rod rental $10). Private charters (any of the three boats) are quoted directly by calling or texting Captain Chris with the date, passenger count, and fishing or cruising preference; gratuity (20%) isn’t included. Winter Cod Fishing (January-March) departs from a special winter location at Snug Harbor Marina, with private charters welcomed on the 50′ Island Current II and 76′ Island Current III. Free dockside parking is available at both locations.
With an outstanding 298 reviews at a 4.0 average, Island Current has built one of the largest and most established reputations of any fishing charter operator researched in this session.
For anglers and groups looking for public open boat fishing or a large private charter out of City Island (or seasonally in Rhode Island), Island Current offers a highly reviewed, multi-boat operation with Captain Chris Cullen.
