Full Day Fishing Trip In Eastern North Carolina
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Eighthour inshore charter targeting Spanish mackerel and bonitoFocus on highdemand coastal species based on seasonal activityIdeal for families and small groups seeking extended fishing time
Picture this: eight solid hours on Eastern North Carolina's productive inshore waters, where the fish are hungry and the action rarely stops. This full-day charter with Wicked East Charters puts you right in the heart of some of the best coastal fishing on the East Coast. We're talking about waters that hold serious numbers of Spanish mackerel, bluefish, bonito, and whatever else decides to cooperate that day. It's the kind of trip where you'll actually have time to dial in your technique, try different spots, and maybe even squeeze in that photo session when you land your personal best. Whether you're flying solo or bringing the family, this top-rated charter gives you the time and space to really get after it.
Eight hours might sound like a long day, but trust me – you'll wish it was longer once you see how productive these waters can be. We launch early to beat the crowds and hit the prime feeding windows when these coastal species are most active. The beauty of a full-day trip is flexibility. If the Spanish mackerel are lighting up the sonar in one spot, we can stick around and capitalize. If the action slows down, we've got time to move and find where the fish are holding. Eastern North Carolina's inshore waters offer everything from shallow grass flats to deeper structure, and we'll work whatever's producing. The vibe is relaxed but focused – this isn't a rushed half-day where you're constantly watching the clock. You'll have time to really settle in, learn the water, and put some serious fish in the boat.
We run a variety of techniques depending on what's biting, but you'll likely see everything from light tackle casting to trolling small spoons and jigs. For Spanish mackerel, we often troll with small Clark spoons or cast gotcha plugs when we mark schools on the fish finder. Bluefish respond well to cut bait and larger spoons, while the bonito and false albacore prefer fast-moving lures that mimic baitfish. All tackle and gear is provided, so you don't need to stress about bringing the right setup. We keep the rods rigged and ready, switching techniques as conditions and species dictate. If you've got your own favorite lures or want to try something specific, bring them along – part of the fun is experimenting with different presentations. The key in these waters is staying mobile and adapting to what the fish want on any given day.
Little tunny, also called false albacore, are absolute rockets when they hit your line. These fish show up in good numbers during fall months, typically running 5-12 pounds of pure muscle. They're part of the tuna family, so expect blistering runs and stubborn fights that'll test your drag system. What makes them special here is how they school up and feed aggressively on the surface – you'll actually see them busting bait before you cast. They're excellent table fare when handled properly and bled immediately.
Spanish mackerel are the bread and butter of Eastern North Carolina inshore fishing. Running anywhere from 1-4 pounds, they might not be the biggest fish you'll catch, but they make up for it with sheer numbers and willingness to bite. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall, and when they're here, they're here in force. Their razor-sharp teeth and lightning-fast strikes keep things interesting, plus they're world-class table fare. Many anglers consider them the best-eating fish in these waters.
Bluefish are the bullies of the bunch, and Eastern North Carolina waters hold some bruisers. These guys can push 10+ pounds and fight dirty – expect multiple runs and head shakes that'll rattle your teeth. They show up in massive schools during their spring and fall migrations, creating some of the most consistent action you'll find anywhere. Blues will hit just about anything you throw at them, making them perfect for kids and beginners, though the bigger ones will challenge even experienced anglers.
Black drum are the heavyweights that'll surprise you. These fish can exceed 40 pounds in local waters and provide slow, powerful fights that'll make you question your tackle choices. They're bottom feeders, so we target them around structure with cut crab or shrimp. Spring and fall produce the best drum fishing, and while they're not speed demons, their size and power create memorable battles. They're also excellent eating in the smaller sizes.
Atlantic bonito are the speed merchants that show up when water temperatures are right. Similar to false albacore but with distinct markings, these fish rarely exceed 6 pounds but make up for size with pure athleticism. They're highly migratory, so timing is everything – when they're here, the action can be non-stop. Bonito prefer clean, moving water and will often be found around current breaks and temperature changes. They're prized for their sashimi-quality meat.
