Business Details
Premier Fishing & Crabbing Charters in Avalon, NJ
Miss Avalon Fishing & Crabbing Charters has been a trusted name in Avalon, NJ for over 70 years, offering unforgettable fishing and boating experiences. Founded in the early 1950s by Captain Irv Hurd Sr., our family-owned business combines deep local knowledge with a passion for maritime adventure. We operate two vesselsthe 78-foot Miss Avalon for ocean fishing and the Avalon Lady for back-bay excursionscatering to both novice and experienced anglers. Our services include full-day and half-day fishing trips, crabbing adventures, private charters, sunset cruises, and youth fishing camps.With a focus on safety, education, and customer satisfaction, our expert captains and crew prioritize personalized service, ensuring every guest enjoys productive fishing, wildlife encounters, and lasting memories. We maintain a modern fleet, provide all necessary equipment, and emphasize sustainable practices to protect our coastal ecosystem.
Services
Ocean Fishing
Bay Fishing
Crabbing Trips
Private Charters
Fishing Camps
Sunset Cruises
Highlights and features
- Family-owned for over 70 years with generational maritime expertise
- Two specialized vessels for ocean and bay fishing adventures
- Expert captains and crew dedicated to guest satisfaction
- Family-friendly trips and educational youth fishing camps
- Consistently top-rated for customer service and fishing success
What people say
Fantastic experience
Great crew
Perfect day
Highly recommend
Excellent staff
Services
Ocean Fishing Charters
The 78-foot Miss Avalon offers full-day and half-day ocean fishing adventures targeting sea bass, fluke, triggerfish, and more. Our experienced captains use advanced navigation to locate prime fishing spots, while crew members assist guests of all skill levels with baiting, catching, and handling fish. Ideal for families, groups, and serious anglers seeking trophy catches.
Bay Fishing Expeditions
The Avalon Lady provides scenic back-bay fishing trips focusing on flounder, croaker, and sea robin. These calmer waters suit families with children or those preferring shorter excursions. Captains share local ecology insights while ensuring guests learn proper fishing techniques and safety practices in a relaxed environment.
Crabbing Adventures
Learn traditional crabbing methods using various traps while exploring tidal creeks and marshes. Our crew teaches guests to bait, set, and retrieve traps while explaining local marine ecosystems. Trips combine hands-on education with opportunities to harvest fresh blue crabs, perfect for families and first-time crabbers.
Private Party Cruises
Customizable private charters for celebrations, corporate events, or sunset viewing. The Miss Avalon accommodates groups with amenities like shaded decks, onboard bathrooms, and flexible itineraries. Popular options include dolphin-watching routes, photography tours, and themed cruises with music and special activities.
Fishing Camps
Four-evening summer camps teaching children (ages 8+) fishing basics, knot-tying, crabbing, and boating safety. Led by Captain Brandon and naturalist instructors, activities include evening fishing sessions, trap demonstrations, and catch preparation. Includes a free T-shirt, certificate, and practice trip.
People
Captain Irv Hurd
Founder
Fourth-generation fisherman with 70+ years of local water expertise, established Miss Avalon in the 1950s to share his maritime heritage through guided fishing adventures.
Captain Brandon Hurd
Lead Captain
Third-generation skipper overseeing daily operations, youth camps, and ocean charters. Combines advanced fishing techniques with patient instruction for guests of all ages.
Jennifer Hurd
Crew Member
Experienced naturalist and educator leading back-bay trips, teaching marine biology concepts while ensuring guests enjoy productive and educational outings.
Questions
How do I book a fishing charter?
Reserve online through our website or call (609) 967-7455. We recommend advance booking during summer months.
What should I bring on a trip?
We provide rods, bait, and tackle. Bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and closed-toe shoes for safety.
Are children allowed on fishing trips?
Yes! We offer family-friendly trips and youth fishing camps for ages 8+. Life jackets provided.
What happens if weather is bad?
Trips may be rescheduled due to unsafe conditions. We prioritize guest safety and communicate proactively.
Do you guarantee catching fish?
While we can't control nature, our experienced captains maximize fishing success using proven techniques and local knowledge.
Reviews (7)
Thomas Horbach
Aug 27, 2021
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Absolutely fantastic, I'm somewhat handicap and the crew was very helpful, I've been on (3) charters and plan in going on plenty more, I used to go out of Fortescue but NO MORE Miss Avolon all the way it's worth the 45 min drive. the boat is really big and we'll kept the crew is friendly (and right there when you have a fish on and help you reel that monster in if needed) and to take it off the hook and rebait your hooks. at the end of the tour what ever fish you catch they will filet for you and put them in freezer bags .PLUS they have a pool for the largest fish caught you win the pot. can't
Cassandra Crosier
Aug 03, 2021
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First time being on Miss Avalon we did the 4 hour from 1-5 pricing is not bad at all. The ride out and back in was pretty relaxing. I was the only one out of our 4 person group that caught a fish. We will be going back again for sure,definitely fun even if you don't catch anything and the crew members were very helpful and very nice.
Brad Spaulding
Jul 31, 2021
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First Time Kayaking! Loved it . . Let's first start by saying that the employees were very helpful. Gave us very good instructions on what to do, where to go, how to follow the tide back. Very informative! Thanks for all the help:)
Mike
Jul 26, 2021
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Took a half-day AM ocean fishing trip. I didn't get a bite. But I had a great time! I've been on several other similar charters and this has been the best one. The boat is clean and very well staffed. Prior trips on other vessels have only had one or two mates. This boat had at least four plus the captain helping folks out. And they were very nice. Highly recommend. 5/5 stars if I caught something. Haha. Will definitely go again.
Adam Melson
Jul 19, 2021
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Our 6 year old loves Miss Avalon. She jumps up and down waiving regardless if she's in an ear shot or eyesight of the boat. Captain Irv helped make her birthday REALLY special in letting a banner saying happy birthday hang on the site of the boat. She still talks about how Miss Avalon remembered her birthday and can't wait to head out for an upcoming birthday on her or the lady.
Kurt Gottshall
Jul 13, 2021
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Took my 2 sons (9 and 12) for their first deep sea trip on the Miss Avalon. Wasnt a great trip for keepers, but my boys (9 and 12) are new-ish to fishing and this was their first deep sea experience. The crew was fantastic! Serious around the old salts and really turned on the jokes for the kids. My boys caught several fish, none were keepers, but they got to land different fish than we do at our local PA lakes. We are making this a part of our family vacation for years to come. Just a ton of fun, especially for kids that usually fish streams, lakes and rivers.
Alaina Field
Jun 12, 2021
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Eventhough we didn't get to go on Miss Avalon because it was full, the alternative, The Avalon Lady, for back bay flounder fishing was enjoyable, also. Capt. Brandon and crew were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable of the area to ensure ... Fish on!!! Definitely would go again and can't wait to try Miss Avalon next.
