Half Day Near Shore Charter | Sneads Ferry
Private Trip
Shore Fishing
Fourhour nearshore charter targeting multiple fish species offshoreAccommodates up to six guests with experienced crew supportConsistent fishing action within five miles of Sneads Ferry
When you're looking for consistent action without burning a full day on the water, this 4-hour near shore charter out of Sneads Ferry hits the sweet spot. We'll run you up to 5 miles offshore where the fish are hungry and the bite stays steady. This isn't about chasing one trophy fish all day – it's about putting you on productive water where you'll actually catch fish. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, and they're not shy about sharing what's working when you need a pointer or two.
This trip is all about variety and action. We're targeting the kind of mixed bag that keeps your rod bent and your cooler filling up – Sea bass, Grunt, Porgy, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and when conditions are right, some King Mackerel that'll test your drag. The beauty of near shore fishing around Sneads Ferry is that you're not dealing with the big swells and long runs of deep water trips, but you're still getting into fish that fight hard and taste great on the dinner table. Perfect for groups of up to 6 anglers who want to actually fish instead of just riding around hoping for a bite. We keep it hands-on – you're doing the fishing, we're making sure you're doing it right.
We'll have you rigged up with everything you need to get on the fish fast. For the bottom species like Sea bass and Grunt, we're talking standard bottom rigs with circle hooks and enough weight to stay put in the current. When the Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish are running, we'll switch you over to lighter tackle with wire leaders – these guys have teeth that'll cut through mono like butter. King Mackerel fishing means trolling or live bait fishing, depending on what they're showing us that day. Our tackle is maintained and ready to go, but if you've got your own setup and know how to use it, bring it along. The key out here is reading the water and adjusting as conditions change – that's where our local knowledge pays off for you.
King Mackerel are the headliners when they show up. These fish run anywhere from 15 to 40+ pounds in our waters, and they'll make runs that'll have your reel screaming. Best action typically runs from late spring through fall, and they're absolute fighters that make great table fare when handled right. We find them around structure and temperature breaks, and when they're feeding, you'll know it.
Black Sea Bass are the bread and butter of near shore fishing around here. They hang tight to bottom structure and rarely disappoint when you put a bait in front of them. Most of what we're catching runs 12 to 18 inches, perfect eating size, and they're aggressive enough that even newer anglers can get in on the action. They're year-round residents, but spring through fall gives you the most consistent bite.
Spanish Mackerel bring the speed and excitement to this fishery. These fish are fast, fight hard for their size, and when they're schooled up, you can catch them as fast as you can get a line in the water. They typically run 1 to 3 pounds in our area, and they're some of the best eating fish in the ocean when they're fresh. Peak season runs summer into early fall, and they love structure and current edges.
Bluefish are the cleanup crew – they'll hit just about anything you throw at them and fight like fish twice their size. The ones we catch near shore typically run 2 to 8 pounds, and they're known for their aggressive strikes and hard runs. They show up in schools, and when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're around most of the year but really turn on during their fall migration.
Scup, also known as Porgy, are underrated fish that provide steady action when other species are being finicky. They're bottom dwellers that rarely refuse a well-presented bait, and they're excellent eating despite not being the flashiest catch. Most run 8 to 14 inches, and they're perfect for filling out your cooler when the bigger fish aren't cooperating.
This half-day charter gives you everything you want from a fishing trip without the commitment of a full day on the water. You're getting proven local knowledge, well-maintained gear, and access to productive near shore waters that consistently produce fish. Whether you're a group of experienced anglers or folks just looking to get out and catch some fish, this trip delivers the goods. Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure your dates work before you book. The fishing around Sneads Ferry is as good as it gets for near shore action, and we're ready to put you on the fish. Give us a call and let's get your trip on the books.
Our 31' Luhrs is built for serious nearshore fishing out of Sneads Ferry. This restored 1994 classic runs on twin 340HP Yanmar diesels that cruise at 25 knots, getting you to productive waters fast. With space for up to 6 anglers, she's equipped with a fishing tower for spotting schools, outriggers for trolling runs, and a large livewell to keep your catch fresh. The climate-controlled cabin offers real comfort between fishing sessions - full kitchen, fridge, shower, and toilet mean you can stay out longer. High-tech fish finder and radar help locate fish and navigate safely, while Starlink WiFi keeps you connected. The smart TV provides entertainment during slower periods. Perfect for targeting seabass, grunt, porgy, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and kings up to 5 miles offshore. Whether you're trolling for kings or bottom fishing structure, this boat handles it all with power and comfort that lets you focus on what matters - putting fish in the cooler.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are the bottom-dwelling bulldogs that love structure and put up a solid scrap until they hit the surface. These chunky, dark fish typically run 1-4 pounds around our nearshore wrecks, rocks, and hard bottom in 20-120 feet. Late spring through summer is prime time when they're shallow and aggressive. What makes them special is their unique biology - they start as females and change to males as they grow, with the big males developing a distinctive hump. Great table fare and perfect for beginners since they're cooperative biters. Use squid or cut bait on a simple bottom rig, but here's the key: once you hook up, keep steady pressure and get them up quickly. Give them time to think and they'll duck back into the structure and cut you off.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBlues are aggressive fighters that'll give you a workout on every hookup. These blue-green predators with razor teeth typically weigh 3-20 pounds and travel in schools, feeding with such intensity they'll attack long after they're full. Find them around baitfish schools, structure, or working birds in 10-80 feet of water. Summer brings the best action, with smaller "snapper blues" perfect for kids in the shallows. Guests love the hard fighting and the way they bend rods, plus properly prepared blues make excellent table fare. Just watch those teeth when handling them. Pro tip: when you locate a feeding school, work the edges first. Charging right into the middle will scatter them, but picking off fish from the outside keeps the school active longer.
Scomberomorus CavallaKings are the heavyweight speedsters of our nearshore waters, averaging 30 pounds but capable of hitting 90+. These olive-backed bruisers with razor-sharp teeth cruise depths from 40-150 feet, hunting schools of baitfish with serious attitude. Summer through fall brings the best action when water temps hit that sweet spot of 68-84°F. What makes kings special? Pure adrenaline - they'll scream line off your reel faster than almost any fish out here. The meat's rich and oily, perfect for the grill or smoker. Pro tip: always use a wire leader and rig two hooks on live bait - kings love to attack from behind, so that trailing treble hook will save you from a lot of heartbreak when they bite short.
Stenotomus ChrysopsScup, also called porgy, are the reliable workhorses of our nearshore trips. These silvery, deep-bodied fish typically run 12-18 inches and make excellent table fare. You'll find them around rocky structure and hard bottom in 20-60 feet, using those strong jaws to crush shells and crabs. May through October is prime time when they move inshore with the warm water. Guests love them because they're scrappy fighters that bend the rod, plus they're some of the best eating fish we catch. Simple bottom rigs with squid or clam work great, but here's a local trick: when you feel that first tap, don't set the hook immediately. Let them mouth it for a second - scup are notorious bait stealers, so patience pays off.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are the perfect nearshore target - fast, fun, and fantastic on the table. These sleek silver fish with bright yellow spots typically run 1-2 feet and 8-11 pounds, traveling in large schools that can stretch for miles. Look for them in the top 20 feet of water around structure or feeding on baitfish schools. Spring through fall offers the best action, especially when water warms up and they move closer to shore. What guests love is the nonstop action once you find a school, plus the fight these speedsters put up. The mild, flaky meat grills beautifully too. Local tip: when you see birds working, get there fast but drift into position quietly. Boat noise will spook the whole school, and you'll watch your fish disappear.
Sneads Ferry, NC, United States