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Guides > Captain Randy Thornton

Riptide charters

Wanchese NC

Riptide charters
Riptide charters
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Excellent

(27 reviews)

5

Your Captain

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Randy Thornton

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Guides > Captain Randy Thornton

Riptide charters

locationWanchese NC

Guidesly Guarantee
5 27 reviews

Your Captain

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Randy Thornton

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Randy Thornton, Captain at Riptide charters

For an unforgettable fishing adventure, RipTide Charters is your go-to choice for Wanchese fishing charters. Whether you're looking for inshore fishing Wanchese NC, nearshore fishing Outer Banks, or an exciting deep sea fishing Wanchese experience, Captain Randy has the expertise to guide you. With over 12 years of professional fishing experience, he knows the best spots to ensure a successful trip. As one of the top Outer Banks fishing guides, he specializes in light tackle fishing Wanchese, helping anglers of all skill levels enjoy a productive day on the water.


Wanchese, NC, is a true fisherman’s paradise, offering access to diverse habitats, including flats, marshes, and reefs. Whether you're targeting red drum, flounder, speckled trout, cobia, sheepshead, king mackerel, or striped bass, this area provides prime opportunities for Outer Banks inshore fishing trips. With the Pamlico Sound and Atlantic Ocean nearby, you’ll spend more time fishing and less time traveling, making this one of the best fishing charters Wanchese NC. If you’re looking for a Wanchese nearshore trolling charters, RipTide Charters offers specialized trips tailored to your preferences.


Captain Randy operates a Mako 25’ center console, powered by a 300 HP Evinrude engine, designed for OBX fishing charters. This vessel accommodates up to five guests and features two depth finders, a flybridge, a live well, and ice boxes, ensuring comfort and efficiency. Families are welcome, and Wanchese family fishing charters are perfect for introducing kids to the sport. If you're searching for a Wanchese kids-friendly fishing trips, this charter is an excellent choice.


Each trip includes rods, reels, bait, tackle, drinks, and fishing licenses, so you can focus on landing fish. The boat is sanitized before every trip for safety. Whether you choose a Wanchese NC half-day fishing trips or a full-day outing, Captain Randy ensures an exciting and rewarding experience. He stays updated on the best time to fish in Wanchese NC, giving you the highest chance of success.


For those seeking affordable fishing charters Wanchese, RipTide Charters delivers quality service at great value. If you want a personalized experience, book an OBX private fishing charters today and enjoy Outer Banks sportfishing at its finest.

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Upcoming Availability

November 2025
December 2025

Expertise & Attributes

fishing

fishing

Master GuideMaster GuideGood with Large GroupsGood with Large GroupsGood with New AnglersGood with New AnglersGood with FamiliesGood with FamiliesGood with KidsGood with KidsNature / Wildlife ViewsNature / Wildlife ViewsSaltwater FishingSaltwater Fishing

Fishing Techniques

JiggingTrolling FishingHeavy TackleLight TackleDeep Sea / Bottom FishingDrift Boat Fishing

What's Included

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Keep your Catch

Keep your Catch

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

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.

Nature / Wildlife Views

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

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

Keep your Catch

Keep your Catch

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

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.

Nature / Wildlife Views

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

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 Riptide charters

Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and MackerelTop-Rated
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and MackerelInstant Booking
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and MackerelFishing - Offshore
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel

Head out to the best nearshore fishing spots and target a variety of exciting species, including Redfish, Spanish Mackerel, Triggerfish, Bluefish, Cobia, and Ribbonfish. Try your hand at different fishing techniques to see what works best, whether it’s trolling, jigging, or bottom fishing. With plenty of opportunities to hook into hard-fighting fish, this trip is perfect for anglers looking for an exciting day on the water. Enjoy the beautiful Outer Banks coastline while chasing some of the area's most sought-after catches. Book your nearshore adventure today and reel in an unforgettable experience!

Morning Trip

Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and MackerelMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel4 Hours
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel7:00 AM
$525

Afternoon Trip

Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and MackerelMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel4 Hours
Outer Banks Nearshore Fishing Charter for Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, and Mackerel12:00 PM
$525

Pick Your Date

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Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter
Wanchese Inshore Fishing CharterTop-Rated
Wanchese Inshore Fishing CharterInstant Booking
Wanchese Inshore Fishing CharterFishing - Inshore
Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter

Spend 6 hours fishing the calm waters inside the inlet, where a variety of species are waiting to bite. Target Trout, Redfish, Sheepshead, Sea Mullet, and more while enjoying a fun and productive day on the water. With diverse fishing spots and steady action, this trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're casting near the marshes or dropping bait along the structure, there’s always a chance to hook something exciting. The protected waters provide a smooth and enjoyable experience, making this a great choice for families and serious anglers alike. Book your inshore fishing trip today and experience the best of Wanchese fishing!

