Ready to wet a line in some of North Carolina's most productive waters? Our Oak Island fishing charters put you right in the action, from the surf zone to 10 miles offshore. Whether you're after a cooler full of tasty mackerel or the fight of your life with a monster shark, we've got you covered. No need to fuss with gear or licenses - we provide everything so you can focus on the fun part: catching fish!
Hop aboard our comfortable, well-equipped vessel for a 3 to 5 hour adventure in the rich waters off Oak Island. We'll cruise past scenic shorelines as we hunt for the day's hot spots. Our experienced captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, so you're in for some serious fish-finding action. Beginners, don't sweat it - we'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time. And for you seasoned anglers, get ready to try some local techniques that'll up your game.
We mix it up depending on what's biting and where. Close to shore, we might do some surf casting for bull reds or bluefish. As we push offshore, we'll switch to trolling for kings and Spanish mackerel. Bottom fishing is always an option too, especially if the sea bass are hungry. Our range gives us flexibility - we can hit the nearshore reefs or run out to deeper structure where the bigger fish hang out. The beauty of Oak Island fishing is the variety - one minute you're jigging for flounder, the next you're battling a toothy shark!
Oak Island's waters are teeming with game fish year-round, but here are some of the headliners you might tangle with:
Bluefish: These chompers are pure muscle and attitude. They hit hard and fight dirty, making for some of the most exciting light tackle action around. Look for bluefish busting bait on the surface - it's a sight you won't forget. They're great eating too, especially when smoked.
Black Sea Bass: Don't let their size fool you - these bottom dwellers punch above their weight class. They're structure-loving ambush predators, so we'll drop lines near wrecks and reefs. The meat is white, flaky, and downright delicious. Plus, you can often catch a bunch in short order.
Summer Flounder: Also known as fluke, these flatfish are masters of camouflage. Sight fishing for them in clear shallows is a blast - it's like a underwater Easter egg hunt. They put up a decent scrap and make for some fine table fare. The bigger ones are called "doormats" for a reason!
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes, sheepshead are unmistakable. They're notorious bait stealers, so hooking one takes finesse. But man, are they worth the effort. Their fight is surprisingly strong, and the meat is sweet and firm. Locals call 'em "convict fish" - you'll see why when you catch one.
King Mackerel: When a king skyrockets on your bait, hold on tight! These speedsters can dump a reel in seconds. We typically troll for them, and the strikes are explosive. Kings can top 50 pounds, so bring your A-game. Even smaller "snakes" put up a great fight. Smoked king mackerel dip is a local delicacy you've got to try.
Our Oak Island charters aren't just about filling the cooler (though we do that plenty). It's about soaking in that salty air, watching dolphins play in our wake, and feeling the rush when a big one hits. Maybe you'll spot a sea turtle or hook into something unexpected. Our trips are perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo anglers looking to hone their skills. And there's nothing like swapping fish stories over cold drinks at the marina afterward.
Oak Island's fishing scene is no secret, so don't wait to lock in your date. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, we've got the trip for you. Remember, we provide all the gear, bait, and know-how - you just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe some snacks). So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, and there's a spot on the boat with your name on it. Book your Oak Island fishing charter today and get ready for some serious rod-bending action!
Black sea bass are a blast to catch around Oak Island's rocky structure and wrecks. These feisty fish average 1-3 pounds but can reach 8+ pounds. You'll find them holding tight to bottom structure in 60-120 feet of water from spring through fall. Sea bass are structure-oriented, so look for them around reefs, wrecks, and rock piles. They're aggressive feeders and will readily take cut bait, squid, or small jigs. The fight is impressive for their size - they'll try to dive back into structure. Sea bass make excellent table fare with delicate white meat. For consistent action, use a two-hook bottom rig with squid or cut bait. Drift or anchor over structure and you can often catch a bunch once you find them.
Bluefish are tough fighters that'll give you a run for your money. These aggressive predators typically range from 3-10 pounds but can get up to 20. You'll find them cruising near shore from spring through fall, often in large schools churning up the water as they feed. Bluefish love structure like jetties, sandbars, and rips. They'll hit just about any lure or bait, especially oily fish like menhaden. The bite's usually best early morning or evening. Bluefish put up an exciting fight and make for good eating when prepared right. Just watch those razor-sharp teeth when you're unhooking them! For the best action, try casting metal lures or topwater plugs into feeding frenzies. It's a blast watching them attack on the surface.
King mackerel are prized gamefish that'll test your skills. These speedsters average 10-20 pounds but can top 50. You'll find them in open water from 5-20 miles offshore, often near bait schools or structure. Kings are migratory, showing up in our waters from spring through fall as they follow baitfish. They're known for blistering runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. To target kings, try slow trolling live bait like menhaden or mullet, or use diving plugs. Wire leaders are a must to prevent bite-offs from their razor teeth. Kings make good eating when prepared right, but avoid larger fish due to mercury. For the best action, look for diving birds and surface activity, then troll the edges of bait schools. It's an adrenaline rush when a big king skyrockets on your bait!
Sheepshead are unique-looking fish with human-like teeth perfect for crushing crustaceans. They typically run 2-8 pounds but can reach 20+. You'll find them around barnacle-covered structures like pilings, jetties, and reefs. Sheepshead are notoriously tricky to hook - they're experts at stealing bait. Use small, strong hooks and fresh bait like fiddler crabs, sand fleas, or shrimp. Fish as close to structure as possible, keeping your line vertical. When you feel a bite, set the hook hard. The fight is solid for their size as they try to dive back into structure. Sheepshead make excellent table fare with sweet, white meat. For best results, use light tackle and plenty of patience. It takes practice, but landing these striped "convict fish" is rewarding.
Summer flounder, or fluke, are fun to target in the warmer months. These flat fish typically run 2-5 pounds but can reach over 20. You'll find them in bays, inlets, and nearshore waters, usually in depths under 100 feet. Flounder are ambush predators that lie camouflaged on the bottom waiting to attack passing baitfish. They're most active in summer and early fall as water temps warm up. Flounder put up a decent fight and are excellent eating. To catch them, try drifting or slow trolling with live bait like minnows or strip baits. Work sandy or muddy bottom areas near structure. When you feel that telltale thump, resist the urge to set the hook right away - give them a few seconds to get the bait in their mouth. It takes some practice, but the reward is worth it.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 225