5.0(2 Reviews)Private Cedar Point Inshore Charter
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Four-hour private inshore fishing charter targeting redfish and troutComfortable 26-foot Pathfinder explores local marshes, rivers, and creeksFamily-friendly adventure accommodates up to six guests with expert captain
Looking for some prime inshore action without the crowds? You've found it. Our 4-hour private fishing charters out of Cedar Point, NC put you right in the heart of some of the best redfish and speckled trout water on the coast. Captain John knows these marshes, creeks, and river mouths like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on fish from May through September when the inshore bite is absolutely on fire.
We'll meet you at the dock bright and early, load up to six anglers on our well-maintained 26' Pathfinder, and head out into the maze of salt marsh and tidal creeks that make Cedar Point famous among serious inshore anglers. This isn't some cattle boat operation – it's your private charter, which means we're fishing at your pace and targeting what you want to catch. The boat's got plenty of room to move around, comfortable seating, and all the safety gear you need. Captain John keeps the atmosphere relaxed but focused, perfect whether you're bringing the family or a group of fishing buddies. The shallow water here is crystal clear most days, and when conditions are right, you might even spot your target before you cast to it.
We fish light tackle almost exclusively – think spinning reels spooled with 15-20 pound braid and leaders that won't spook these smart inshore fish. Depending on what's biting and where we find them, we'll be throwing everything from live shrimp under popping corks to soft plastics worked along grass lines and oyster bars. The beauty of inshore fishing here is the variety of presentations that work. One minute you're sight-casting to a school of reds tailing in two feet of water, the next you're drifting live bait along a drop-off where the big speckled trout hang out. Captain John provides all rods, reels, tackle, and bait, though he's always happy if you want to bring your own setup. The key to success in these waters is reading the tides, understanding how baitfish move with the current, and knowing which spots produce at different times of day.
"Our group had an amazing time! The crew went above and beyond to get us on the fish, even arranging for a friend to bring extra shrimp for bait. They were super friendly, and the boat was excellent. We highly recommend them! Thanks again for a fantastic trip!" - Andrew
"Captain Keel was incredibly flexible with my schedule when I couldn't make his usual trip times. After a quick conversation, he kindly offered a night charter for me and my friend. He was extremely knowledgeable, and we ended up catching a great number of redfish and trout." - Aaron
Redfish are the bread and butter of our Cedar Point charters, and for good reason. These copper-colored fighters patrol the shallow flats and marsh edges from late spring through early fall, often in schools that'll get your heart racing. Most of our reds run between 18 and 27 inches – perfect slot fish that fight like they're twice their size. They're most active during moving tides, especially the first two hours of incoming water when they push up into the grass to feed on crabs and shrimp. What makes catching reds so addictive is their aggressive strikes and the way they'll peel drag on that first run.
Sea trout, or speckled trout as the locals call them, are the other star of the show. These beautiful fish love the deeper grass beds and channel edges, especially during the warmer months when baitfish are thick. Specks here typically range from 14 to 22 inches, with the occasional gator trout pushing 25 or better. They're ambush predators that absolutely hammer topwater lures early in the morning or late in the day. There's nothing quite like watching a big speck blow up on a popper in shallow water – it's pure fishing magic.
Black drum might not be the prettiest fish in the marsh, but they're absolute bulldogs when hooked. These bottom dwellers cruise the oyster bars and shallow flats, using their downturned mouths to root out crabs and worms. Most of our drum run 16 to 24 inches and provide steady action when reds and trout are being finicky. They're particularly reliable during the peak summer months when water temperatures climb and other species move to deeper, cooler water.
Sheepshead are the technical challenge of our inshore lineup. These black-and-white striped fish have human-like teeth and are notorious bait thieves, but when you hook one, you know it. They love structure – docks, pilings, oyster bars – anywhere they can find barnacles and small crustaceans to munch on. Sheepshead fishing requires patience and quick reflexes, but landing one is a real accomplishment that'll earn you respect from any serious angler.
Bluefish round out our target list and bring pure chaos to the mix. When schools of blues move through Cedar Point's waters, usually during their spring and fall migrations, the action can be absolutely wild. These aggressive predators will hit almost anything you throw at them and fight with reckless abandon. They're also excellent table fare when bled and iced immediately, making them a favorite among anglers who like to take dinner home.
