Bottom Fishing for Snapper & Grouper Near Shore
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private bottom fishing charter targets snapper, grouper, and black sea bassSix to twelve hour trips include all bait, tackle, and fishing licensesAccommodates up to six guests of any experience level
You'll spend 6 to 12 hours working Carolina Beach's most productive bottom structure, where snapper, grouper, and black sea bass stack up in good numbers. This private charter keeps things simple and effective – we head straight to the reefs where these fish live, drop our lines, and let the action speak for itself. With all your tackle, bait, and licenses sorted out, you can focus on what matters: putting fish in the cooler and having a solid day on the water.
Your captain knows exactly where to find Carolina Beach's hottest bottom spots, from shallow inshore reefs to deeper nearshore structure that holds bigger fish. We'll motor out from the dock and set up over productive hard bottom, ledges, and artificial reefs that consistently produce quality catches. The boat accommodates up to 6 anglers comfortably, so whether you're bringing the family or a group of fishing buddies, everyone gets plenty of elbow room to work their lines. These trips run anywhere from a half-day 6-hour session to a full 12-hour marathon, depending on how serious you want to get about filling the fish box. The longer trips give you more time to work different spots and really dial in on what's biting best.
Bottom fishing around Carolina Beach is all about getting your bait down to where the fish are holding and keeping it there. We use heavy sinkers to punch through the current and get down fast, rigged with circle hooks that help ensure solid hooksets on these structure-loving species. Your captain will have you fishing with cut bait, squid, and other proven bottom baits that snapper, grouper, and sea bass can't resist. The key is feeling for that bottom contact, then reeling up just a turn or two to keep your bait in the strike zone without getting hung up in the rocks. When a fish picks up your bait, you'll feel that distinctive thump-thump before the rod loads up. These species don't mess around – they hit hard and head straight back to the structure, so be ready to put some muscle into it and turn them before they cut you off on the rocks.
Red snapper are the crown jewel of Carolina Beach bottom fishing, with their bright red coloration and excellent table fare making them a top target for local anglers. These fish typically run 2-8 pounds in our waters, though bigger specimens show up regularly on the deeper reefs. Snapper are structure-oriented fish that hold tight to hard bottom areas, feeding on small baitfish, crabs, and shrimp. They're most active during warmer months from late spring through early fall, and they put up a solid fight with quick bursts of energy that'll test your drag system. What makes snapper so popular isn't just their fighting ability – they're absolutely phenomenal eating, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or frying.
Grouper fishing around Carolina Beach targets several species, with gag grouper being the most common in our inshore and nearshore waters. These fish are ambush predators that lurk in caves, under ledges, and around structure waiting for an easy meal to swim by. Grouper can range from keeper-sized fish around 20 inches up to real monsters pushing 30+ pounds on the offshore reefs. They're notorious for their initial run straight back to the rocks when hooked, so you need to be ready to put serious pressure on them from the start. The fight is usually short but intense – grouper rely on brute strength rather than speed. When you do get one to the surface, you'll understand why they're such a prized catch. The meat is incredibly firm and flaky, making grouper one of the best eating fish in our waters.
Black sea bass are the workhorses of Carolina Beach bottom fishing, providing consistent action throughout most of the year. These fish typically run 1-3 pounds, though larger specimens show up regularly. Sea bass are curious fish that will often hit artificial lures as well as cut bait, making them perfect for anglers who want steady action while waiting for larger snapper and grouper to bite. They school up around structure and can provide non-stop fishing when you find a good concentration. While they may not be the biggest fish you'll catch, black sea bass are excellent table fare with sweet, mild meat that's perfect for fish tacos or a simple pan-fry. They're also one of the most reliable species in our waters, making them perfect for families with young anglers who want to see some consistent rod-bending action.
Carolina Beach's bottom fishing scene delivers year-round action, but the warmer months really turn on the bite for snapper, grouper, and sea bass. This private charter gives you the flexibility to target these species without dealing with crowded party boats or rushed fishing schedules. With all your gear, bait, and licenses included, you just need to show up ready to fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to put some quality fish in the freezer or a beginner wanting to learn proper bottom fishing techniques, this trip delivers the goods. Book your dates early, especially during peak season – Carolina Beach's reputation for world-class bottom fishing means the best charter dates fill up fast.
This beautifully restored 40' Jersey Sportfishing boat is your ticket to some serious bottom fishing action off Carolina Beach. Twin 375HP Caterpillar engines push this rig at a steady 23 knots, getting you to those productive inshore reefs where the snapper, grouper, and black sea bass are hanging out. The flybridge gives your captain a perfect vantage point to spot structure and navigate to the hottest fishing spots. Down below, you'll find air conditioning to beat the Carolina heat, a full kitchen and refrigerator for storing your catch, plus a comfortable bed and head for longer trips. The fish finder and GPS ensure you're always over productive bottom, while the icebox keeps your drinks cold between hookups. With room for up to 6 anglers, this boat has everything you need for a productive day targeting bottom dwellers in Carolina waters.
Carolina Beach