Damn Good Nearshore Fishing Charters In Wrightsville Beach

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Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In Wrightsville Beach, Nc

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Bottomfishing/Trolling Combo

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Exciting Nearshore Half Day

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25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
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Full Day Offshore - 26' Maycraft

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Half Day Spanish Mackerel

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26 ft 1 - 10 People From $450

Top Types of Nearshore Trips in Wrightsville Beach

Top Species for Nearshore Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

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Target Species in Wrightsville Beach

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Wrightsville Beach Kid's Trip

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Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach Nearshore

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Hampstead NC Nearshore

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Everything to Know About Booking a Wrightsville Beach nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Wrightsville Beach?

The best nearshore fishing charters in Wrightsville Beach are:

Why should I book a nearshore fishing charter in Wrightsville Beach with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 21 nearshore trips in Wrightsville Beach, and the most popular trips in the area are Bottomfishing/Trolling Combo guided by Jason, Fishing Special - 26’ C-Hawk guided by Jordan, and Wrightsville Beach Kid's Trip guided by Jason.

Our guides in Wrightsville Beach are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are 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.

Looking for kid friendly nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Wrightsville Beach? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Wrightsville Beach.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Wrightsville Beach?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore fishing are: 1. spanish mackerel, 2. redfish, 3. kingfish, 4. bonito, and 5. cobia.

The most common fishing techniques in Wrightsville Beach are trolling, light tackle fishing, and live bait fishing but bottom fishing and artificial lure fishing are popular as well.

How much do Wrightsville Beach nearshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,080, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach is $577. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach is $914.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach is summer, and most anglers book their trips 14 days in advance.

Do I need a Wrightsville Beach fishing license and what are the bag limits in Wrightsville Beach?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Wrightsville Beach, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Wrightsville Beach. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Wrightsville Beach.

What is nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach all about?

Nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers anglers a rewarding experience with a variety of fish species accessible from the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Situated near the Cape Fear River Inlet, Wrightsville Beach provides ample opportunities for anglers to target both inshore and nearshore species year-round. One of the primary attractions for nearshore anglers is the chance to catch Spanish mackerel, which are abundant in the area during the warmer months. These fast-swimming fish are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, making them a favorite among anglers using trolling techniques with lures or live bait.

Flounder fishing is also popular near Wrightsville Beach, particularly around sandy bottoms, inlet mouths, and nearshore reefs. These flatfish are prized for their delicate flavor and are often targeted using techniques such as drifting or bottom fishing with live bait such as mud minnows or small fish. Flounder are known for their ambush-style feeding behavior, which requires anglers to present baits close to the bottom where these fish lie in wait for passing prey.

During certain seasons, nearshore anglers in Wrightsville Beach can also target species like red drum (redfish) and speckled trout. These inshore favorites can often be found near marsh edges, oyster beds, and around structures such as docks and jetties close to shore. Anglers typically use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs, to entice these prized game fish. Wrightsville Beach's proximity to diverse habitats and productive fishing grounds makes it a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of nearshore fishing opportunities along the North Carolina coast.

What are the most popular months to go nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach?

Nearshore fishing seasons in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, vary throughout the year, offering anglers diverse opportunities to target different fish species in the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Spring marks the beginning of prime fishing season in Wrightsville Beach's nearshore waters. As temperatures rise and marine life becomes more active, species such as Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and flounder migrate closer to shore in search of food and spawning grounds. Anglers often find success targeting these fish around nearshore reefs, inlets, and along the surf using techniques such as trolling with live bait or artificial lures.

Summer brings warmer waters and continued fishing opportunities in Wrightsville Beach. This season is particularly known for its abundance of pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel and king mackerel. These fast-swimming predators are attracted to the Gulf Stream's nutrient-rich waters and can be found near offshore reefs, ledges, and along current breaks. Anglers often use trolling techniques with fast-moving lures or live baitfish to entice these species, which provide exhilarating fights and a rewarding catch for those exploring deeper waters near Wrightsville Beach.

Fall offers another peak season for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach, characterized by cooler temperatures and the migration of various fish species. Species like red drum (redfish), speckled trout, and black drum become more active as they move into shallower waters and estuaries. Anglers target these fish around marsh edges, oyster beds, and near structures such as docks and jetties close to shore. The pleasant weather conditions and diverse fishing opportunities make fall a favorite season among anglers looking to enjoy extended fishing trips and memorable experiences on the water near Wrightsville Beach before winter sets in.

What techniques are popular for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach?

Nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers anglers a variety of types and techniques suited to the area's diverse marine habitats and fish species. One popular method is trolling, which involves trailing baited lines or lures behind a moving boat to target pelagic species such as Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and mahi-mahi. Anglers adjust trolling speeds and depths to mimic the movements of baitfish and attract these fast-swimming predators. Trolling is effective near offshore reefs, artificial structures, and along current breaks where pelagic fish are known to congregate.

Another productive technique for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach is bottom fishing. Anglers use this method to target bottom-dwelling species such as flounder, grouper, and black sea bass. Bottom fishing involves dropping baited hooks or jigs on the ocean floor around reefs, wrecks, and underwater structures where these fish gather. Live bait such as shrimp, squid, or small fish is commonly used to entice bites from these species, which are known for their strong fights and excellent table fare.

