Family Bluefish & Redfish Trip in Wilmington
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Halfday family fishing trip targeting bluefish, redfish, and mackerelCaptain Jon provides patient guidance for kids and adults alikeExplores beaches, wrecks, and ICW with maximum three guests aboard
There's nothing quite like watching your kids light up when they hook their first fish, and Captain Jon knows exactly how to make that magic happen. This top-rated half-day charter combines the best of Wilmington's inshore waters with a captain who genuinely loves teaching families the ropes. You'll spend four solid hours targeting some of North Carolina's most cooperative species - Bluefish, Spanish Mackerel, and Redfish - while cruising between scenic spots that keep everyone engaged. Whether your crew includes seasoned anglers or complete beginners, Jon's patient approach and deep local knowledge create the perfect environment for building confidence on the water.
This isn't your typical "park and fish" charter. Captain Jon keeps things interesting by moving between three distinct fishing environments throughout your trip. You'll start by working the near-shore wrecks where structure-loving fish congregate, then cruise along Wilmington's beautiful coastline for some beach fishing action, and finish up exploring productive spots along the Intracoastal Waterway. The variety keeps kids from getting restless and gives everyone multiple chances to find success. Jon's boat is perfectly sized for intimate family groups - with just three guests maximum, there's plenty of room to cast without tangling lines, and everyone gets personalized attention. He provides all the tackle you'll need, from light spinning gear perfect for smaller hands to slightly heavier setups for the adults who want to battle bigger fish. Safety comes first, but Jon knows how to keep the atmosphere relaxed and fun while teaching proper fish-handling techniques.
Jon's approach to family fishing centers on using techniques that produce consistent action while being simple enough for kids to master. Near the wrecks, you'll work with bottom rigs and small jigs to entice curious fish hiding in the structure. The key here is feeling for that telltale thump and learning to set the hook with confidence. Along the beach, you'll try your hand at casting spoons and small lures into feeding schools - when Spanish Mackerel are running, the action can be absolutely electric. The ICW portions of the trip focus on sight fishing and working grass lines where Redfish love to cruise. Jon's eagle eye for spotting fish movement and reading water conditions means you'll be casting to active fish rather than just hoping for the best. He'll adjust tackle and techniques based on what's working that day, but his go-to approach emphasizes light tackle fishing that lets even smaller fish put up a memorable fight. The boat stays mobile, so if one spot isn't producing, you're quickly on to the next promising area.
Bluefish are the perfect starter species for family trips, and Wilmington's waters hold good numbers year-round with peak action from spring through fall. These aggressive feeders aren't picky about baits or lures, making them ideal confidence-builders for nervous first-timers. When a school of blues moves through, everyone on board gets in on the action - they travel in packs and compete for food, so multiple hookups are common. Blues typically run 2-8 pounds in these waters, big enough to bend a rod and get hearts pumping without overwhelming younger anglers. Their sharp teeth and spirited fights teach important lessons about fish handling while delivering plenty of excitement.
Spanish Mackerel bring speed and acrobatics to the mix, especially during their prime season from late spring through early fall. These chrome bullets can't resist a fast-moving spoon or small jig, and when you hook one, get ready for blistering runs and occasional jumps. They're incredibly fun on light tackle, turning even a modest 2-pound fish into a memorable battle. Spanish Mackerel often feed in large schools near the surface, creating visual excitement as you watch them crash bait before casting into the fray. Their distinctive golden spots and streamlined bodies make for great photos, and they're excellent table fare if you decide to keep a few for dinner.
Redfish represent the crown jewel of this trip - North Carolina's signature inshore species that combines beauty, strength, and intelligence. These copper-colored bruisers can show up anywhere from shallow grass flats to deeper channel edges, and Jon knows all their favorite haunts around Wilmington. Reds are available year-round but really shine during fall months when they school up for their spawning runs. A slot-sized Redfish (18-27 inches) provides an ideal challenge for family groups - strong enough to test your drag and technique without being unmanageable. Their distinctive spotted tails and bronze flanks make them instantly recognizable, and watching one inhale your bait in clear water ranks among inshore fishing's greatest thrills.
Captain Jon's family-friendly approach has made this charter a customer favorite among Wilmington visitors and locals alike. The four-hour format hits the sweet spot - long enough to explore different areas and target multiple species, but not so long that kids get restless or adults get worn out. With tackle, instruction, and years of local expertise included, all you need to bring is sunscreen, snacks, and excitement for a day on the water. The intimate three-person capacity ensures everyone gets hands-on attention and plenty of opportunities to improve their skills. Whether you're introducing kids to fishing for the first time or reconnecting as a family away from screens and distractions, this world-class charter delivers memories that last long after the fish stop biting. Book early, especially during peak season - trips like this with renowned local captains fill up fast.
Captain Jon's 23' Four Sons flats boat is perfect for your Wilmington family fishing adventure. This brand-new 2023 vessel runs on a powerful 200HP Suzuki engine, cruising smoothly at 35 knots to get you to the best fishing spots quickly. The boat comfortably holds up to 3 guests, making it ideal for small family groups. You'll love the wireless trolling motor that keeps things quiet when sneaking up on Redfish in shallow waters. The GPS navigation system helps Captain Jon find those productive near-shore wrecks where Spanish Mackerel love to hang out, while the fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating schools of Bluefish along the beach. Whether you're cruising the ICW or working the flats, this modern fishing machine has everything needed for a successful day on the water with the kids.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are the bullies of our local waters, and that's exactly why families love targeting them. These aggressive feeders run anywhere from small "snappers" perfect for kids up to hefty 10-pounders that'll give dad a workout. You'll find them in the surf, around jetties, and near structure in 5-40 feet of water. Late summer brings the best action when schools move through chasing bait. What sets bluefish apart is their attitude - they hit hard and fight dirty with powerful runs. The smaller ones are fantastic eating with mild, flaky meat, though watch those razor-sharp teeth when handling them. Local secret: look for diving birds and churning water. When bluefish go into a feeding frenzy, it's game on for some fast action that'll keep the whole crew busy.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are one of our most popular targets around Wilmington's shallow waters. These copper-colored beauties average 20-30 inches and are easily spotted by their distinctive black eyespots near the tail. You'll find them cruising oyster bars, grass flats, and around docks in 1-4 feet of water. They're year-round residents here, but fall and spring offer the best action when they're actively feeding. What makes redfish special is their powerful fight - they'll strip drag and make long runs that get everyone's heart pumping. Plus, they're excellent table fare with mild, flaky meat that's perfect for the grill. Pro tip: watch for their backs breaking the surface in super shallow water - that's when you know you're onto something good.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are speed demons that'll test your reflexes around Wilmington's nearshore waters. These silver rockets typically run 1-2 feet long and weigh 2-4 pounds, but don't let their size fool you - they're lightning fast and put up a spirited fight. You'll find schools of them around wrecks, piers, and along the beach in 10-30 feet of water. Summer through early fall is prime time when they're chasing baitfish near the surface. Kids love them because they bite aggressively and don't require heavy tackle. The meat is excellent - mild flavor that grills beautifully or makes great fish cakes. Here's a local trick: when you see birds diving, head that way fast. Spanish mackerel will be underneath feeding on the same bait.
Wrightsville Beach/Carolina Beach