Outer Banks Charter Fishing with Grandpa Charters
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Traditional net trawling for shrimp, crabs, and fishCaptain Russell and Mate Mike provide expert guidanceWildlife viewing opportunities including dolphins during trips
Ready to experience the real deal when it comes to Outer Banks fishing? Captain Russell and Mate Mike at Grandpa Charters aren't just running another tourist boat – they're showing you the traditional way locals have been pulling dinner from these waters for generations. This isn't your typical rod-and-reel charter. We're talking about authentic net trawling for shrimp, crabs, and whatever else decides to swim into our nets. It's hands-on, it's educational, and it's about as genuine as Outer Banks fishing gets. With room for up to 6 anglers, you'll have plenty of space to move around while the nets work their magic.
This top-rated charter takes you beyond the typical fishing experience into the world of commercial-style trawling. Captain Russell runs a tight ship, but the vibe is relaxed and family-friendly. You'll head out into the productive waters off the Outer Banks where the crew drops the nets and starts the trawl. While those nets are doing the heavy lifting, you're free to soak up the scenery, snap photos of the barrier islands, and keep your eyes peeled for the dolphins that love to follow the boat. The real excitement builds when it's time to haul in the nets – that's when you see what the Outer Banks waters have been hiding. Mike keeps everyone engaged during the process, explaining what you're seeing and making sure the kids (and adults) understand what's happening. The whole experience runs about as smooth as you'd expect from a crew that's been working these waters for years.
Forget what you know about fishing lines and waiting for bites. Net trawling is a completely different beast, and it's fascinating to watch pros like Captain Russell and Mike work. The boat drags specially designed nets through the water at specific depths and speeds, targeting areas where shrimp and crabs like to hang out. The nets sweep through the water column, collecting everything in their path. It's not random – there's real skill in knowing where to drop those nets, how fast to trawl, and when to haul them back up. The crew handles all the technical stuff, but they're happy to explain the process and let you get involved when it's safe to do so. You'll learn about different net configurations, why certain areas produce better than others, and how weather and tides affect the whole operation. It's like getting a masterclass in commercial fishing techniques without having to wake up at 3 AM.
The beauty of net trawling in the Outer Banks is you never know exactly what's coming up, but there are definitely seasonal patterns that make certain times of year more productive. Shrimp season runs from mid-June through November, and that's when things get really interesting. These aren't the tiny grocery store shrimp – we're talking about plump, sweet Outer Banks shrimp that taste like the ocean in the best possible way. The crabs show up heavy in May and June, with blue crabs that'll make you forget about any crab you've ever eaten before. But here's the thing about trawling – the nets don't discriminate. You might pull up flounder, spot, croaker, or any number of other species that happen to be in the area. That's part of the charm. Each haul is like opening a present from the ocean. Captain Russell and Mike know these waters like the back of their hands, so they'll position the boat in spots where the variety and quantity tend to be highest.
Blue crabs are the stars of the spring hauls, and for good reason. These feisty crustaceans are abundant in the Outer Banks from May through June when they're moving through the area in large numbers. They're aggressive, meaty, and absolutely delicious. What makes them exciting isn't just the taste – it's watching them come up in the nets, claws snapping, ready for a fight. Kids love the drama, and adults love knowing they're getting some of the best crab on the East Coast. The size varies, but you'll typically see a good mix of keeper-sized crabs that are perfect for steaming.
When shrimp season kicks in from mid-June through November, that's when this charter really shines. Outer Banks shrimp are world-class – sweet, firm, and nothing like what you'll find in most restaurants. They're seasonal migrants, following temperature and food sources, which is why the timing matters so much. During peak season, the nets can come up loaded with shrimp of various sizes. The crew knows how to sort them quickly, and you'll learn the difference between keepers and ones that need to go back. The best part? You get to take your catch home, so you're not just having a great day on the water – you're also stocking up on some of the finest seafood available.
The surprise catches are what make each trip unique. Flounder, spot, croaker, and other bottom fish often end up in the nets, especially when trawling near structure or in areas where baitfish are concentrated. These aren't the target species, but they're welcome additions that add variety to your haul. Flounder are particularly prized – they're excellent table fare and always fun to see come up in the nets. The crew is great about explaining what you're looking at and helping you understand the local ecosystem.
This isn't your average charter fishing experience – it's a chance to learn traditional techniques while enjoying some of the most productive waters on the East Coast. Captain Russell and Mate Mike have built their reputation on delivering authentic, educational trips that work for families and serious fishing enthusiasts alike. The 6-person capacity keeps groups small and personal, so you're not fighting crowds or waiting in line to see what's in the nets. Whether you're planning a family outing, looking to try something different from typical fishing charters, or just want
The "Grandpa" is a seasoned 40-foot Northshore fishing vessel that's been hauling in catches since 1998. This reliable workhorse comes equipped with modern electronics including GPS, radar, and fish finder to help Captain Russell and Mate Mike locate the best fishing spots even when visibility gets sketchy. The boat features outriggers and a fighting chair to handle different fishing techniques, whether you're trolling for big game or working the nets for shrimp and crabs. With space for up to 6 anglers, there's plenty of room to spread out during the trawling process. The radar system keeps you safe in changing weather conditions, while the fish finder helps pinpoint productive waters. During shrimp season from mid-June through November, or crab season in May and June, this sturdy vessel provides a stable platform for traditional net fishing. The crew keeps things lively during haul-ins, and you'll have great views of Outer Banks waters while watching for dolphins between pulls.
Raleigh