In addition to trolling and bottom fishing, sight casting is a popular technique for anglers targeting species like red drum (redfish) and speckled trout in Wrightsville Beach's shallow waters and estuaries. Sight casting requires anglers to actively scan the water's surface or structure-rich areas for fish and then present baits or lures directly to them. Anglers use live baitfish, artificial jigs, or topwater plugs to entice these sight-dependent fish species, which are known for their strong fights and challenging catches. Sight casting combines the thrill of hunting with the skills of precise casting, making it a rewarding and exciting method for anglers of all skill levels in Wrightsville Beach.

What species are popular for nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach?

Nearshore fishing in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers anglers a rich diversity of fish species to target throughout the year, each providing unique challenges and rewards. One of the most prized species for anglers is the red drum, also known as redfish. These powerful and hard-fighting fish are commonly found near marsh edges, oyster beds, and structure-rich areas such as docks and jetties close to shore. Anglers typically use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs, to entice red drums. They are known for their robust strikes and strong runs, making them a favorite among both recreational and sport fishermen in Wrightsville Beach.

Flounder fishing is another popular pursuit in Wrightsville Beach's nearshore waters. These flatfish are highly prized for their delicate flavor and are often targeted around sandy bottoms, inlet mouths, and nearshore reefs. Anglers use techniques such as drifting or bottom fishing with live bait such as mud minnows or small fish to entice flounder. Flounder are known for their ambush-style feeding behavior, which requires anglers to present baits close to the bottom where these fish lie in wait for passing prey.

During certain seasons, anglers in Wrightsville Beach can also target other popular species, such as speckled trout and sheepshead. Speckled trout are prized for their tasty flesh and are often found near marsh edges, grassy flats, and around oyster beds. Anglers typically use live shrimp, mullet, or artificial lures like soft plastics to entice speckled trout. Sheepshead, on the other hand, are known for their strong teeth and are commonly found around pilings, docks, and rocky structures where they feed on crustaceans and mollusks. Anglers use small hooks with fiddler crabs, shrimp, or barnacles as bait to target sheepshead, providing a challenging yet rewarding fishing experience in Wrightsville Beach's nearshore waters.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fantastic time. Caught lots of fish and enjoyed talking to Jason. He put us on fish immediately and moved to another location if the fish stopped biting. Never had time to eat the snacks we brought. Will book with Jason the next time we go fishing

    Gregory W. | October 4, 2024

    Trip: Bottomfishing/Trolling Combo

  • ★★★★★
    Chuck is an awesome guide, captain and fisherman! He is personable, friendly and patient. Thanks for a wonderful afternoon. We hope to be back next year!

    Rowena A. | September 1, 2024

    Trip: Nearshore Sportfish Roundup

  • ★★★★★
    Had an absolutely amazing day with Captain Jamie. He's incredibly knowledgable about fishing and the area and super personable. The fish were a little slow to bite at first but Jamie went above and beyond to try different spots he knows and put us on some fish. The mackerel started biting and we ended with the day with a full cooler! All of us were new to fishing and he was very good with beginners and answered all of our questions. Couldn't recommend a day with him strong enough!

    Alexander A. | June 14, 2024

    Trip: Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great half-day trip fishing with Capt Jamie near Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. We caught a few fish and learned a lot about the fishery and habitat. Knowledgeable and patient captain. Saw some dolphins, too.

    Tom D. | May 26, 2024

    Trip: Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Caught 30 fish in about 3 hours. Captain Joe was phenomenal.

    Jason M. | May 26, 2024

    Trip: NC Sportfish Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Great day with Cap. Joe super friendly guy, very knowledgeable and we caught fish left and right. Highly recommend him and we'll definitely book with him again next time.

    Luis G. | May 2, 2024

    Trip: NC Sportfish Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    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. | November 12, 2023

    Trip: Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

  • ★★★★★
    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. | September 29, 2023

    Trip: Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

  • ★★★★★
    Jordan was a great captain! By gosh, by dern, he was going to find some fish for us. Nearly defeated, he found a spot at the end of our trip. He was kind enough to let us fish a bit longer than scheduled so we could pull in a few. Thank you!

    Macy C. | August 14, 2023

    Trip: Fishing Special - 26’ C-Hawk

  • ★★★★★
    I enjoyed the trip and would like to go back out for grouper and mahi

    Leanna S. | July 31, 2023

    Trip: Fishing Special - 26’ C-Hawk

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Captain Chuck was terrific and really worked hard to ensure our 10 yo grandson had ax great time and even got him some fish. Highly recommended.

    James D. | July 30, 2023

    Trip: Nearshore Sportfish Roundup

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dave was amazing! We went to a few different spots and caught a good bit of fish. Youre guaranteed to have a great time out there!

    Adri P. | July 20, 2023

    Trip: Wilmington Mixed Bag

  • ★★★★★
    Great time! Can't wait to go back.

    Kyle G. | June 30, 2023

    Trip: Exciting Nearshore Half Day

  • ★★★★★
    Captain G is the man! We had a blast on our trip chasing reds on soft plastics and fly inshore, hammering flounder at G's secret spot, loading up on Spanish Mackerel at the jetties, running the beaches for cobia and catching bluefish and a 6' Blacktip Shark, and then running a few miles off to try our luck on some amberjack. This trip was a wild nonstop adventure and I came away amazed at the variety of fishing opportunities Captain G can line up at the drop of a hat. There was never a dull moment and G's setup is perfect for skinny water, zipping down the coast, and fishing open water offshore. His gear is top of the line and he was super quick to re-rig tackle when needed so we were keeping lines wet. 10/10 and can't wait to fish with G again sometime soon. -Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. | June 15, 2023

    Trip: Nearshore Trolling & Bottomfishing

  • ★★★★★
    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. | June 8, 2023

    Trip: NC Sportfish Adventure

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