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Inshore Fishing Charters In North Carolina

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters In North Carolina

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Fishing in Morehead City

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Morehead City

Disabled Vet Fishing Project

100% (1)
45 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Kids' Fishing Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 5 People $
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Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

100% (2)
21 ft 1 - 3 People $
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Fishing in Harkers Island

Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Harkers Island

NC Classic Inshore Fishing Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach Kid's Trip

NEW
26 ft 1 - 4 People $
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Fishing in Frisco

Inshore Fishing Charter in Frisco

Outer Banks Inshore Adventure

NEW
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$

Most Popular Types of Inshore Trips in North Carolina

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More Inshore Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Fishing in Wilmington
Fishing in Wilmington
Fishing in Wilmington
trip description for NC Sportfish Adventure in Wilmington

If you've been looking for a big-time fishing adventure out of Wilmington, NC, then this trip with Captain Joe has your name on it! With 4, 6, and 8-hour options, you can do it all, whether you want to stick to inshore fishing or venture further off and go after some bigger species. The North Carolina coast is rich fishery, and has a variety of habitats where you can catch everything from Spanish Mackerel to Bluefish, Barracuda, and King Mackerel! Captain Joe has been running trips here for decades, and he knows this water extremely well. Whatever species you want to target, he'll set you up with the right bait and tackle so that you can come home with a trophy, fill your cooler with keepers, or both! On this trip, you'll use different techniques depending on the season, water conditions, and your target species. That will typically include trolling, drifting, and classic light-tackle cast-and-retrieve techniques. Let Captain Joe what you're looking for, and he's there to help you get after it! You'll be fishing aboard his 26' Seafox center console, an ideal boat for all kinds of water. She's driven by a 300-HP Yamaha, and is decked out with electronics, gear, and amenities to keep you fishing hard all day. Captain Joe will supply everything you need, so just pack a snack and some sunscreen, and you'll be set to go! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

NC Sportfish Adventure

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 4 People $
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
trip description for NC Inshore/Nearshore Combo in Atlantic Beach

Get ready to explore the inshore and nearshore waters off of Atlantic Beach, NC with Captain Daniel! This trip is perfect for those looking to tackle a wide variety of species, from classic North Carolina inshore sportfish—Redfish, Spotted Trout, Black Drum, and Flounder—to the hard-fighting nearshore fish, such as Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and Striped Bass. Captain Daniel specializes in spinning gear and light tackle, so this trip is a perfect opportunity to practice your cast and retrieve with a variety of different lures and bait. You'll get to test out jigging, top-water retrieves, and some bottom fishing while you try Captain Daniel's best spots and "honey holes". You'll get off the dock aboard your guide's 22' Pathfinder bay boat—the ideal type of vessel for fishing everything from flats to estuaries to inshore structure. It's powered by a 250 HP Yamaha engine, so you'll be on the fish in no time at all. Captain Daniel will come prepared with everything you need for a great day, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. He's an expert in these waters and will do everything he can to get you hooked up on a personal best! Bring along proper clothing, sunscreen, and a pair of polarized sunglasses to maximize your time on the water. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Atlantic Beach

NC Inshore/Nearshore Combo

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Inshore Nearshore Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

If you're looking for an exciting fishing adventure in Wrightsville Beach, NC, then you're in for a treat! Captain G's inshore charter is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to explore the beautiful waters of this area and catch some impressive fish. Captain G will be your guide on this fishing trip, and he has years of experience fishing in these waters. He operates a 23' Sea Chaser center console, which is specifically designed for inshore fishing. The boat is equipped with all the necessary fishing gear and equipment, including fishing rods, bait, and tackle, to ensure that you have a successful trip. Your vessel for the day will be Captain G's 23’ Sea Chaser center console. It is one of the newest vessels in the area and is loaded with all the bells and whistles. Multiple live bait wells and fish tanks, along with comfortable seating, hidden rod storage, Bluetooth radio, deck lighting and much more mean that you'll be fishing comfortably all day! During your inshore charter with Captain G, you'll explore the best fishing spots in Wrightsville Beach, including the nearby inlets, rivers, and coastal waters. You'll have the opportunity to catch a wide variety of popular gamefish species, including Redfish, Speckled Trout, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Cobia, and more. The techniques are up to you! Choose from sight fishing and casting artificial lures, to fishing live and cut bait, bottom fishing jetties and docks, or trolling near the beaches. Captain G will provide you with expert guidance and tips on how to hook fish and land 'em, and he'll work hard to make sure that you have an enjoyable and productive day on the water. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, Captain G's inshore charter is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of fishing in Wrightsville Beach! So why wait? Book your inshore charter with Captain G today and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Inshore Nearshore Fishing

