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Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters

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Oriental NC

Dave Hegel, Captain at Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters

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 Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters offers the best fishing experience in North Carolina! Home of 18 of 24 IFGA World record Redfish. Capt. Dave Hegel has 40 years of experience on the Neuse River, Pamlico River and Pamlico Sound fishing for Old Drum, Tarpon, Sea Trout, Striper & Flounder In his 40-year fishing experience, Captain Dave cherishes the moments he spent fishing with some of the biggest names in the industry. From saltwater legends like George Poveromo and Mark Sosin to professional red fishing teams, and bass icons such as Denny Brauer, Larry Nixon, Guido and Dion Hibdon, Davy Hite, and Bobby and Billy Murray, Dave has had the privilege of learning from the best. These experiences have equipped Captain Dave with invaluable skills and knowledge that only come from fishing with the pros. Ranging from 3-hour to 8-hour trips, this North Carolina fishing charter is sure to cater your budget and availability! Year round, Captain Dave can take you Neuse River fishing, Pamlico River fishing, Pamlico Sound fishing for a variety of species. From July to October, seek the legendary Tarpon and Old Drum (Bull Reds) that come from the Atlantic to spawn. Year round PPFC offers, Slot & puppy Redfish, Striper, Sea Trout, Flounder, Blue Fish and in the summertime, Spanish Mackerel. Your trips with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters will be aboard the gorgeous Skipplett. Skipplett is powered by a 2021 300 HP Suzuki 4 Stroke Outboard with Jack Plate on a 23’ Boca Bay made by AquaSport. The boat also contains a beautiful T-Top shade and 2 live wells. It is equipped with a 12-inch Simrad Side and Down Scan, GPS, Stereo, and a Minn-Kota 36 volt Riptide trolling motor. The magnificent customization of the boat makes it perfect for the conditions and fishing styles of the Neuse & Pamlico Rivers and the Pamlico sound. 


On your trip with PPFC, you are provided the use of the outstanding Star Fishing Rods, Daiwa BG reels, a Yeti cooler should you bring beverages & snacks. If you plan on keeping your legal catches; we suggest you bring a cooler for your trip home. We recommend Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and suitable attire. NC coastal weather can be very hot and winter can be chilly.


Hop on board & book your trip with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters for the best North Carolina fishing adventure.

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Upcoming Availability

May 2025
June 2025

Expertise & Attributes

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fishing

fishing

Good with FamiliesGood with FamiliesGood with KidsGood with KidsGood with Large GroupsGood with Large GroupsGood with New AnglersGood with New AnglersMaster GuideMaster GuideNature / Wildlife ViewsNature / Wildlife ViewsSaltwater FishingSaltwater FishingTechnical FishingTechnical Fishing

Fishing Techniques

Fly FishingLight TackleBait Casting

What's Included

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Transportation

Transportation

Transportation to and from the trip location.

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Keep your Catch

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

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Good to Knows

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

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License

License

Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.

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Nature / Wildlife Views

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

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Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

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What's Included

Transportation

Transportation

Transportation to and from the trip location.

Show More

Keep your Catch

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Show More

Good to Knows

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

Show More

License

License

Read about the licensing details that is / is not covered in the below trips.

Show More

Nature / Wildlife Views

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Show More

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

Show More

Trips Available with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters

Cape Lookout Cobia Quest

Fishing

Starting At $715

Cape Lookout Cobia Quest

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Normally a solitary fish, starting in May, Cape Lookout and the Outer Banks of NC have a fantastic Cobia spawn migration inshore. Using various techniques from live bait to bucktails, Captain Dave is ready with a plan! The NC State record Cobia of 116.5 pounds was caught in 2006, right near Cape Lookout. Cobia have been a "bucket list fish" for many sportsmen, Cape Lookout is a great place to land one. Departing out of the Beaufort, NC area, you'll spend your day around the famed, "Hook" of Cape Lookout, around the wild horses of OBX and the famed Lighthouse!

NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure (Red Fish, Bluefish, Speckled Trout, Flounder & Striped Bass.)

Fishing

Starting At $475

NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure (Red Fish, Bluefish, Speckled Trout, Flounder & Striped Bass.)

