Half Day Offshore Fishing in Morehead City
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fourhour offshore fishing targeting sailfish, mahi mahi, and wahooAll fishing gear included with trips up to 14 miles offshoreMaximum six guests with North Carolina saltwater license required
When you're looking for a solid half-day offshore adventure that won't eat up your whole weekend, this 4-hour guided trip out of Morehead City hits the sweet spot. Captain and crew at Stack N Bills know these waters like the back of their hand, and they'll put you on fish whether you're after Spanish Mackerel close to shore or chasing pelagics like Mahi and Sailfish further out. With room for up to 6 anglers, it's perfect for families, buddy trips, or corporate groups who want to experience what makes North Carolina's Crystal Coast a top-rated fishing destination.
This isn't your typical inshore grind – you'll be covering water from just off the beach out to 14 miles offshore, depending on where the fish are biting and what conditions look like. The crew comes prepared with all the tackle you'll need, so whether you're dropping lines for bottom fish or trolling for pelagics, they've got you covered. Morehead City's location puts you right in the sweet spot where the Gulf Stream edges closer to shore, creating that perfect mix of structure and blue water that holds everything from Blackfin Tuna to the occasional Sailfish. The boat heads out with a game plan, but like any good fishing trip, you've got to stay flexible and follow the bite. Don't forget to grab your North Carolina saltwater license at Freeman's Bait & Tackle before you head to the dock – it's required and they're conveniently located right there in town.
The beauty of this trip is the variety of techniques you'll use depending on what's running. For the pelagic action, expect to troll with a spread of lures and baits designed to attract Mahi, Wahoo, and Sailfish. The crew will set up the outriggers and run a pattern that covers the most productive water. When targeting bottom species, you'll be dropping heavy tackle with circle hooks and fresh bait to get down to where the bigger fish hang out. Spanish Mackerel and Blackfin Tuna often hit on lighter tackle, which makes for some fast-paced action that keeps everyone busy. The crew handles all the rigging and knows exactly what presentations work best in these waters. They'll coach you through fighting techniques, especially if you hook into something with some serious pulling power like a Wahoo or Sailfish.
Mahi Mahi, also known as Common Dolphinfish, are absolute customer favorites on these trips, and for good reason. These fish are pure eye candy with their brilliant gold and green colors, and they fight like they're twice their size. Mahi typically show up in late spring through fall when water temperatures climb, and they love floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks. A good-sized bull Mahi can push 20-30 pounds and will give you a battle that includes multiple jumps and long runs. What makes them even better is they're excellent table fare – sweet, flaky white meat that grills up perfectly.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the offshore world, and when one hits your spread, you'll know it instantly. These fish can reach speeds over 40 mph and have teeth that'll slice through wire if you're not prepared. They're most active in fall and winter months around Morehead City, often showing up when you're least expecting them. A typical Wahoo runs 15-40 pounds, though bigger ones aren't uncommon. They're ambush predators that hit hard and fast, making for some of the most exciting hookups you'll experience.
Atlantic Sailfish are the crown jewel of any offshore trip, and while they're not guaranteed, the waters off Morehead City see good numbers during their migration periods. These fish are pure magic when they're lit up and dancing on the surface. Sailfish average 6-8 feet long and put on an aerial display that'll have everyone on the boat scrambling for their phones. Most are released after a quick photo, but the memory of watching a Sailfish greyhound across the surface stays with you forever. Peak season typically runs from late spring through early fall when baitfish are thick.
This half-day trip gives you a real taste of what makes Morehead City one of the East Coast's premier fishing destinations without requiring a full-day commitment. The crew at Stack N Bills knows how to make the most of these 4 hours, whether that means hitting multiple spots or staying put when the bite is hot. With all tackle included and experienced guides who know these waters inside and out, you're set up for success from the moment you step aboard. Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure your dates work before you commit. The boat fills up fast during peak season, especially weekends, so don't wait too long to secure your spot for what could be the highlight of your Morehead City fishing adventure.
Get ready to fish the waters off Morehead City aboard this beautifully restored 46-foot Buddy Davis convertible sportfisher. This classic boat was completely rebuilt in 2021 and packs an 800HP Detroit diesel that'll cruise you out to the fishing grounds at a steady 22 knots. Whether you're targeting Spanish Mackerel close to shore or heading up to 14 miles out for Mahi and Sailfish, this boat handles it all with room for up to 6 anglers. The flybridge gives you that perfect vantage point for spotting fish, while the fish finder and radar help locate the action. After working the lines, cool off with the AC, grab a cold drink from the fridge, or take a break in the cabin. All the fishing gear is provided - just bring your NC saltwater license and get ready to see what these Carolina waters have to offer.
Istiophorus AlbicansAtlantic sailfish are the ultimate trophy fish, averaging 7-8 feet long with that signature sail-like dorsal fin that makes them unmistakable. These blue-water hunters prefer the warmer offshore waters we fish, typically 30-65 feet down but they'll chase bait to the surface. Late fall through early spring brings the best action as they migrate through our area following temperature breaks and baitfish schools. What gets anglers hooked is their aerial show - they'll jump, dive, and put on a display you won't forget. While most folks release them, it's the fight that counts. Here's the trick: when a sail shows up behind your spread, keep the boat moving and let them get properly hooked before you get too excited.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi mahi are some of the most beautiful fish you'll see out here, with brilliant golden sides and electric blue-green backs that put on a light show when they're brought aboard. These fast-growing fish typically run 15-29 pounds and love hanging around floating debris, weedlines, and current breaks in our offshore waters. We find them best during warmer months when water temps climb, usually 8-14 miles out. What makes them so popular is the aggressive fight they put up plus that sweet, mild white meat that's perfect on the grill. Pro tip: when you see frigate birds working floating sargassum, get your lines ready - mahi are likely feeding underneath.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are the speed demons of our offshore waters, capable of hitting 60 mph when they take your bait. These sleek fish typically run 3-5 feet with razor-sharp teeth and distinctive blue stripes along their silver sides. You'll find them in open water from 30-200 feet, often around structure or temperature breaks 10+ miles offshore. Fall and winter months tend to be most productive here in North Carolina waters. Anglers love wahoo for their blistering runs and that firm, white meat that's considered some of the best eating in the ocean. Key tip: always use wire leaders - their teeth will slice through mono or fluorocarbon in a heartbeat, and troll fast at 12-15 knots to trigger strikes.
Atlantic Beach