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
trip description for Bluefin on the Surf in Atlantic Beach

In the late fall and early winter months, something crazy happens on the beaches of the Outer Banks: Bluefin Tuna, migrating up the coast, come in close to the shore to gorge on menhaden in the shallow water! Captain Justin, one of the most versatile and experienced captains on the Crystal Coast, has been targeting these migrating fish for years and would love to share this incredible opportunity with you if you're in town between November and December. This is a seasonal trip laser-focused on finding, fighting, and reeling in one of the Atlantic's, biggest, fastest and most impressive fish, the Bluefin Tuna, in meer feet of water. With Captain Justin, you'll head out for a short ride from the dock to the oceanside surf waters. He'll come prepared with all the necessary gear, including top-quality rods and reels, trolling equipment, and most importantly, plenty of expertise for tackling these massive fish. Captain Justin will clean and package your catch for you if you catch some smaller keepers, but it should be noted that any commercial-size fish (73inches or bigger) will be kept by the captain per federal regulations. On the day of the trip, you'll go aboard Captain Justin's 30' Contender center console—a perfect boat for finding, chasing, and landing Tuna. It's equipped with two 300HP Yamaha engines, so you'll spend less time cruising and more time fishing. You'll be set up with everything you need—but when the rod is in your hands, it's just you versus the fish! To make the most of the day, make sure to bring the essentials: Polarized Sunglasses, Hat, Weather-Appropriate Clothing, Sunscreen, and a Camera! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Atlantic Beach

Bluefin On The Surf

100% (1)
30 ft 1 - 4 People $$$
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
trip description for NC Classic Inshore Trip in Atlantic Beach

Get ready to explore the inshore waters off of Atlantic Beach, NC with Captain Daniel! This trip is perfect for those looking to tackle the classic North Carolina inshore sportfish—Redfish, Spotted Trout, Black Drum, and Flounder—while also enjoying the beautiful scenery. Captain Daniel specializes in spinning gear and light tackle, so this trip is a perfect opportunity to practice your cast and retrieve with a variety of different lures and bait. You'll get to test out jigging, top-water retrieves, and some bottom fishing while you try Captain Daniel's best spots and "honey holes". You'll get off the dock aboard your guide's 22' Pathfinder bay boat—the ideal type of vessel for fishing everything from flats to estuaries to inshore structure. It's powered by a 250 HP Yamaha engine, so you'll be on the fish in no time at all. Captain Daniel will come prepared with everything you need for a great day, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. He's an expert in these waters and will do everything he can to get you hooked up on a personal best! Bring along proper clothing, sunscreen, and a pair of polarized sunglasses to maximize your time on the water. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Atlantic Beach

NC Classic Inshore Trip

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People $
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Hampstead
Fishing in Hampstead
Fishing in Hampstead
trip description for Insane Inshore Trip in Hampstead

We will target a variety of species such as redfish, black drum, speckled trout, flounder and sheepshead. We will be using light tackle with artificial baits as well as live bait, each day and situation dictates. I do push for catch and release for all species as much as possible however redfish will not be harvested and will be catch and release only. As a professional guides, its up to us to not just catch fish but to save the fishery for generations after us. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Hampstead

Insane Inshore Trip

NEW
22 ft 1 - 5 People $
See All Inshore Trips in North Carolina

Everything to Know About Booking a North Carolina inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in North Carolina?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 54 inshore trips in North Carolina, and the most popular trips in the area are Disabled Vet Fishing Project guided by Joseph, Wilmington Kids' Fishing Trip guided by Guion, and Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special guided by Jamie.

Our guides in North Carolina are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2570 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

The most popular cities to book an Inshore charter in North Carolina are Morehead City, Wanchese and Beaufort.

