Captain of the Month: Captain Todd MacGregor of MAC-ATAC Sportfishing
This month, we are proud to feature a captain who truly embodies the “old-school” spirit of New England angling. Captain Robert Todd MacGregor of MAC-ATAC Sportfishing isn’t just a seasoned veteran; he is a second-generation guide who has spent nearly his entire life navigating the legendary waters of Cuttyhunk and the Elizabeth Islands.
With over 4,300 charters under his belt and a career that began as the youngest licensed captain in the country back in 1985, Todd brings a level of increasingly rare “local knowledge” to the rail.
A Lifetime on the Water
For Captain Todd, fishing wasn’t a hobby he discovered—it was his upbringing. “I started going on fishing trips with my Mom and Dad before I was out of diapers,” he recalls. “I would sleep in the boat while they floated clam worms for Stripers in Narragansett Bay.”
His path was forged in the rips of Westport and Cuttyhunk, working for his father before striking out on his own. In an era before “Captain’s Schools,” Todd learned the hard way: offshore lobstering, harpooning swords, and studying Chapman’s Piloting.
The turning point came in August 1974. “My Dad took me to Cuttyhunk, and the dock was mounded with piles of Stripers and Blues. From that day, seven-year-old Todd MacGregor set a goal to be the best Striped Bass guide there is.”
The MAC-ATAC Experience
Operating out of the Acushnet River Safe Boating Club in Fairhaven, Todd specialises in Striped Bass, Bluefish, and Tuna. His vessel, the MAC-ATAC, is a 26’ Shamrock Express powered by a 240 HP Yanmar diesel. It is custom-rigged with a stern tiller and trolling valves, allowing Todd to micro-manage his speed to match the specific drift of the tide.
What sets Todd apart?
- The “Rip” Specialist: He is one of the last “old-time” rip fishermen, expertly maneuvering his boat between rocks in pitch-black conditions to find trophy bass.
- The Evening Edge: While many head out at dawn, Todd swears by the sunset. “The evening bite is typically 2 to 3 times better than the morning. Being doubled up on big fish at sunset is a magical experience.”
- Commitment to Conservation: While he loves the hunt, he respects the resource. When vertical jigging for Tuna, if a Cod is hooked, he brings it up slowly to ensure the fish can be released safely without barotrauma.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond the tournament wins and the 60lb Stripers, Todd’s proudest moments come from using his business to give back. He is a staunch supporter of Veterans’ causes and local youth sports, regularly donating charters to the Tony Moniz Fund and the Cape Cod Veterans ‘Wounded Warfighter’ Tournament.
“Luck is where opportunity meets proper preparation. I don’t believe in bad luck, and I don’t care if people bring bananas on my boat—a client’s choice of fruit has zero bearing on how well I fish!”
Captain’s Fast Facts:
- Captain’s Favorite Gear: White Danny Plugs and homemade, custom mini-umbrella rigs.
- Safety First: “Three points of contact at all times, and stay seated when night fishing!”
- The Perfect Meal: Bled Bluefish, cut into scallop-sized chunks and sautéed with onions, celery, and red peppers.
- Off-the-Water Hobby: Cycling the Cape Cod Canal for exercise and fresh air.
Book Your Next Adventure:
Whether you are a family looking to get your kids “hooked” on the sport or an experienced angler chasing a personal best, Captain Todd MacGregor offers an education on the water that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Website: www.macatacsportfishing.com
- Phone: 508-243-8559
- Pickups: Fairhaven, New Bedford, Padanaram, Nonquitt, Salter’s Point, and Cuttyhunk.