Morning Trip

Wanchese Inshore Fishing CharterMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter6 Hours
Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter6:00 AM
$600

Afternoon Trip

Wanchese Inshore Fishing CharterMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter6 Hours
Wanchese Inshore Fishing Charter1:00 PM
$600

Pick Your Date

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Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea Trout
Best Price Guarantee
Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea TroutTop-Rated
Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea TroutInstant Booking
Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea TroutFishing - Inshore
Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea Trout

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea Trout

This 2-hour late afternoon trip in the calm waters of the sound is perfect for families and young anglers eager to experience fishing. Designed for smaller children, this trip offers a chance to catch Speckled Trout, Red Drum, Flounder, and other bottom fish. Depending on the conditions, you may be casting, drifting, or jigging to reel in the action. All fishing equipment is included, so just bring your excitement! The peaceful waters and shorter trip length make it an excellent introduction to fishing for beginners. Relax, enjoy the scenic views, and reel in some unforgettable moments. Book now and create lasting fishing memories in Wanchese!

Evening Trip

Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea TroutMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea Trout2 Hours
Private Inshore Fishing Charter Wanchese for Redfish and Sea Trout4:30 PM
$325

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Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing CharterTop-Rated
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing CharterInstant Booking
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing CharterFishing - Offshore
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter

This 6-hour nearshore fishing trip gives you plenty of time to explore a variety of fishing spots, from the open ocean to the calm waters of the sound. With more ground to cover, you’ll have the chance to target Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Redfish, Trout, Sheepshead, and bottom fish. Switch up your techniques with casting, drifting, jigging, and live baiting to see what gets the best bite. Whether you're chasing fast-moving predators or dropping lines for bottom dwellers, this trip offers something for every angler. Book your nearshore fishing experience today and reel in an unforgettable catch!

Morning Trip

Full-Day Nearshore Fishing CharterMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter6 Hours
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter6:00 AM
$700

Afternoon Trip

Full-Day Nearshore Fishing CharterMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter6 Hours
Full-Day Nearshore Fishing Charter1:00 PM
$700

Pick Your Date

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Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided Trip
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided TripTop-Rated
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided TripInstant Booking
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided TripFishing - Offshore
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided Trip

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided Trip

Book a focused 7-Hour Full-Day Cobia Guided Trip targeting one of the ocean's most challenging and powerful fish. This specialized offshore charter focuses on sight casting for Cobia, a hard-fighting species that can exceed 100 pounds. We spend the day scanning the waters, looking for the perfect casting opportunities. The trip is designed to challenge and reward anglers of all skill levels, including those new to specialized sight casting. All necessary top-quality gear, rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included. Guests should bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate attire. This excursion offers an exciting opportunity to land a trophy catch.

Trip

Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided TripMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided Trip7 Hours
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter, Cobia Sight Casting Guided Trip9:00 AM
$800

Pick Your Date

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Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and Mackerel
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and MackerelTop-Rated
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and MackerelInstant Booking
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and MackerelFishing - Inshore
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and Mackerel

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and Mackerel

Book an extended 8-Hour Full-Day Guided Trip that provides ample time to explore various coastal and offshore fishing grounds. This charter targets diverse species, including Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Cobia, and Sea Trout. Depending on conditions, anglers will employ a variety of effective techniques, such as trolling, sight casting, live baiting, and jigging. This trip is designed for all skill levels and offers a fantastic chance to fill the cooler. The booking includes all necessary top-quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Guests are advised to bring personal food, drinks, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Secure your spot today for a comprehensive, full-day fishing adventure.

Full Day Trip

Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and MackerelMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and Mackerel8 Hours
Full-Day Offshore Fishing Charter for Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, and Mackerel7:00 AM
$900

Pick Your Date

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Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing CharterTop-Rated
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing CharterInstant Booking
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing CharterFishing - Inshore
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter

25' Mako25'Mako Max 5 guests (base trip price includes 5 guests)

Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter

Experience a focused 4-Hour Half-Day Inshore Guided Trip exploring the Outer Banks sound, inlet, flats, and nearshore reefs. This trip targets popular inshore species including Speckled Trout, Redfish (Red Drum), Flounder, Bluefish, and Sheepshead. Anglers will use various proven techniques such as jigging, drifting, or live bait fishing in diverse habitats. This charter is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced anglers. The trip includes all necessary rods, reels, tackle, and bait. It is recommended to bring polarized sunglasses, a hat, and appropriate weather gear. Book now for a productive and scenic fishing experience in the coastal waters.

