5 HR Nearshore Fishing with Wasabi Sportfishing
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fivehour nearshore fishing targeting multiple species including Cobia and DrumFamilyfriendly trip with wildlife spotting opportunities near scenic islandsFlexible departure times with maximum capacity of six guests
When you want more than just a quick fishing trip, this 5-hour nearshore adventure delivers the extra time on the water that serious anglers crave. Perfect for families and seasoned fishermen alike, this customer favorite keeps you within sight of land while targeting some of the region's most sought-after species. With flexible departure times at 10:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m., you can plan your day around the bite and your schedule. Plus, with a maximum of 6 guests, you'll get the personalized attention that makes all the difference between a good day and a legendary one.
This top-rated nearshore experience strikes the perfect balance between accessible fishing and serious action. You'll spend your day working the productive waters within sight of those scenic islands where wild horses roam and dolphins play. The extra hour compared to shorter trips means more time to dial in your technique, more opportunities to land that fish of a lifetime, and more chances to create those stories you'll be telling for years. The nearshore zone is where the action happens – close enough to shore that younger kids stay comfortable, but far enough out to encounter the quality fish that make your drag scream. Expect to see plenty of wildlife between bites, from playful dolphins checking out your boat to the famous wild horses grazing along the island shores.
Nearshore fishing is all about versatility, and your captain knows exactly which techniques produce results in these waters. You'll likely be working with light to medium tackle – perfect for the Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish that love to hit fast-moving lures and live bait. When targeting Cobia, expect to switch to heavier gear and sight-fishing techniques as these curious fish cruise the surface near structure. For Flounder and Drum, you'll drop down to the bottom with fresh bait and learn the subtle art of feeling those light bites. The beauty of this trip length is having time to master different approaches – start the day trolling for pelagics, then anchor up over productive bottom for the reef species. Your experienced captain provides all the gear and knows exactly when to switch tactics based on conditions and what the fish are telling you.
Snowy Grouper are the prize catch of these waters, though they're typically found in deeper offshore zones. When conditions align and you encounter one of these beauties, you'll understand why anglers travel from across the country to target them. These deep-dwelling fighters can reach impressive sizes and put up battles that test both your tackle and your endurance. Their firm, white meat makes them a favorite at the dinner table, but many anglers release these slow-growing fish to fight another day.
Cobia are the gentle giants that get everyone excited when they appear near the boat. These bronze-colored bruisers cruise the surface around structure and are known for their curious nature – often swimming right up to investigate your boat. Spring and early summer offer the best Cobia action as they move through during their annual migration. When hooked, expect long, powerful runs and bulldogging fights that will have you questioning your gear choices. Most Cobia in these waters run 20-40 pounds, with larger specimens always possible.
Spanish Mackerel are the speed demons that keep the action hot throughout the trip. These silver rockets attack lures with ferocious strikes and acrobatic fights that entertain anglers of all skill levels. Peak season runs from spring through fall, and they're absolutely perfect for kids and beginners to cut their teeth on. Their distinctive spots and razor-sharp teeth make them instantly recognizable, and their willingness to bite makes them a charter boat favorite.
Bluefish are the aggressive predators that travel in schools and provide some of the most consistent action you'll find. When you locate a school of blues, every rod on the boat can be bent at once. These hard-fighting fish are known for their powerful runs and never-say-die attitude. They're excellent on light tackle and provide fantastic sport for the whole family. Blues are most active during spring and fall migrations, but resident populations provide action throughout the season.
This world-class nearshore fishing experience combines the best of both worlds – enough time on the water to really get into the groove, but close enough to shore that everyone stays comfortable. With only 6 spots available per trip, this renowned charter books up fast during peak season. Whether you're planning a family adventure or a serious fishing expedition with your crew, the flexible departure times make it easy to plan around tides, weather, and your schedule. The extra hour compared to shorter trips often makes the difference between a good day and an amazing one – book your spot now and get ready for some of the best nearshore fishing action around.
Your 50-foot Custom Carolina fishing machine comes loaded with everything needed for a solid day chasing bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and cobia in nearshore waters. This beauty features a spacious flybridge for scanning the horizon, plus a fish finder and radar to locate the best spots when visibility drops. The air-conditioned cabin offers relief from the sun, while the onboard kitchen, refrigerator, and icebox keep your catch fresh and drinks cold. Between fishing sessions, kick back with the multimedia system or catch some TV. The boat includes a full head with shower, plus sleeping quarters if anyone needs a quick nap. VHF radio keeps you connected, and GPS navigation ensures smooth runs to productive fishing grounds. With room for six anglers, there's plenty of deck space to work multiple lines while staying comfortable. Perfect setup for targeting drum and flounder while watching for dolphins around those scenic barrier islands.
Pomatomus SaltatrixAggressive feeders that travel in schools and put up a solid scrap. Most run up to 20 pounds with razor-sharp teeth, so watch your fingers. They show up in summer around sandy harbors, bays, and tidal areas. What makes them fun is their feeding frenzies - when they're on, the action gets wild. Decent table fare when prepared right, especially the smaller ones. You'll catch them from late spring through fall when they follow baitfish. Circle hooks are required - only three per day, no size limit. Cut bait works great, especially oily fish like mackerel. My advice: when you hook one, there's usually more around, so get multiple lines in the water fast.
Rachycentron CanadumThese bronze bulldozers are loners that cruise shallow structure and reefs, usually in 30 feet or less. They average around 30-40 pounds but can push 100. Spring through early summer is prime time when they're spawning and moving through. What guests love most is sight-fishing for them - you'll actually see these fish cruising just under the surface. They fight hard and make some of the best table fare around, with firm white meat. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and current breaks. My go-to setup is a 4-8 oz bucktail jig in any color - they're not picky. Pro tip: when you spot one, get your bait ahead of where it's swimming and let the fish come to you.
Epinephelus These deep-water bruisers live in 300-600 feet around rocky bottom structure, making them a serious challenge to land. Most run 30 pounds and 3 feet, but we've seen them hit 70 pounds. Season runs May through August with a strict one-fish-per-vessel limit. What makes them special? That fight from the depths is something else - they'll test your arms on the way up. The meat is fantastic eating too. Here's the key: use electric reels if you can, 50-pound setup with 80-pound leader. Mackerel, bonito, or whole squid work best for bait. My tip? Drop your chicken rigs with 5-pound lead and be ready for a long battle when one grabs hold.
Scomberomorus MaculatusFast-moving schooling fish that hit hard and fight quick. They run 1-2 feet and 8-11 pounds on average, swimming in large schools near the surface. You'll find them around structure, flats, and oyster bars in warmer months. These speedsters are fantastic for families - consistent action and great eating with mild, flaky meat. They're packed with omega-3s too. Spring through fall is best when water temps warm up. Light tackle works perfect - medium spinning gear with 12-20 pound braid. Shiny spoons and small jigs are money makers. Live shrimp and cut bait like squid work great too. Here's my trick: when you find a school, drift to them quietly instead of motoring over - keeps them from spooking.
Greenville