4.0(4 Reviews)Trolling Adventures Nearshore and Offshore
4.0(4 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Nearshore and offshore trolling for multiple fish speciesCaptain Phillips guides trips targeting mackerel and mahiSix-person capacity accommodates small fishing groups
Get ready to experience some of the best trolling action around when you step aboard with Captain Phillips and the Tail Chaser Charter Fishing crew. This isn't your typical fishing trip – we're talking about a full day of non-stop action targeting some of the most sought-after species in these waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this charter welcomes everyone ready to chase after King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Mahi, Cobia, and Amberjack. With space for up to 6 anglers, it's perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to get their lines wet in productive waters.
Captain Phillips knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you on fish from the moment those first lines hit the water. The beauty of this trip is the variety – one minute you might be battling a screaming King Mackerel, the next you could be wrestling with a stubborn Cobia or watching a colorful Mahi light up as it comes to the boat. The crew runs both nearshore and offshore depending on conditions and where the fish are biting best. You'll cruise along beautiful coastline, and don't be surprised if you spot dolphins playing in the wake or sea turtles cruising by. The action tends to be pretty consistent once we find the right water temperature breaks and structure where these species like to hang out. Captain Phillips and his crew keep things fun and relaxed while making sure everyone gets their shot at hooking up.
This charter is all about trolling, which means we'll be covering water and pulling lures behind the boat at various speeds to trigger strikes from predatory fish. The crew has all the tackle dialed in – from high-speed wahoo rigs to slower presentations for Cobia and Amberjack around structure. They'll run a spread of different lures and baits, adjusting colors, depths, and speeds based on what's working that day. You don't need to bring anything except sunscreen and a good attitude – all rods, reels, tackle, and bait are provided. The boat is rigged with quality gear that can handle everything from smaller Spanish Mackerel to big Kings and hard-fighting Amberjack. When fish are located, the crew will coach you through the fight and make sure you get great photos of your catch. Live bait is used when conditions are right, giving you the best shot at hooking into something memorable.
"My husband and the guys he took with him had a wonderful time!! The experience was great and he will definitely book another trip!" - Susan
"Our family of 6 (our adult kids and their girlfriend & boyfriend) all had a great time! Action was pretty much non- stop from the time the first line was dropped in the water! Great boat and both Captain Brandon and his first mate were Fantastic. We enjoyed our catch that evening at a local restaurant and then also two days later when we cooked them up at home. Great trip!" - Tracey
"Had a great time on the Tail Chaser with Brandon & Dave!! Great weather and beautiful views of the coastline. Caught some fish and saw some dolphins and sea turtles too. Highly recommend this professional crew!" - Molly
King Mackerel are the crown jewel of this fishery and for good reason. These silver rockets can stretch over three feet long and put up an absolutely blistering fight when hooked. Kings are most active during warmer months and love to cruise along temperature breaks and structure edges. When one hits your trolled bait, you'll know it instantly – they make scorching runs that will test your drag and your arms. The crew knows exactly where to find them based on water temperature, bait movements, and seasonal patterns. Landing a good-sized King Mackerel is something every angler should experience at least once.
Mahi Mahi bring the color and acrobatics to your fishing day. These beautiful fish light up in brilliant greens, blues, and yellows when excited, and they're absolute aerial artists when hooked. Mahi are typically found around floating debris, weed lines, or temperature breaks in the offshore waters. They're curious fish that often travel in schools, so when you hook one, there's a good chance more are nearby. Bulls can reach impressive sizes and provide arm-burning fights, while the smaller schoolies are perfect for non-stop action. They're also fantastic table fare, making them a favorite target for both sport and the dinner table.
Cobia are the bruisers of this bunch – thick-bodied, powerful fish that will test your tackle and your technique. These brown sharks-looking fish are incredibly strong and have a habit of making long, determined runs toward structure when hooked. They're often found around wrecks, buoys, or cruising near the surface, and they can be surprisingly curious about the boat. Cobia are excellent eating and can grow quite large, with fish over 40 pounds not uncommon in these waters. They're most active during spring and fall migrations, making them a premier target during peak seasons.
Spanish Mackerel might be smaller than their King cousins, but they make up for it with sheer numbers and eating quality. These chrome-sided speedsters are perfect for getting kids and beginners hooked on fishing, as they bite aggressively and are found in good numbers during their peak seasons. Spanish Mackerel school up and feed heavily on small baitfish, making them ideal targets for light tackle trolling. They're also some of the best eating fish in the ocean when prepared fresh, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling or making fish cakes.