Morning Trip

Outer Banks Inshore Fishing CharterMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter4 Hours
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter7:00 AM
$450

Afternoon Trip

Outer Banks Inshore Fishing CharterMaximum 5 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 5 guests)
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter4 Hours
Outer Banks Inshore Fishing Charter12:00 PM
$450

Pick Your Date

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Vehicle

25' Mako

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

5

Boat Length:

25 ft

Manufacturer Name:

Mako

Model Year:

2000

Engine Manufacturer Name:

Suzuki

# of Engines:

1

Horsepower Per Engine:

300

Maximum Cruising Speed:

30

Features: Bait Tank Outriggers Flybridge Ice-Box Fish Finder GPS

Riptide charters Mako Boat

This 25’ Mako center console is built for performance and versatility, powered by a 300HP Suzuki engine with a max cruising speed of 30 knots. Designed for up to 5 guests, it’s perfect for inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing adventures in Wanchese, NC.

Boat

Riptide charters Mako Boat image 0

25' Mako

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

5

Boat Length:

25 ft

Vehicle Details

FAQs about Riptide charters

Reports and Expert Articles

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Redfish finally showing at Wanchese Marina

After some slow days, the action picked up this afternoon at Wanchese Marina, OBX. Managed to land some redfish, making for a satisfying outing despite the recent challenges. Anglers are starting to see signs of the bite picking up—definitely worth heading out!

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Still chipping away—thanks to everyone who fished with me this week!

Still chipping away thanks everyone who fished with me this week.

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Thanks for the afternoon action, guys!

Afternoon action thanks guys.

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Back for year two with Jim’s family—another solid drum fishing trip. Thanks again, see you next year!

Had jim and his family out for the 2nd year in a row and the drum fishing did not disappoint. Thanks agian guys see y’all next year.

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Wanchese, NC Fishing Report

The weather is finally shifting in our favor, and prime Sheepshead season is just around the corner. It won’t be long before these fish are biting, making it the perfect time to plan your next fishing trip. Spring fishing offers some of the best action of the year, so don’t miss your chance to reel in a great catch. Book your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water!

Ratings & Reviews Summary

5.00
out of 5
Based on 27 ratings
100%
recommended
recommended
Based on 27 recommendations
5
27
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

November 3, 2025

Captain Randy knew exactly where all the fish were, and it was non-stop action! The crew was super fun, and overall, it was a top-notch experience. I can't recommend it enough!

November 3, 2025

We started off by catching bait with ease, then moved on to our target species. Once we anchored and started throwing out the live bait, it was non-stop action—fish after fish! We limited out quickly. Our captain was incredibly knowledgeable and did a great job explaining the fishing techniques to the younger kids. A fantastic experience all around!

November 3, 2025

We met up with Capt Randy at 6am on a (really) hot day in late June 2025 for a 6 hour fishing trip. Based on the days conditions, Capt Randy recommended a run out to a reef for bottom fishing. We road about 45-50 mins out to the reef on a very calm ocean day. On our out to the reef, we spotted a sea turtle and got a cobia on a lucky cast. Capt Randy trained us on the reef fishing techniques and we caught many fish! Black Seabass, Triggerfish, and Sea Robin Fish. Many fish we had to toss back, but we did keep a handful. Wonderful day for a family of 4 (14yo, 16yo) on a six hour trip.

November 3, 2025

We explained to Capt. Randy we wanted to catch fish to eat for dinner. He delivered! We had a great time tolling and taking turns catching and yes even missing a few. Capt. Randy was easy to work with and everyone caught fish. He showed us how to bring them in and remove them and to the ice chest they went. Really super fun. Not our first trip out fishing in the Ocean but the best ever. Capt. Randy is patient and laidback so kids would have a good time. Everything was in great working order, boat clean and ready to go when we arrived. We were very pleased. Thank you Captain Randy.

November 3, 2025

We had a wonderful trip. I booked the 2 hour trip with Captain Randy since it was the first time my daughter and wife had been fishing in the bay/ocean. We each caught fish, the captain was knowledgeable, friendly, down to earth, helped bait all fishing poles, and given the wait time to have our fish cleaned he did it for us. We of course gave him a nice tip. Highly recommend this trip if you have children who have never been fishing in the bay/ocean. We will be booking a longer trip with captain Randy the next time.

November 3, 2025

This is my first time booking a charter, my son and I have recently taken to fishing and are still very much beginners lol. I went with Riptide for a midday 4 hour trip and had a blast, I definitely recommend Capt. Randy he's super knowledgeable and experienced, he's down to earth and easy to chat with. He explained the process every step of the way and answer all of my questions and there was a lot, I genuinely learned a ton, and will be booking again.

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