About Your Trip
The 3/4 and full day trips are designed to provide optimal mobility, and may run from 1 to 40 miles offshore of Topsail Island. Depending on conditions, we will move to multiple locations such as ledges, reefs, and wrecks. This allows us to chase the widest range of species, such as king mackerel, dolphin (mahi mahi), amberjack, barracuda, and the occasional sailfish.
These trips are primarily trolling with bait and/or lures. The boat is always
moving, which many clients find to be more comfortable than sitting at anchor. We do not currently offer bottom-fishing trips, although in the right conditions we will do some drifts across structure (at the Captain's discretion). This will present some opportunities for jigging or possibly bait dropping.
The boat has an overall length of 30', with a large cockpit with plenty of space for fishing action. The pilot house offers a nice place to take an occasional break from the sun or the weather when needed. We are equipped with all the electronics we need for operation on the open ocean, including VHF radio, GPS navigation, depth finder/sonar, and radar. Our safety equipment meets or exceeds the federal charter boat requirements. As far as a head (restroom), we have "rustic" facilities (over the rail or in a pail).
On all trips we provide all the fishing rods and reels, tackle, and bait. Everyone 16 or older is required to have their own license (Coastal Recreational Fishing Licence - CRFL) which can be purchased online from the NC Wildlife website. Per NC law, folks under 12 must wear a life jacket at all times. We have some smaller life jackets aboard, however in the interest of your comfort, we recommend that you pick one up that provides a good fit and mobility.
You should bring plenty of water as well as other drinks and snacks you would like to have. For the longer trips, it's a good idea to pack something for lunch. The ocean can really take a lot out of you, and you need to be ready to put it back. We are fine with alcohol, so feel free to pack some beer. However, we do ask that you not smoke or vape aboard.
Of course, we also highly recommend packing sunscreen and protective clothing (hats, sunglasses, etc.). That sun can be brutal, especially on our hot, summer days. Seasickness medicine is also a great idea if you aren't sure how your body will react to rolling on the waves. With the over-the-counter medicines, such as Dramamine and Bonine, it's best to take your first dose the night before the trip, and then take another about an hour before departure.
On all of our charters we focus on giving you the best trip possible. While we like to focus on the fish, there's a lot more to enjoy. For example, there's a good bit of history and natural wonder in our area, from pirates to shipwrecks to the geological formation of the beaches and islands. Your Captain grew up here and loves to share, so feel free to ask. And if you've had enough fishing, but there's still time in your trip, we're happy to bring you in early and provide a scenic tour along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Our trips are based out of Hampstead, NC, and our normal pick-up location is by the Sloop Point Boating Access area at 613 Lewis Road. However, for customers staying on Topsail Island (including North Topsail and Surf City), we can save you a trip across the bridge and pick you up at the Soundside Park right there on the island at 517 Roland Avenue, Surf City. If you are fortunate enough to be staying at a place with your own accessible boat dock, we can also pick you up right at your doorstep. Just call ahead and we'll go over the arrangements. Our goal is to make this as easy on you as possible.
What about special accommodations for less-able people? Please call and let's talk it over. We want to make our trips as accessible as possible, but we do have to face certain realities on a small vessel such as physical space and occasionally rough seas. The Captain is Red Cross certified in First Aid/CPR, but not a medical professional. If you have any questions about someone's medical readiness to go on a boat or fishing the ocean, please check with your doctor first. Make sure to bring any necessary medications or care equipment with you.
So, that's about it. We look forward to having you aboard. Let's go fishing!
Amenities
Water Type
Deep Sea, Nearshore
Skill Levels
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Tackle
All rods, reels, and tackle are included.
Beer
Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.
Live Bait
Live bait is included for this trip.
Location
This guide can be flexible with the departure location.
Weather
You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.
Federal Permit
This boat is federally permitted to go deep offshore.
Kid Friendly
This trip can cater to kids.
Disability Friendly
This trip can accommodate those with disabilities.
Flexible Cancelation
This trip can be canceled for a refund up to 7 days before the trip.
Fish Cleaning
No cleaning service provided.
Boat Restroom
No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.
Lunch
Please provide your own food / snacks.
