Outer Banks Charter Fishing
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Traditional net trawling for shrimp, crabs, and fishScenic Outer Banks waters with dolphin watching opportunitiesFamily-friendly experience with Captain Russell and Mate Mike
Welcome to one of the most rewarding fishing adventures you'll find along North Carolina's coast. This isn't your typical rod-and-reel charter – we're talking about authentic commercial-style trawling that puts you right in the middle of the action. Captain Russell and Mate Mike have perfected the art of net fishing these waters, and they're ready to show you exactly how the pros haul in massive quantities of shrimp, crabs, and whatever else decides to swim into our nets. With space for up to six anglers, this top-rated experience gives you front-row seats to traditional Outer Banks fishing methods that have been feeding families here for generations.
You're heading out into some of the most productive waters on the East Coast, where the Gulf Stream meets the continental shelf and creates perfect conditions for marine life. The boat ride out gives you time to settle in and take in those famous Outer Banks views – barrier islands stretching as far as you can see, wild horses on the beaches, and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse standing guard over it all. Once we reach the fishing grounds, Captain Russell deploys the trawling nets and the real show begins. This isn't a rushed operation – we take our time working these waters methodically, giving you plenty of chances to spot dolphins riding our wake and seabirds diving for bait schools. The whole crew stays engaged during the hauls, explaining what's happening and making sure everyone gets hands-on experience sorting the catch.
Commercial net trawling is a completely different animal from hook-and-line fishing, and watching it happen up close is something most recreational anglers never get to experience. We deploy large nets behind the boat that sweep through the water column, capturing everything in their path as we cruise at just the right speed. The key is knowing exactly where to drop those nets – Captain Russell has been reading these waters for years and knows which depths, bottom structures, and tidal conditions produce the best hauls. When it's time to bring the nets up, that's when the excitement really kicks in. You never know what's going to spill out onto the deck – could be a massive load of shrimp, a pile of blue crabs, or a mixed bag of fish species that call these waters home. Everyone gets involved in the sorting process, learning to identify different species and understanding why certain areas produce specific types of marine life.
The brown shrimp that populate these waters from mid-June through November are the real stars of the show. These aren't the tiny cocktail shrimp you get at the grocery store – we're talking about jumbo specimens that can reach four to six inches long. They feed heavily at night and tend to bury themselves in the sandy bottom during the day, which is exactly when our trawling techniques shine. The nets sweep right through their hiding spots, bringing up pounds of these sweet, meaty crustaceans that taste incredible when cooked fresh. Blue crabs are the other major target, especially during their peak season in May and June when they're most active and abundant. These feisty crustaceans put up a real fight even after they hit the deck, and sorting them requires some skill to avoid those powerful claws. The mature females, called "sooks," are particularly prized for their rich meat and bright orange roe. Captain Russell teaches guests how to identify the different sexes and sizes, plus shares insider tips about the best cooking methods for maximum flavor.
This world-class fishing adventure sells out regularly during peak shrimp and crab seasons, so don't wait too long to secure your dates. Grandpa Charters has built a reputation as the customer favorite for authentic Outer Banks trawling experiences, and once you spend a day learning these traditional techniques while surrounded by some of the most beautiful coastal scenery on the East Coast, you'll understand why people keep coming back year after year. Whether you're planning a family outing, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to try something completely different from typical charter fishing, this trip delivers memories that last a lifetime. The combination of hands-on learning, stunning wildlife viewing opportunities, and the chance to take home a cooler full of fresh seafood makes this one of the best fishing values you'll find anywhere. Contact Grandpa Charters today to check availability and book your Outer Banks trawling adventure – Captain Russell and Mate Mike are standing by to show you why net fishing is such an addictive way to experience these legendary waters.
Meet the "Grandpa" – a reliable 40-foot Northshore that's been working these Outer Banks waters since 1998. This proven fishing machine comes loaded with GPS, radar, and fish finder to put you on the fish, plus outriggers and a fighting chair for serious angling action. With room for up to 6 anglers, she's perfect for your crew to experience Captain Russell and Mate Mike's shrimp trawling adventures. Watch the nets come up full of shrimp, crabs, and whatever else the Atlantic serves up while dolphins play in your wake. The electronics keep you safe and on target, whether you're chasing shrimp from June through November or going after crabs in the prime May-June season. This weathered workhorse has seen countless trips and continues delivering solid fishing experiences in these rich Carolina waters.
Raleigh