Looking for kid friendly inshore guides / fishing lessons in North Carolina? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in North Carolina.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in North Carolina?

The most commonly sought after species for inshore Fishing are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. flounder, and 4. black drum.

The most common fishing techniques in North Carolina are light tackle fishing, trolling, and live bait fishing but bottom fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do North Carolina inshore fishing charters cost?

for inshore fishing in North Carolina prices can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,000, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in North Carolina is $527. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in North Carolina is $830.

What month is best for inshore fishing in North Carolina?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in North Carolina is summer, and most anglers book their trips 27 days in advance.

Do I need a North Carolina fishing license and what are the bag limits in North Carolina?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in North Carolina don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in North Carolina.

What is inshore fishing in North Carolina all about?

Inshore fishing in North Carolina offers anglers a diverse and rewarding experience along the state's picturesque coastline. With an abundance of estuaries, marshes, and sounds, North Carolina's inshore waters teem with a rich variety of fish species. The expansive Pamlico Sound, in particular, stands out as a prime destination for inshore enthusiasts. Here, anglers can target red drum, speckled trout, flounder, and sheepshead, among other coveted catches. The intricate network of marshy areas provides a unique environment for anglers to employ different techniques, such as sight casting along grassy banks or working artificial lures through winding channels.

One of the distinctive features of inshore fishing in North Carolina is its year-round accessibility. Regardless of the season, anglers can find exciting opportunities to pursue their favorite species. In the warmer months, the shallow waters come alive with activity, attracting schools of baitfish and, subsequently, predatory game fish. Conversely, the winter months present a different challenge, as certain species move to deeper channels and holes. This versatility ensures that inshore fishing remains a popular and viable option for anglers throughout the entire year.

Apart from the outstanding fishing opportunities, the inshore waters of North Carolina offer anglers the chance to soak in the natural beauty of the region. The picturesque coastal landscapes, dotted with maritime forests and historic waterfront towns, create a serene backdrop for a day on the water. Whether casting a line from a skiff or exploring the nooks and crannies of the coastal marshes, inshore fishing in North Carolina is not just a sport; it's a holistic experience that connects anglers with the unique charm of the state's coastal ecosystems.

What species are most popular inshore fishing in North Carolina?

Inshore fishing in North Carolina presents anglers with a diverse array of species to target, making it a haven for both seasoned fishermen and novices alike. One of the most sought-after catches is the red drum, also known locally as "redfish" or "spottail bass." These powerful and spirited fish inhabit the coastal waters and estuaries, providing an exciting challenge for anglers. Known for their distinctive copper color and distinctive black spot on their tails, red drum are often caught using a variety of baits and lures in shallow water, making them a popular target for inshore enthusiasts.

Another prized species in North Carolina's inshore waters is the speckled trout, revered for its tasty fillets and acrobatic fighting style. These fish thrive in the brackish waters of estuaries and sounds, especially during the warmer months. Anglers often use live bait or artificial lures to entice these elusive predators. Flounder, with their unique flat bodies and camouflaging abilities, are also a favorite target for inshore fishermen. They are commonly found near the sandy bottoms of channels and creek mouths, and their ambush-style feeding behavior adds an element of strategy to the angling experience.

For those looking to mix up their inshore fishing adventure, North Carolina offers opportunities to target sheepshead and black drum. Sheepshead, known for their impressive dental work and strong, determined fights, are often found near structures such as docks, bridges, and jetties. Black drum, characterized by their large size and distinctive "croaking" sound, are another challenging catch that inhabits the inshore waters of North Carolina. With such a diverse range of species available, inshore fishing in North Carolina ensures that anglers can enjoy a rich and varied experience on the water.

What are the inshore fishing seasons in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the inshore fishing seasons offer a dynamic and ever-changing landscape for anglers throughout the year. Spring marks the beginning of heightened activity as temperatures rise, bringing a surge of life to the coastal waters. This season is particularly exciting for inshore fishing, as species like speckled trout, red drum, and flounder become more active in the shallows. Anglers often enjoy the thrill of sight casting in the clear waters as these fish move closer to shore, creating memorable experiences amid the vibrant coastal scenery.