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: The Neuse River has fantastic year-round fishing for many species. Bull or "Old Drum" Redfish, Slot Red Fish, Bluefish and Striper are targeted with "catching fish" as the goal for this trip. Whatever is "HOT", is the plan for your charter. Capt. Dave Hegel has the set up on his vessel, for a comfortable day on the water. As part of the Parker Offshore Prostaff, Capt. Dave runs a brand new 2025 Parker SE, designed to sneak into shallow waters and stalk these awesome inshore fish targeting the highest catch ratio for that time of year. Captain Dave loves to hear; "FISH ON!"

New Bern, NC Multi-Species Fishing (Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Striper & Blues)

Fishing

Starting At $475

New Bern, NC Multi-Species Fishing (Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Striper & Blues)

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: River

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Fish historical New Bern, NC with 40 years of experience. Captain Dave Hegel is a full-time inshore guide, who lives on the Neuse River & is fishing daily on the system. The Neuse River has fantastic year-round fishing for many species. Bull or "Old Drum" Redfish, Slot Red Fish, Bluefish and Striper are targeted with "catching fish" as the goal for this trip. Whatever is "HOT", is the plan for your charter. Capt. Dave Hegel has the set up on his vessel, for a comfortable day on the water. As part of the Parker Offshore Prostaff, Capt. Dave runs a brand new 2025 Parker 23SE.

North Carolina Fishing Charter: Trophy Bull, "OLD" Drum & Tarpon: June-Oct (Price Includes Three Guests)

Fishing

Starting At $715

North Carolina Fishing Charter: Trophy Bull, "OLD" Drum & Tarpon: June-Oct (Price Includes Three Guests)

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Join us for an incredible fishing adventure in the inshore waters of North Carolina. On these charters we will specifically be targeting trophy sized Redfish as they move into shallower waters from the middle of summer until the fall. North Carolina and specifically the waters we fish are home to a huge chunk of world record Redfish. There is no better place to target these fish than in the waters. During this time of the year, we also have spawning Tarpon as a bonus! Let's get you hooked up! License is covered by Captain Dave.

Afternoon Bull/"OLD" Drum Excursion (3 Guest)

Fishing

Starting At $715

Afternoon Bull/"OLD" Drum Excursion (3 Guest)

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Inshore

Capacity:

Max 3 guests (base trip price includes 3 guests)

Description: Chase the legendary Neuse River "Old Drum" on an afternoon to twilight trip. Captain Dave Hegel lives on the Neuse River and has been fishing his home waters since 1984. Home to 18 of 24 IFGA World Records for Redfish, the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound offers world class trophy Redfish as they come from the Atlantic Ocean to spawn from July till late October. Afternoon trips can be VERY productive when they move towards the shoal edges to feed at dusk. Fish from 3:00pm until sunset using a variety of methods from chasing bait balls with popping corks to soaking cut bait on shoal edges.

FISHERMAN'S POST SALTWATER FISHING SCHOOL 15% off Special

Fishing

Starting At $608

FISHERMAN'S POST SALTWATER FISHING SCHOOL 15% off Special

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: For a limited time, we're offering an exclusive 15% discount on fishing charters targeting a wide variety of species in North Carolina. Simply pick your date, place your deposit, and get ready for an adventure—everything else is taken care of, including top-of-the-line gear and expert guidance. This special offer is available for a limited time, so don't wait—book your charter today and take advantage of this limited-time deal before spots fill up. Let's go fishing!

False Albacore Frenzy at Cape Lookout, NC

Fishing

Starting At $715

False Albacore Frenzy at Cape Lookout, NC

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Offshore

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: These amazingly strong & fast gamefish are a "bucket list" for anyone visiting NC in the Fall. When these "tuna" surface it's a race to the school to cast to the "JET" like fish on light tackle. Pound for Pound, one of the best fights in fishing. Little Tunny or False Albacore are a day of drag pulling and laughing!

NC Coastal Fly Fishing: The Ultimate Challenge (Price Includes 2 Guests)

Fishing

Starting At $475

NC Coastal Fly Fishing: The Ultimate Challenge (Price Includes 2 Guests)

Fishing Area: North Carolina

Fishing: Inshore

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: Embark on a challenging and rewarding adventure with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters! Fly Fishing is such a fun and exciting way to target Redfish & Tarpon; our inshore waters of North Carolina offer an abundance of species year-round. Whether we are fishing for Trophy Drum, Tarpon or Slot Drum tailing in the shallows, the excitement is all the same with a fly rod in hand. Make sure to bring your own rod and flies while we guide you to the best spots for inshore fly fishing. We cover your North Carolina fishing license. We look forward to fishing with you, so book your trip today!

