Half Day Shark Fishing Trip in Calabash NC
Private Trip
Shore Fishing
Fourhour shark and barracuda fishing adventure off Calabash coastMorning or afternoon departure options with experienced captain guidanceSmall group experience limited to four guests maximum
Ready to tangle with some serious Atlantic predators? This 4-hour shark and barracuda fishing trip puts you face-to-face with North Carolina's most exciting inshore fighters. Captain Shad's knows exactly where these apex predators cruise the waters around Calabash, and we'll get you hooked up with the kind of action that keeps anglers coming back season after season. With morning and afternoon departures available, you'll have plenty of flexibility to fit this top-rated adventure into your coastal getaway. Just bring your game face and get ready to feel that rod bend when a shark decides your bait looks like dinner.
This isn't your typical bottom fishing trip – we're targeting the ocean's apex predators in their natural hunting grounds off Calabash. Captain Shad runs a tight ship with space for just 4 anglers, which means personalized attention and plenty of elbow room when the action heats up. We'll head out to proven shark zones where the water temperature and structure create perfect ambush points for Atlantic Sharpnose and Blacktip sharks. The 4-hour window gives us enough time to hit multiple spots and adjust tactics based on what the fish are telling us. Don't worry if you're new to shark fishing – our crew will walk you through everything from bait presentation to proper fighting techniques. The intimate group size means everyone gets hands-on coaching and multiple shots at these powerful fish.
Shark fishing requires serious gear, and Captain Shad's boat comes equipped with heavy-action rods and reels that can handle the punishment these fish dish out. We're talking circle hooks, wire leaders, and drag systems built to wear down a 100-pound predator without breaking your back. Our go-to technique involves deploying multiple lines with fresh cut bait – think chunks of bluefish, mackerel, or whatever's running that day. The key is getting that scent trail in the water and letting the sharks come to us. We'll set up a proper chum slick to draw them in close, then it's all about patience and being ready when that rod tip starts dancing. The boat's positioned to handle multiple hookups, and our crew knows how to manage lines when things get chaotic. Circle hooks are mandatory for shark conservation – they hook cleanly and make releases much safer for both angler and fish.
The Atlantic Sharpnose Shark might be the smaller of our target species, but don't let that fool you – these 2-3 foot fighters pack serious attitude. They're year-round residents in our waters, but really turn on during the warmer months when they move into the shallows to feed. Sharpnose sharks are perfect for beginners because they fight hard without being overwhelming, and their smaller size means quicker battles that leave you ready for the next hookup. What makes them special is their aggressive feeding behavior – they'll often compete with each other for bait, leading to double and triple hookups that'll have your group scrambling for cameras. Plus, they're absolutely beautiful fish with that classic shark profile and distinctive pointed snout that photographs perfectly before release.
Blacktip Sharks are the heavyweight champions of this trip, and when one grabs your bait, you'll know it immediately. These 4-6 foot powerhouses are famous for their aerial displays – yes, sharks can jump, and Blacktips do it better than most. They're seasonal visitors to our area, showing up in spring and staying through fall when the water temperature hits their sweet spot. What sets Blacktip fishing apart is the visual element – you'll often see them cruising near the surface before they strike, and that dorsal fin cutting through the water never gets old. The fight is intense but manageable with proper technique, featuring long runs and that signature jumping behavior that makes for epic photos. They're also incredibly important to the ecosystem, making proper catch-and-release techniques crucial for maintaining healthy shark populations.
Captain Shad's Half Day Shark Fishing Trip delivers exactly what serious anglers want – consistent action, expert guidance, and the chance to battle some of the Atlantic's most respected predators. The 4-person limit ensures everyone gets premium attention and multiple opportunities to hook up. Whether you choose morning or afternoon, you're getting access to prime shark habitat with a captain who knows these waters like his backyard. This isn't just another fishing trip – it's your chance to experience the raw power of Atlantic sharks while learning proper techniques from seasoned professionals. The memories you'll make battling these apex predators will last long after your vacation ends. Don't wait to secure your spot – prime shark fishing dates fill up fast, especially during peak season when these magnificent fish are most active.
You'll be fishing from our reliable 23' Triton Seahunt center console, powered by a 150HP Yamaha that cuts through Carolina waters with ease. This 2001 boat hits speeds up to 45 knots, getting you to the shark grounds quickly so you can maximize your fishing time. The center console design gives everyone plenty of room to move around when fighting these Atlantic predators. The boat's fish finder helps us locate schools of bait fish where sharks love to hunt, while the GPS keeps us on the most productive spots off Calabash. When visibility drops or weather rolls in, our radar keeps you safe on the water. The VHF radio maintains contact with other fishing boats and marine services. An onboard icebox keeps your drinks cold and stores any fish you want to take home. Up to four anglers can fish comfortably from this setup, with enough space to handle multiple hookups when the sharks are really biting.
Rhizoprionodon TerraenovaeThese little sharks are perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting steady action. Running 2-4 feet and rarely over 9 pounds, they're small but scrappy fighters that'll give you a good tussle on lighter tackle. You'll find them year-round in our shallow coastal waters, especially around surf zones and inlet mouths. They're not picky eaters - cut bait, live shrimp, or small fish will draw strikes. What makes them fun is their aggressive nature and willingness to hit almost anything you put down. The meat's actually pretty tasty if you decide to keep a few. Pro tip: use a small circle hook and don't set it hard - let them run with the bait for a few seconds before reeling tight. Their small mouths make them easy to lose if you're too quick on the hookset.
Carcharhinus LimbatusBlacktips are the acrobats of shark fishing - these guys will jump clean out of the water when hooked, sometimes 6 feet high! They average 4-5 feet but can push 9 feet in our waters. You'll find them over sandy bottoms and around structure in 30-100 feet, particularly near artificial reefs where baitfish congregate. Spring through fall gives you the best shot when they're feeding heavy in warmer water. What guests love is their explosive fight and aerial show - it's pure entertainment watching one cartwheel through the air. They're also excellent table fare with firm, white meat. Key tip: bring heavy tackle (30-50 lb test) and circle hooks because they'll test your drag system. Once you get one jumping, keep steady pressure but don't horse them - let them tire themselves out with those spectacular leaps.
Calabash