Nearshore/Offshore Fishing Trip in North Carolina
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target grouper, black seabass, triggerfish, and cobia on wrecksOffshore options include mahi, tuna, and wahoo fishingFly fishing available around debris and weed lines
North Carolina's waters offer some of the most diverse fishing opportunities on the East Coast, and Drum Roll Fishing Charters knows exactly where to find the action. Whether you're looking to drop bottom rigs on productive reefs or chase pelagics in the blue water, this trip delivers variety that keeps every angler engaged. With a maximum of 4 guests, you'll get personalized attention from experienced captains who live and breathe these waters year-round. From nearshore structure fishing to offshore adventures targeting trophy species, this charter adapts to conditions and your crew's preferences to maximize your time on the water.
Your day starts with a conversation about what's biting and where the fish are holding. The beauty of this charter lies in its flexibility – you might begin working nearshore reefs for grouper and sea bass, then transition to deeper wrecks where cobia and amberjack patrol. If conditions are right and the crew is up for it, you'll head to the blue water where mahi, tuna, and wahoo roam. The captain reads the water, weather, and fish activity to put you on the best bite of the day. Don't be surprised if fly rods come out when you encounter debris lines or weed patches – sight fishing with flies adds an entirely different dimension to offshore angling. Each trip is unique, but one thing remains constant: you'll work water that produces fish.
Bottom fishing around North Carolina means heavy tackle and serious structure. You'll use conventional reels spooled with braided line to feel every tap and maintain contact in current. Circle hooks and fish-finder rigs are standard for grouper and sea bass, while live bait and jigs work magic on amberjack and cobia around wrecks. When targeting pelagics offshore, the approach shifts to trolling spreads with ballyhoo, cedar plugs, and diving lures that cover water efficiently. The real excitement comes when fly rods enter the picture – stripping streamers and poppers to visible fish around floating debris tests your skills in ways conventional tackle never could. The boat carries quality gear, but serious anglers often bring their own rods tuned for specific techniques.
Black grouper represent the heavyweight champions of North Carolina's reef systems. These powerful bottom dwellers inhabit rocky structure and artificial reefs in 60 to 200 feet of water, with peak action typically running from late spring through early fall. What makes grouper so appealing is their aggressive strike and bulldogging fight – they'll try to cut you off in the rocks the moment they feel steel. Most fish range from 3 to 15 pounds, though larger specimens always lurk around prime structure. The key to consistent grouper success is fresh bait presented right on the bottom near ledges and drop-offs where they ambush prey.
Black sea bass might be smaller than grouper, but they make up for size with numbers and attitude. These feisty reef fish are incredibly abundant around North Carolina's artificial reefs and natural bottom, especially during summer months when they move inshore to spawn. Sea bass between 1 and 3 pounds are common, with occasional jumbo fish pushing 5 pounds or more. They're aggressive biters that respond well to both cut bait and small jigs, making them perfect for anglers who want steady action. The limit allows for a good harvest, and sea bass are among the finest eating fish in the ocean – firm, white meat with a sweet flavor that's hard to beat.
This top-rated charter combines the best of nearshore and offshore fishing in waters that consistently produce quality fish. With only 4 spots available per trip, you'll enjoy personalized instruction and prime fishing positions without crowded rails. The flexibility to target everything from reef fish to pelagics means every trip offers something different, whether you're a bottom fishing enthusiast or someone who dreams of sight-casting flies to mahi around debris lines. Drum Roll Fishing Charters has built a reputation on putting clients on fish while sharing knowledge that makes you a better angler. North Carolina's fishing seasons are short and weather windows can be unpredictable, so securing your dates early ensures you don't miss out on world-class fishing opportunities that visiting anglers rave about year after year.
This 2004 Contender center console got a complete makeover in 2019 and she's ready to put you on the fish off North Carolina's coast. With a 300 HP Suzuki pushing her to 42 knots, we'll get you out to the productive waters fast. She's rigged for serious fishing with a fish finder to mark bottom structure and schools, GPS to hit those honey holes, and radar for when the weather gets sketchy. The icebox keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold during those long days chasing mahi and tuna. Whether we're dropping down for grouper and black seabass on the reefs, working the wrecks for cobia and amberjack, or running offshore for pelagic action, this boat handles it all. She comfortably fishes up to 4 anglers with plenty of room to work the rods. Perfect for bottom fishing, trolling, or even breaking out the fly gear when we find debris lines holding fish. This Contender knows these waters and will get you into the action.
Mycteroperca BonaciBlack grouper are the heavyweights of our nearshore wrecks, averaging 15-30 pounds with occasional monsters pushing 50+. These olive-gray bruisers with dark blotches hang around structure in 60-200 feet, preferring rocky bottoms and artificial reefs. Spring through fall offers the best action when they're actively feeding. What makes them special? Pure brute strength - once hooked, they'll head straight for the rocks to cut your line. The meat is outstanding too, with firm white fillets that taste amazing grilled. My go-to trick: use heavy tackle (80lb braid minimum) and crank hard the second you feel that thump. Don't give them an inch or they'll wrap you around the nearest piling. These fish don't nibble - they inhale bait whole, so be ready to set the hook fast and muscle them up before they know what hit them.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are the workhorses of our bottom fishing trips, typically running 1-4 pounds with occasional 6+ pounders that'll surprise you. They love hanging around wrecks, rocky ledges, and structure in 30-120 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time when they move inshore to spawn - that's when the big males turn bright blue with a prominent hump on their heads. They're scrappy fighters that'll give you steady runs until they break the surface. The meat is sweet and flaky, perfect for the dinner table. These fish are pretty aggressive feeders, going after squid strips, clams, or small jigs. Pro tip: use a two-hook bottom rig and keep your bait moving slightly off the bottom. They're curious fish that'll often follow your bait up, so don't be surprised if you hook one halfway to the surface.
Greenville