During the Fly Fishing Show season and our travels, we frequently hear from anglers that Martha's Vineyard has been on their radar but are unsure of the cost involved. Like all destination fisheries, prices vary based on lodging, transportation, food, and whether you fish with a guide. We strongly believe that Martha's Vineyard is a world-class vacation destination and a fishery that rivals anywhere else in the world.
When you combine the amenities the Island offers with heart-pumping saltwater action, a trip to Martha's Vineyard is well worth the cost of admission. However, you don't have to be a billionaire jet setter to enjoy epic fly fishing, scenery, shopping, and beaches! In this blog, we'll break down the costs for the crustiest diehard fish bum to those accustomed to traveling in luxury.
Transportation
Getting to Martha's Vineyard is much easier and cheaper than many anticipate, but you need to know a few things. The Steamship Authority ferry departs Wood's Hole on the Cape about every hour for Vineyard Haven or Oak Bluffs. Both port towns are a quick ride to our shop in Edgartown.
If you're planning on bringing your car, be sure to make reservations in advance. The cost is $242 for a round trip for non-island residents. Plus, an additional 21 dollars for each additional passenger, round trip. However, no reservations are needed for those who leave their vehicle at the Woods Hole terminal, and it only costs $10 per person each way for the quick 45-minute ferry ride!
If you decide to ditch the car, the Vineyard Transit Authority's bus system makes getting around Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown easy and affordable. A full-day bus pass costs $8 a day, $18 for three days, and $30 for the week. There are plenty of spots to fish off bus stops, including the iconic Jaws Bridge!
Flying into the Island is also popular with our New York clients. Roundtrip flights from LaGuardia and JFK cost under $300.
**Many anglers just want to fish for the day. That is no problem. We frequently pick clients up right at any ferry terminal on the Island.
Lodging
Martha's Vineyard offers truly world-class accommodations. Yes, the very best options are expensive, but the prices are comparable to similar options in other tourist destinations or major cities. The good news for fly anglers is prices are lower during our prime fishing season in May/June and September through early November.
The Hob Knob Luxury Boutique Hotel is one of our favorites In Edgartown, and we frequently host events with the Michelin Star-rated Bed & Breakfast. Prices range from $450 to $750 a night during the fishing season, and it is worth it! CNN rated the Hob Knob "One of Ten Best and Most Charming Inns in the Country," and JFK even stayed on the historic property.
Another of Edgartown's marquee accommodation options is the Harborview Hotel near the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse. The Harborview is the Vineyard's original 5-star resort and has been open for 130 years. It is an excellent option for the fall fishing season when anglers will find opportunities to target blitzing albies and bonito right across the street! Packages start at $450 a night during the Fall.
We have an Airbnb above the shop that is perfect for a pair of anglers! It features a full kitchen and all-new appliances. It is less than a 10-minute walk to downtown Edgartown, with restaurants closer. The apartment is located right on the bike path with off-street parking. The Stop and Shop grocery store is less than 5 minutes by foot. You can reserve the apartment HERE.
The Edgar Hotel is one of the most economical options in Edgartown, and many more wallet-friendly hotels are available in Oak Bluffs and Vineyard Haven. Just ask us, and we will direct you!
Guided vs DIY
To make the most of your Martha's Vineyard fly fishing experience, book a guided trip with Kismet Outfitters. Our guides live and breathe this fishery and fish the entire Island on three different boats: a 23-foot Parker for the rips and two flats skiffs to stalk skinny-water stripers. We have beach permits to drive down the beach for shore trips and get to more remote, pristine areas.
Charter rates are $550 for a half-day and $950 for a full-day boat trip. Shore trips are $400 for a half-day and $700 for a full day. For a pair of anglers staying above the shop, the price per person with lodging and a half-day guided boat trip comes out to $525 per person. For anglers who want to fish with us but do not want to stay overnight, we can pick them up by boat at either ferry terminal and drop them off after fishing for an easy day trip!
Many anglers enjoy fishing DIY, and The Island provides excellent opportunities, especially in the spring when fresh stripers are pushed close to the shore. Kismet Outfitters has the best selection of flies on the Vineyard, which are custom-tied for our fishery. Stop by the shop, grab some flies, and we'll point you in the right direction!
We are so excited about this upcoming season. Don't hesitate to email abbie@kismetoutfitters.com and stephen@kismetoutfitters.com with any questions or to book your trip today!
