Inshore Trolling Charter for Mahi, Kings & Tuna
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Private trolling charter targeting Mahi Mahi, King Mackerel, and TunaFlexible 312 hour trips with all tackle and licenses includedProfessional crew guides both beginners and experienced anglers
When you're looking for a top-rated Carolina Beach fishing experience that puts you on some of the hottest pelagic species off the North Carolina coast, Gypsy Dawn Charters delivers exactly what serious anglers want. This private trolling charter runs anywhere from 3 to 12 hours, giving you the flexibility to plan the perfect day on the water whether you're after a quick morning bite or want to commit to a full day of chasing fish. The inshore waters off Carolina Beach hold incredible populations of Mahi Mahi, King Mackerel, and Tuna throughout the season, and Captain and crew know exactly where these fish are staging and feeding. You'll head out with everything provided – tackle, bait, licenses, the works – so all you need to bring is your cooler for the fish and your game face.
Your day starts with a quick run from the Carolina Beach dock to the productive inshore waters where the action happens. The crew wastes no time getting you set up, and within minutes of reaching the fishing grounds, you'll have multiple lines in the water working the strike zone. This isn't a crowded head boat situation – with a maximum of 6 anglers, you get personalized attention and plenty of elbow room to fight fish properly. The captain reads the water conditions, bait movements, and temperature breaks to put you on the most active schools of fish. You'll be working proven trolling patterns that have been producing consistent results for both seasoned anglers and first-timers looking to learn the ropes. The crew handles all the technical aspects of line placement, lure selection, and boat positioning while coaching you through the fight when you hook up.
Trolling for pelagic species requires specific techniques and equipment that the Gypsy Dawn crew has dialed in perfectly. You'll be running a spread of lures at various depths and distances behind the boat, covering different zones in the water column where these predatory fish are hunting. The setup typically includes a combination of ballyhoo, cedar plugs, spoons, and diving lures rigged to mimic the baitfish that Mahi, Kings, and Tuna are actively feeding on. The crew adjusts trolling speeds based on conditions and target species – sometimes you're pulling at 6 knots for Kings, other times bumping it up to 8 or 9 knots when the Mahi are aggressive. They'll teach you how to read the rods, recognize different types of strikes, and handle the initial hookset properly. The tackle is heavy enough to handle these hard-fighting fish but balanced so you can actually enjoy the battle without getting completely worn out.
Mahi Mahi are absolute crowd favorites and for good reason – these fish are gorgeous, fight like crazy, and taste amazing on the dinner table. They show up in the Carolina Beach area typically from late spring through early fall, with peak action happening during the summer months when water temperatures are in the upper 70s and low 80s. Mahi are schooling fish, so when you find one, there are usually more around. They're known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked, often jumping multiple times and putting on a show that gets everyone on the boat excited. Most Mahi you'll encounter range from 10 to 30 pounds, though larger bulls over 40 pounds are definitely possible.
King Mackerel are the speed demons of the inshore trolling game, capable of scorching runs that will test your drag system and your nerves. These toothy predators are year-round residents but are most active during the warmer months when they're feeding heavily on Spanish mackerel, menhaden, and other baitfish. Kings are notorious for their initial run – when one hits, it's usually a screaming takeoff that can strip 100 yards of line in seconds. They're also excellent table fare when handled properly, and the crew knows exactly how to care for your catch to ensure premium eating quality. Carolina Beach Kings typically range from 15 to 40 pounds, with the occasional smoker pushing 50 pounds or more.
Tuna fishing off Carolina Beach offers shots at several species depending on the season and conditions. Blackfin Tuna are the most common and provide fantastic sport on appropriate tackle – they're strong, fast, and absolutely delicious. Yellowfin Tuna are less common but much larger and represent the ultimate trophy for many anglers. These fish are pure muscle and will give you a workout that you'll remember long after the trip ends. Tuna are often found around temperature breaks, current edges, and areas where baitfish are concentrated. They can be finicky feeders, requiring precise lure presentation and boat handling to get them to commit to striking.
This Carolina Beach trolling charter with Gypsy Dawn Charters represents one of the best values in the area for private boat fishing. You're getting access to prime fishing grounds, professional equipment, experienced crew, and the flexibility to customize your trip length based on your schedule and fishing goals. Whether you're planning a corporate outing, family fishing trip, or just want to get out there with your fishing buddies, this charter accommodates up to 6 anglers comfortably. The fact that all tackle, bait, and licenses are included means you can focus entirely on fishing instead of worrying about logistics. Book early, especially during peak season, because word is getting out about the consistent results and professional service that keeps customers coming back trip after trip.
Step aboard our fully restored 2024 Jersey Sportfishing vessel for your Carolina Beach trolling adventure. This 40-footer runs on twin 375HP Caterpillar engines, cruising smoothly at 23 knots to get you to the fishing grounds fast. With room for up to 6 anglers, she's equipped with everything needed for a successful day chasing Mahi, Kings, and Tuna in these productive inshore waters. The boat features a flybridge for optimal fish spotting, plus radar and fish finder technology to locate schools and structure. Stay comfortable between hookups with onboard AC, a full kitchen, and cold storage for your catch and refreshments. The multimedia system keeps spirits high during slower periods, while the onboard head and sleeping quarters handle longer 12-hour trips. Whether you're trolling the nearshore reefs for King Mackerel or working the current breaks for Mahi Mahi, this well-appointed sportfisher delivers the stability and speed needed to maximize your time on the water. All tackle, bait, and licenses included.
Carolina Beach