Scenic Boat Tour of Oriental, NC (7 Guest)

Tour

Starting At $500

Scenic Boat Tour of Oriental, NC (7 Guest)

Tour Area: North Carolina

Tour: Cruise

Fishing Boat:

Parker • 23' Parker • Max 4 guests (base trip price includes 4 guests)

Description: See beautiful Oriental, NC and bask at the views of the gorgeous harbor town off the ICW. Climb aboard a 2025 23' Parker 23SE with Porta Potti. Capt. Dave Hegel will take you on a tour of the area to see nature and the waterway. Dolphin, Birds and occasionally a bear might be seen. Tours are 3 hours and can be selected for a tour start time, between 9AM and 3 PM.

Vehicle

Parker

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

4

Boat Length:

23 ft

Manufacturer Name:

Parker

Model Year:

2025

Engine Manufacturer Name:

Yamaha

# of Engines:

1

Horsepower Per Engine:

250

Maximum Cruising Speed:

55

Features: Toilet Multimedia System GPS

Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters Parker Boat

Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters runs a 2025 Parker Offshore 2300SE This boat is perfect for our pamlico sound fishing charters.

Boat

Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters Parker Boat image 0

Parker

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

4

Boat Length:

23 ft

Vehicle Details

FAQs about Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters

Reports and Expert Articles

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North Carolina Inshore Multi-Species Fishing Adventure

It was a beautiful Spring day in Oriental, North Carolina as I welcomed Larry aboard for our NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure. April is a prime time for inshore fishing in these waters, with the warming temperatures bringing the Bluefish, Redfish, Speckled Trout, and Stripers into the shallows of the Pamlico Sound and Neuse River. We set out from the docks, ready to target whatever was biting best. I rigged up with a mix of fly fishing, baitcasting, and light tackle setups, knowing we'd need to be adaptable to find the hot bite. It didn't take long before Larry's rod doubled over - he'd hooked into a feisty Bluefish that put up one heck of a fight. We worked that fish hard, and after a few wild runs, he brought it boatside. Always a fun fish to tangle with! Over the next few hours, we covered a lot of prime inshore water, sight-fishing the flats and working current seams for any signs of life. The fish were active, and we had a blast working different presentations to draw strikes. Though we didn't land any monster Reds or Trout today, the non-stop action on the Bluefish kept us thoroughly entertained. It was one of those perfect days on the water - great weather, excellent water conditions, and steady fishing action. If you're looking to experience the best inshore fishing that North Carolina has to offer, I'd highly recommend booking the NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. Whether you're after Redfish, Speckled Trout, Stripers, or just want to get in on some fast-paced Bluefish action, we'll put you on the fish and make sure you have an amazing day on the water. Can't wait to get you out here and on the fish!

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Fishing the Famed Pamlico Sound: A Day of Inshore Adventure

We had a fantastic day out on the water today with Cheryl and the crew, chasing inshore species in the famed Pamlico Sound and Neuse River near Oriental, North Carolina. April is a prime time for this kind of multi-species action, with the warming waters bringing the fish up shallow and keeping them hungry. The weather wasn't ideal, with some wind throughout the day, but we were able to adapt and find the fish. We tried a variety of techniques - fly fishing, bait casting, and light tackle - to cover different depths and target the most active species. While we didn't manage to hook any big Redfish or Speckled Trout, we did find some feisty Bluefish and Stingrays that kept us on our toes. The wind made things a bit tougher, but we stayed positive and just focused on enjoying the day out on the water. Between the occasional hookup, we took in the beautiful Pamlico scenery, admiring the marshes and wildlife. And even without landing any prized inshore species, the camaraderie and overall experience made it a truly memorable trip. If you're looking to get in on the best inshore fishing that North Carolina has to offer, I highly recommend booking a trip with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. Whether you're targeting Bull Reds, Slot Reds, Bluefish, Stripers, or the ever-elusive Speckled Trout, Captain Dave and his team have the skills and local knowledge to put you on the fish. And with their comfortable, well-equipped boat, you can enjoy a full day on the water in style. So if you're planning a fishing trip to the Pamlico area, don't hesitate to reach out and let us show you an unforgettable day on the water.