This full-day charter represents serious value for anglers who want more than just a quick taste of Eastern North Carolina's renowned inshore fishing. Eight hours gives you the time to really experience what these waters offer – multiple species, different techniques, and the flexibility to go where the fish are biting. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler, chase personal records, or just spend quality time on some of the East Coast's most productive fishing grounds, this trip delivers. The single-angler capacity means personalized attention and the ability to fish at your own pace. Don't wait until peak season books up – reserve your spot now and get ready for a day of fishing that'll remind you why Eastern North Carolina has such a solid reputation among serious anglers.
Sarda SardaAtlantic Bonito are lightning-fast members of the tuna family that typically weigh 3-8 pounds and stretch up to 30 inches. These silver bullets with dark stripes can hit 40 mph and travel in large schools that feed aggressively on the surface. You'll spot them by the diving birds and their dorsal fins cutting through the water like mini sharks. They prefer cooler water temps in the 60s and show up best during fall migration. While they're not great eating here in the States, they're pure adrenaline on light tackle - fast runs and acrobatic jumps. Once you find a feeding school, they'll hit almost anything you throw at them. Small metals, spoons, or even flies work great. Local tip: when the water's rough, go with heavier metal lures to cut through the chop and stay in the strike zone longer.
Pogonias CromisBlack Drum are the heavyweights of our inshore waters, typically running 10-30 pounds with some giants pushing 50-plus. These bottom-dwellers love oyster beds, muddy flats, and around bridge pilings in brackish areas. Spring is prime time when they school up for spawning - that's when you'll hear them "drumming" underwater. They're bulldogs on the rod, using their weight and power rather than speed. The smaller ones under 15 pounds make excellent table fare with firm, white meat, but the big breeders get tough and stringy. These fish have crushing jaws built for eating crabs and shellfish. Fresh blue crab or clam is your best bet, fished right on the bottom. Here's the key: use circle hooks and let them eat it - they're not in a hurry, so don't set the hook too quick.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are aggressive predators that pack serious attitude in a 3-15 pound package. They roam our waters in schools from late spring through fall, hunting everything from menhaden to small baitfish in feeding frenzies we call "bluefish blitz." You'll find them around sandy beaches, inlets, and over structure where baitfish congregate. These fighters have razor-sharp teeth and won't give up easy once hooked. The smaller "cocktail blues" under 5 pounds are fantastic eating with mild, flaky meat, while bigger ones have stronger flavor. Watch for diving birds and churning water - that's usually blues tearing through a school of bait. Cut bait like mullet or bunker works great, but they'll hit spoons and poppers too. Pro tip: use a short wire leader and watch your fingers when handling them.
Euthynnus AlletteratusLittle Tunny, also called false albacore or bonita, are scrappy members of the tuna family that typically run 10-12 pounds around here. They travel in schools near the surface, especially around jetties, inlets, and sandbars where baitfish gather. These fish are strong swimmers that'll give you a real fight on light tackle. You'll find them most active during fall migration when water temps start dropping. While their red meat isn't for everyone, it's actually quite good when prepared fresh - just make sure to bleed and ice them right away. When you see birds working the surface and hear splashing, that's usually Little Tunny feeding. Try trolling small feathers or casting metals into the frenzy, but don't be surprised when they take off on screaming runs.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish Mackerel are fast, aggressive fish that average 1-2 feet long and weigh 2-4 pounds, though we see bigger ones during peak season. They school up near the surface around structures, flats, and oyster bars, especially in warmer months from late spring through fall. These speedsters can hit 40 mph and put up a spirited fight on light tackle. What really makes them popular is the excellent eating - mild, flaky white meat that grills, fries, or smokes beautifully. They're perfect for families since kids can handle them easily. Look for birds diving or bait jumping, then cast small spoons or jigs into the action. Here's a local tip: use a short wire leader because their sharp teeth will cut through mono in a heartbeat. They're not picky eaters when they're feeding.
North Carolina