5.0(1 Reviews)Cape Lookout False Albacore Fishing Charter
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target False Albacore during peak fall season off Cape LookoutLight tackle casting into surface feeds for fastfighting actionAllinclusive charter with licenses, gear, and tackle provided
Picture this: you're standing on the deck with light spinning tackle in hand, watching Captain Dave scan the horizon for bird activity and surface feeds. The fall run is on, and massive schools of False Albacore are tearing through baitfish just off Cape Lookout's legendary waters. This isn't your typical bottom fishing trip – we're talking about fast-paced, surface action that'll have your drag screaming and your arms burning. Captain Dave knows these waters like the back of his hand, and when the Albies are running, there's no better place to be than right here in Beaufort, North Carolina. You'll get three anglers max on this charter, which means more fish per person and plenty of room to fight these speed demons without tangling lines.
This top-rated charter runs during peak fall season when the False Albacore migration hits full swing off Cape Lookout. Captain Dave will have you on the water early, cruising out to where the action's happening. The beauty of Albie fishing is that it's visual – you'll see birds diving, bait jumping, and fish crashing the surface before you even make your first cast. Once we locate a school, it's game on with light spinning gear that lets you feel every head shake and blistering run these fish are famous for. Don't worry about bringing anything – Captain Dave supplies all the rods, reels, tackle, and even covers fishing licenses for up to three guests. The boat's set up perfectly for this style of fishing, with plenty of deck space and all the gear dialed in for maximum success. Weather permitting, you'll spend the day running and gunning, chasing schools across the flats and deeper water where these fish love to hunt.
False Albacore fishing is all about finesse and timing. Captain Dave sets everyone up with light spinning tackle – typically 2500 to 3000 series reels spooled with 15-20lb braid and fluorocarbon leaders. The technique is straightforward but effective: spot the surface activity, position the boat upwind or up-current from the school, and cast small lures or flies right into the mayhem. Popular choices include small spoons, jigs, and soft plastics that mimic the glass minnows and silversides these fish are chasing. The key is making long, accurate casts because Albies can be spooky – get too close and the whole school will sound. Once you hook up, hold on tight because these fish will peel line like you wouldn't believe. Captain Dave coaches you through the fight, helping with boat positioning and making sure you don't break off what could be your personal best. The light tackle makes even a 8-10 pound Albie feel like a world-beater, and the runs they make will leave you grinning ear to ear.
"We were able to go out with Capt Dave for false Albies and man did we have a good time! He is a great captain that communicated throughout the whole process and was able to put us on some great fish. We will definitely be booking with him again." - Ethan
False Albacore, locally called Little Tunny, are the speed merchants of the North Carolina coast and arguably the most fun fish you can target on light tackle. These silver bullets typically run 5-15 pounds in our waters, with the occasional bruiser pushing 20 pounds that'll test your skills and equipment. They show up off Cape Lookout in serious numbers during the fall migration, usually starting in September and running through November when water temperatures begin to drop. What makes them so addictive to catch is their incredible speed and stamina – they're built for open ocean life with that classic tuna body shape and powerful tail. When hooked, they'll make multiple long runs that can strip 100+ yards of line in seconds, followed by those trademark head-shaking fights near the boat. Little Tunny are also incredibly acrobatic, often jumping and tail-walking when they feel the pressure. The best part about targeting them off Cape Lookout is the sheer numbers you can encounter – schools can be massive, and on a good day, you might hook 20+ fish per person. They're also excellent eating when prepared properly, though most anglers practice catch and release to keep these world-class fisheries healthy for future generations.
Captain Dave's False Albacore charters book up fast during peak season, and for good reason – this is some of the best light-tackle action you'll find anywhere on the East Coast. The all-inclusive nature of this trip means you just show up ready to fish, and Captain Dave handles the rest. With only three anglers per trip, you're getting a premium experience with personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to hook up. The fall run doesn't last forever, so if you want to experience what has anglers talking all season long, now's the time to secure your dates. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for your next adrenaline fix or someone new to offshore fishing who wants to experience what all the fuss is about, this charter delivers the goods. Book with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters and get ready for a day of non-stop action that'll have you planning your next trip before you even make it back to the dock.
Captain Dave's 2025 Parker Offshore 2300SE is built for serious False Albacore action off Cape Lookout. This offshore fishing machine handles the fall runs with ease, getting you to where those hard-fighting Little Tunny are feeding. The boat's GPS navigation pinpoints the hottest spots along the coast, while the multimedia system keeps you connected. With comfortable seating for up to 3 anglers, there's plenty of room to work light spinning tackle when the surface feeds explode. The onboard toilet means longer fishing days chasing these blazing-fast fish. Parker's reputation for tough offshore construction shows – this 23-footer cuts through Beaufort waters smoothly, giving you a stable platform for casting into the chaos when schools are up and feeding. Perfect setup for experiencing some of the East Coast's best light-tackle fishing during prime fall season.
5.0 out of 5.0We were able to go out with Capt Dave for false Albies and man did we have a good time! He is a great captain that communicated th...
Ethan Brock, Thank you! You guys where a great crew & I enjoyed the trip! Great Anglers! ☠️🏴☠️...
North Carolina