Beginner-Friendly Nearshore Fishing | Wrightsville

Half-Day Fishing: Reel in the Fun off Wrightsville Beach

Get ready to wet a line and feel that first tug on your rod just off the stunning shores of Wrightsville Beach. This half-day trip with Ocean Stinger Charters is perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from total newbies to seasoned pros. We'll cruise up to 5 miles offshore, targeting some of North Carolina's most popular game fish. With room for up to 6 guests, it's an ideal way to spend a morning or afternoon with family and friends, making memories and hopefully landing some impressive catches.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as we leave the dock, you'll feel the excitement building. The crew's got everything set up - rods, reels, bait, and tackle are all included, so you can focus on spotting fish and perfecting your technique. We'll be targeting Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, and Bluefish, all known for putting up a good fight. Don't worry if you're new to fishing; our experienced crew is patient and always ready to lend a hand. They'll show you the ropes, from baiting your hook to reeling in your catch. And for the more experienced anglers, they've got plenty of local knowledge to share about where the fish are biting.

Nearshore Know-How

We'll be using a mix of trolling and bottom fishing techniques, depending on what's working best that day. Trolling involves dragging lures or bait behind the boat as we cruise along, perfect for species like Spanish and King Mackerel. For Bluefish, we might switch to bottom fishing, dropping our lines straight down and waiting for that telltale bite. The crew's always keeping an eye on the water, looking for signs of fish like birds diving or bait fish jumping. They'll get you in the right spot to maximize your chances of a great catch. And remember, in fishing, sometimes the biggest thrill is in the chase - even if the fish don't cooperate, the experience of being out on the water is hard to beat.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks love this trip because it's the perfect mix of action and relaxation. You're close enough to shore that the ride isn't too rough, but far enough out to get into some serious fishing. It's a great way to introduce kids to the sport - they'll love the excitement of reeling in their first fish. And for adults, there's nothing like the camaraderie that develops when you're all working together to land a big one. Plus, the views of Wrightsville Beach from the water are something special. Just remember to bring your camera - you'll want to capture those "fish selfies" to show off back home!

Species You'll Want to Hook

King Mackerel, or "Kings" as we call 'em, are the prize catch on many of our trips. These sleek, silvery fish can grow up to 5 feet long and put up one heck of a fight. They're known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. Kings are most active in the warmer months, from late spring through fall. When you hook one, hold on tight - these fish can make your reel scream!

Spanish Mackerel are the smaller cousins of the Kings, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and taste. These fish travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be fast and furious. They're great for beginners because they're easier to handle, but still give a good fight. Spanish Mackerel are most abundant from April to September and are delicious on the grill.

Bluefish are the bulldogs of the sea - they're aggressive, hard-fighting, and always hungry. These choppers (named for their sharp teeth) can be found year-round but are most active in the spring and fall. Bluefish often feed in a frenzy, churning up the water's surface - it's a sight to see! They're fun to catch on light tackle and put up a spirited fight all the way to the boat.

While not as common, we occasionally hook into Mahi Mahi, also known as Dolphinfish. These beautiful, acrobatic fish are a real treat when we find them. With their vibrant colors and delicious meat, landing a Mahi is always a highlight of any trip. They're typically found in warmer waters, so we see them more in the late summer and early fall.

Time to Book Your Spot

Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, want a fun day out with friends, or are aiming to put some fresh fish on the table, this trip's got you covered. With everything provided and a crew that knows these waters like the back of their hand, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. Just remember, the fish are always biting, but spots on the boat fill up fast. So don't wait - grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's get out there and make some fishing memories off Wrightsville Beach!