Bluefish are the ultimate aggressive predators, known for their voracious appetites and willingness to attack anything that moves. These toothy
Captain Phillips' 38' Luhrs 380 Tournament is your ticket to some serious fishing action, whether you're working the nearshore waters or heading out to the deep blue. This tournament-rigged sportfisher comes loaded with everything you need for a successful day chasing King and Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Mahi, Cobia, and Amberjack. The boat features a full fish finder setup and GPS to put you on the fish, plus VHF radio to stay connected. When you need a break from the action, cool off with onboard AC, grab cold drinks from the fridge, or catch up on the game with the multimedia entertainment system. The flybridge gives you excellent visibility for spotting working birds and baitfish. With comfortable sleeping quarters, a full galley, head with shower, and plenty of ice storage for your catch, this boat handles everything from half-day nearshore trips to extended offshore adventures. Built for up to 6 anglers, she's got the space and amenities to keep everyone comfortable while you're putting fish in the box.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are aggressive feeders that travel in schools and put up a solid scrap for their size. Most run 3-10 pounds with occasional bigger fish pushing 15-20. You'll find them in bays, near shore structure, and surf zones during their summer runs. They're not picky eaters and will hit cut bait, spoons, or poppers with equal enthusiasm. What guests enjoy is their willingness to bite and decent table fare when prepared fresh - the smaller ones taste better. Late summer brings "snapper blues" perfect for kids to catch. Key tip: use a wire leader because those razor-sharp teeth will cut through mono instantly. Handle them carefully - they'll bite anything that gets near their mouth.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the ocean's bulldogs - big, brown, and built for power. These loners average 30-60 pounds and cruise shallow waters around 30 feet, hanging near structure like buoys, wrecks, and channel markers. Spring migration brings the best sight-fishing opportunities when they're near the surface. What makes them special is that aggressive fight and some of the best eating fish in the ocean - firm, white meat that tastes like a cross between grouper and shark. Since they're curious fish, they'll often follow your boat. Here's the key: when you spot one, drop a bucktail jig right in front of its nose and work it slow. Color doesn't matter much, but patience does.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are the ocean's most colorful fighters, flashing gold and electric blue until they hit the boat. These surface dwellers average 15-29 pounds and love hanging around floating debris, weedlines, and current breaks in warm offshore waters. Spring through fall brings the best action, especially when water temps hit the mid-70s. What gets anglers hooked is their acrobatic jumps and that sweet, firm white meat that grills perfectly. They travel in small schools, so where there's one, there's usually more. My go-to trick is making your bait skip across the surface like a flying fish - mahi can't resist that action. Once you hook up, get the boat to the school fast.
Scomberomorus CavallaThese fast-swimming predators average around 30 pounds but can hit 90+ pounds, making them one of the most sought-after gamefish. Kings cruise in 40-150 feet of water, often near structure or current breaks. We find them year-round in warmer months, with peak action during spring and fall migrations. What makes them special is their blistering speed and powerful runs - they'll test your drag and stamina. The meat is excellent when prepared fresh, though watch the mercury content. Pro tip: use a dual-hook rig with wire leader since they love to hit bait from behind. Keep that drag loose on the initial run or they'll snap you off in seconds.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are speed demons that run in big schools near the surface, making for fast action when you find them. These silver rockets with yellow spots typically weigh 2-4 pounds and love trolling nearshore waters, especially around structure and baitfish schools. Summer and early fall are prime time when they move through following warm water. Anglers love them because they hit hard, fight quick, and make excellent table fare with mild, flaky meat perfect for smoking or grilling. They're also great for beginners since they're aggressive biters. Best trick is using small, fast-moving spoons or jigs - keep them moving because these fish are built for speed and won't chase slow baits.
4.0 out of 5.0My husband and the guys he took with him had a wonderful time!! The experience was great and he will definitely book another trip...
Our family of 6 (our adult kids and their girlfriend & boyfriend) all had a great time! Action was pretty much non- stop from the...
Had a great time on the Tail Chaser with Brandon & Dave!! Great weather and beautiful views of the coastline. Caught some fish and...
Captain Philips did not take us due to boat mechanical issues so passed us along to Captain David. I’m not exactly sure how this w...
Carolina Beach, NC