Cedar Point's inshore fishing season runs hot from May through September, and our 4-hour private charters book up fast once word gets out about the bite. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to target specific species or a family wanting to introduce kids to the sport, Captain John tailors each trip to match your group's experience level and goals. The combination of our local knowledge, top-rated equipment, and some of the
Our 26'2" Pathfinder HPS is built for serious inshore fishing along Cedar Point's productive waters. This reliable boat runs on a smooth Yamaha 300 HP 4-stroke engine that gets you to the fish quickly and quietly. The spacious deck gives all six anglers plenty of room to cast and fight fish without getting tangled up. The onboard fish finder helps locate schools of redfish and speckled trout hiding in the grass flats and creek mouths. GPS navigation keeps us on the productive spots and gets you back to the dock safely. The built-in icebox keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold during those hot summer days on the water. Captain John knows these marshes, rivers, and creeks like the back of his hand, putting you on fish whether you're a weekend warrior or first-timer. The boat handles chop well and drafts shallow enough to chase reds into skinny water where the big ones feed. Perfect setup for families and groups looking to get into some quality inshore action.
Pogonias CromisBlack drum are the gentle giants of our inshore waters, running 5-30 pounds with some monsters pushing 50+. They love oyster beds, muddy bottoms, and structure in 2-15 feet of water. Spring is prime time when they school up for spawning - that's when you'll hear their distinctive drumming sounds underwater. These bottom-feeders are perfect for families since they don't fight as aggressively as reds but still give you a good tussle. Fresh crab is the ticket - blue crab, fiddler crab, or peeler crab work best. The smaller ones under 15 pounds are excellent eating with firm, white meat. Here's the local trick: when you feel that first nibble, don't set the hook right away. Let them mouth the bait for a few seconds, then lift firmly.
Pomatomus SaltatrixThese aggressive fighters are known for their feeding frenzies and sharp teeth. Around Cedar Point, you'll find them in 5-20 feet of water near structure and baitfish schools. They typically run 2-8 pounds but can reach 15+ pounds. Bluefish show up best during our season when water temps warm up, especially on moving tides. They'll hit topwater plugs, spoons, and cut bait with serious attitude. What makes them special is their raw power - they fight hard and make great table fare when under 5 pounds. The bigger ones get a bit strong-tasting. Pro tip: use a wire leader since those razor-sharp teeth will cut through mono in seconds. When you see birds diving on baitfish, that's your cue to get there fast.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are the crown jewel of our inshore trips, averaging 18-30 inches with that signature black spot near the tail. They cruise shallow flats in 1-4 feet of water, often with their backs showing. These copper-colored beauties love oyster bars, grass beds, and creek mouths. Our May through September season is perfect timing when they're actively feeding in the shallows. What gets guests excited is watching them cruise the flats and that explosive strike when they hit. They fight hard, pulling drag and making long runs. The slot-size fish (18-27 inches here in NC) are fantastic table fare with mild, flaky meat. My go-to trick: look for nervous water and bait activity, then cast beyond the fish and work your lure back through their path. Patience pays off with these beauties.
Salmo TruttaSpeckled trout are the bread and butter of our inshore fishing, running 12-20 inches with some reaching 6+ pounds. They love grass flats, creek mouths, and shallow water from 2-8 feet deep. Early morning and late evening are prime times, especially on moving tides during our season. These fish are perfect for all skill levels - they fight well but aren't too aggressive for beginners. Live shrimp under a popping cork is the go-to setup, but they'll also hit soft plastics and topwater plugs. What makes them special is their delicate, sweet meat that's perfect for the dinner table. Don't overcook them though - the meat is soft and can get mushy. Local tip: when the water hits 70+ degrees, work those grass flats slowly with a 1/4 oz jig head and soft plastic.
Archosargus ProbatocephalusThese "convict fish" with their black and white stripes are some of the trickiest to hook but worth the effort. You'll find them around docks, bridge pilings, and oyster bars where they pick off barnacles with their human-like teeth. They typically run 1-3 pounds but can reach 8+ pounds. Spring through early summer is best when they're most active in our area. Sheepshead are notorious bait thieves - they'll clean your hook without you feeling a thing. Fresh shrimp, fiddler crabs, and oysters work best on small hooks. What guests love is the challenge and the reward - they're some of the finest eating fish in our waters with sweet, flaky meat. The key is keeping your bait tight to structure and setting the hook at the first sign of weight.
5.0 out of 5.0Our group had an amazing time! The crew went above and beyond to get us on the fish, even arranging for a friend to bring extra sh...
Captain Keel was incredibly flexible with my schedule when I couldn’t make his usual trip times. After a quick conversation, he ki...
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