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Striped Bass Bonanza: Inshore Fishing Adventure on the Neuse River

It was a beautiful April day when Taylor joined me out on the water for some fantastic inshore fishing around New Bern, North Carolina. The Neuse River is truly a special fishery, and this time of year is prime for targeting a variety of species like Striped Bass and Spotted Seatrout. With clear skies and great water conditions, we knew we were in for an action-packed day. As we launched the boat from Lawson Creek Park and started working the river, it didn't take long before the rods started bending. We tried a mix of techniques, from fly fishing to baitcasting, to see what the fish were keying in on. The Striped Bass were hitting our lures aggressively, putting up a great fight and showing off their impressive size and power. In between the Stripers, we also managed to hook into some nice Spotted Seatrout, which put on an impressive aerial display before we carefully released them back into the river. The fishing stayed consistent throughout the day, and it was just a pleasure being out on the water. Between the great scenery, comfortable boat, and the satisfaction of tight lines, it was the perfect way to spend a day. I've been guiding these waters for over 40 years, and I still get excited every time I get to share the Neuse River with anglers like Taylor. There's nothing quite like watching someone experience the thrill of catching their first Striped Bass or Spotted Seatrout. If you're looking to get in on the amazing inshore fishing that New Bern has to offer, I'd highly recommend booking a trip with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting started, we'll make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water, targeting species like Stripers, Seatrout, Redfish, and more. The Neuse River is truly a fishing paradise, and I can't wait to share it with you. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and let's go catch some fish!

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Inshore Angling Adventure: Redfish, Seatrout, and More on the Neuse

It was another great day out on the water with Joe, exploring the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound near Oriental, North Carolina. April is a prime time for inshore fishing around these parts, with the Spotted Seatrout, Red Drum, and other species really starting to get active in the warming spring waters. We had partly cloudy skies and great water conditions, perfect for our light tackle and fly fishing adventure. As soon as we got the lines in, the action picked up. Joe was into Spotted Seatrout right away, working his fly presentation perfectly to draw strikes from these feisty fish. Not long after, he hooked into a nice Red Drum, putting up a nice fight before we got it in the boat. We kept rotating through different techniques - baitcasting, light tackle, and fly fishing - picking apart the structure and points to find where the fish were holding. The variety of species had us on our toes, and it was just a blast going after whatever was biting. The trip had a great flow, with steady action and a nice mix of fish. Between the productive fishing, the comfortable ride, and the beautiful surroundings, it was a day that really encapsulated why I love guiding these inshore charters. Joe was a pleasure to have on board, and I could tell he was having a blast trying his hand at different presentations and techniques to get those fish to eat. If you're looking to experience some of the best inshore fishing in North Carolina, I'd highly recommend booking a trip with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. Whether you're after "Bull" Redfish, slot Reds, Speckled Trout, Flounder, or Striped Bass, we've got the knowledge and the gear to put you on the bite. Our custom Parker SE boat is designed to get you into those skinny, inshore waters without any trouble, and with my years of experience guiding these waters, I'll make sure you have an unforgettable time on the water. So if you're ready to get in on the action, give us a call and let's get you out there!

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Casting for Coastal Prizes: A NC Fishing Adventure with Pamlico Pirate

We had a fantastic day out on the water with Brandon Christner and the crew for a NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. March in Oriental, North Carolina is prime time for inshore fishing, with the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound offering excellent opportunities to target a variety of species like Redfish, Bluefish, Speckled Trout, and Striped Bass. Despite the partly cloudy skies and sporadic rain, the conditions were great, and we wasted no time getting our lines in the water. We mixed it up, trying different techniques like fly fishing, bait casting, and light tackle to see what the fish were responding to. It didn't take long before the rods started bending, and we were into some nice Spotted Seatrout. These fish put up a great fight, stripping line and making acrobatic jumps as we worked to bring them in. The action stayed consistent throughout the day, and we had a blast working the flats and structure, trying to predict where the fish would be holding. In between the bites, we had the chance to take in the scenic waterways and beautiful coastal scenery. It's hard to beat the peacefulness of gliding across the gentle waters, surrounded by nature, and then getting the adrenaline rush of a fish hitting the bait. If you're looking to experience the best inshore fishing North Carolina has to offer, book your NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. Whether you're after hard-fighting Redfish, feisty Bluefish, or the elusive Speckled Trout, our expert guides will put you on the fish and make sure you have an unforgettable day on the water. From the moment you step on board, you'll be treated to first-class service, top-of-the-line equipment, and the kind of local knowledge that can only come from true fishing veterans. So don't miss your chance to chase some of the Southeast's most prized inshore species - book your trip today!