As summer unfolds, inshore fishing in North Carolina continues to thrive, presenting anglers with a diverse range of opportunities. The warmer months bring an influx of baitfish, enticing predatory species like Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and even tarpon into the inshore waters. This period is perfect for those who relish the excitement of fast-paced action and the chance to target a wider variety of game fish. Whether casting from the shoreline, wading in the shallows, or navigating the intricate network of estuaries, summer in North Carolina offers inshore anglers a wealth of options.

Come fall, inshore fishing takes on a unique character as the water temperatures gradually cool. Red drum, in particular, become increasingly active during their fall spawning season. The changing conditions also trigger the movement of other species, such as speckled trout and flounder, creating a prime window for anglers to capitalize on their feeding behavior. Fall's moderate temperatures and less crowded waters make it an ideal time for both experienced anglers and those looking to embark on a memorable inshore fishing adventure in the coastal beauty of North Carolina.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in North Carolina?

Inshore fishing in North Carolina offers anglers a diverse range of techniques to target the abundant species that inhabit the coastal waters. One popular approach is sight casting, particularly effective in the shallow estuaries and flats. Anglers carefully scan the clear waters for signs of movement, often spotting red drum or speckled trout cruising in search of prey. Precision casting with artificial lures or live bait becomes crucial in this technique, requiring both skill and attentiveness to capitalize on the visual cues provided by the fish.

Another effective inshore fishing technique in North Carolina involves working the edges of oyster beds, marsh grass, and other submerged structures. These areas provide cover and ambush points for species like red drum and flounder. Anglers often use a variety of lures, such as soft plastics or jig heads, to mimic the movement of prey and entice strikes from lurking fish. Patience and accurate casting along these structures can yield rewarding results, making it a popular method for those seeking a more strategic and immersive inshore fishing experience.

Trolling along the channels and deeper waters is yet another productive technique employed by inshore anglers in North Carolina. This method is effective for targeting species like Spanish mackerel and bluefish, which often cruise along drop-offs and underwater structures. Using a combination of live bait or artificial lures, anglers trail their lines behind a slow-moving boat, covering a larger area and increasing their chances of encountering actively feeding fish. Whether wading, casting from a skiff, or trolling the deeper channels, mastering these diverse inshore fishing techniques adds an exciting dimension to the angling experience in the coastal waters of North Carolina.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Great - enjoyed every minute.

    Kevin J. with Justin R. of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    We booked a trip with captain Jaime for two days in the beginning of our trip. My fiancé is an avid fisherman, and was able to pick captain Jamie‘s brain for information on the area, and he gladly shared. Captain brought us to some great spots, and there were some fish caught. We even got to fish one of the shipwrecks from the Civil War, which was amazing. We couldn’t of asked for a more hospitable and kind and knowledgeable guide for this trip.

    Richard G. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    My son and I had such a fun trip with Captain Jamie! He was great with my son, a patient teacher, and he navigated the area with ease. He even tried to hook us a shark! We also saw dolphins and lovely wildlife, and we caught some interesting fish. My son can’t wait to go back and is counting down the days until we see Jamie again!

    Heather B. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome time with capt. Joe. He worked extremely hard to put us on the fish. Water conditions weren't to our favor, But we will be back next year. Can't wait to fish with our new found friend again. And have another great day on the water. ☆☆☆☆☆

    Jackie B. with Joe T. of Harkers Island, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Joe was the best captain we could ask for.. He put us right on the fish and was hitting almost not stop for the duration.. Highly-qualified and great personality ...

    Kevin L. with Joe C. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip and the kids caught fish.

    David H. with Guion L. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Daneil is an amazing captain. He made sure that we got a large variety of fishing experiences, we caught so many that we loss count of how many fishes were caught...we just had such an amazing day. My 17 yr old grandson slept nearly the whole way home. Highly recommend him

    Susan T. with Daniel G. of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Grey was outstanding. Under typically iffy December conditions on Pamlico Sound he put us into trout and drum. I've fished with 4 other charters over the past decade in the Carolinas and Captain Grey was best.

    James G. with Grey D. of Swan Quarter, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip. Very knowledgeable guide and lots of fish caught!

    Jim B. with Joseph D. of Morehead City, North Carolina

Other Types of Fishing in North Carolina

Other Types of Hunting in North Carolina

How are fishing conditions in North Carolina?

View North Carolina Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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