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North Carolina Fishing Report

Today, anglers aboard the Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters enjoyed excellent fishing conditions in Pamlico Sound. The morning started with a productive session targeting redfish around the oyster beds and marsh grass edges. Using live shrimp and cut bait, anglers found success with several slot-sized red drum ranging from 18 to 27 inches. As the sun rose higher, we shifted focus to speckled trout in deeper channels and around submerged structures. Artificial baits such as soft plastic paddle tails and popping corks with live minnows proved effective, yielding trout in the 14 to 20-inch range. The trout bite remained steady throughout the mid-morning hours. Later in the day, we ventured to sandy flats and sandy-bottom areas to target flounder. Using mud minnows and Gulp! baits bounced along the bottom, anglers hooked into some quality flounder, with notable catches weighing up to 3 pounds.

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Trout moving out of creeks

Spring Trout Bite

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Neuse River Fishing

Great beginning to the year! Despite the obstacles faced during our fishing expedition in North Carolina, these individuals successfully managed to catch some fish. Our inshore fishing adventure resulted in bountiful catches, including some incredible redfish!

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Winter Trout

Winter trout bite is HOT! Fish are between creek entrances & as far back as you can get. Fish SLOW & then slow down more. Mid Day seems to be peak. Twitch and pause long enough to check your emails. There are some puppy drum schools running as a bonus catch. Mark deep holes and bait with electronics.

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Neuse River Trout & Redfish

Bait balls are starting to become prevalent in the main river, meaning the Bull drum (old drum for us NC people) are going to be in the main river coming to spawn. Today we had one break us off on the Neuse River near Oriental, NC. Angie Lewis of Kenly, NC; did land this beautiful 24" citation trout as well as other fish including blue fish. We are days away from the legendary bait ball bonanza that make this Redfish area the home of 18 of 24 IGFA world records!

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Bull Drum are arriving

Water temperature is up (91 degree water today) and Tarpon & Old Drum (Bulls) are in the Neuse River. We caught a 42" Red today. Covered a lot of water to find fish. focus on bait balks. SW winds will drop the water level and fish seem to be on ledges. Live bait, popping corks and swim baits are your best bet. Go early, the mid day heat makes for a difficult catch.

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Pamlico Sound & Neuse River July

Water Temperature is right for Tarpon migration & Old Drum (Bulls). Bait balls are present already in the rivers & bluefish schools are everywhere. Great catches of slot drum & trout in main river and sound. Some old drum are already being caught on some trips. As always, the best fishing is rising water fromwind tides. Shouldn't be long before the Old Drum schools are around the bait balls. Tarpon rolls are being spotted near the river mouths. Night fishing already productive on the shoals.

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June Baitfish are everywhere

The Neuse River & Pamlico Sound have seen an early arrival of baitfish this year. Blue Fish are schooling at the mouth of the Neuse and numerous slot drum and big trout have been caught.

Ratings & Reviews Summary

5.00
out of 5
Based on 39 ratings
100%
recommended
recommended
Based on 39 recommendations
5
39
4
3
2
1
Our Captain is loved for...
Best Boat
Great For Novices
Great For Top Anglers
Great Guide
Good with Kids
Best Spots

Best Reviews

R
RachelMariluch

May 14, 2025

Had a great time on the water! He was easy to talk to, never bored! Dave was great with our 12yr old son. I love that he used live bait. Highly recommended!

T
TIMOTHYMcknight

May 14, 2025

I'm 41 and I caught the biggest redfish I have ever seen in my life! Captain Dave is a great guide and an even better person. So much fun. Thank you again! Justin, Bryce, and Clark

D
DavidFritsch

May 14, 2025

Awesome trip!  Had a great time!  Great captain!  Achieved our objective of catching a trophy drum!  Couldn't have asked for more!

K
KateLyons

May 14, 2025

Last day of the year and we still found fish! Capt. Dave was the best!

May 14, 2025

Had an awesome experience in the Pamlico Sound with Captain David. I’ve never fished for Drum before and caught the biggest fish of my life. Wow! What a great experience!

ES
Eric Sellers

May 14, 2025

My young son and I had a great fishing trip with Captain Dave. We will be back! 

V
vincentgross

May 14, 2025

Really tuff conditions. Captain Dave worked hard to find fish. Unfortunately they had lockjaw. Excellent captain, really nice boat and equipment. 

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