Ready for a quick escape on the water? Our 2-hour OBX charter is perfect for families and couples looking to squeeze in some fishing action without dedicating a full day. We'll cruise around Roanoke Island, giving you a unique view of the Outer Banks from the calm inshore waters. It's just enough time to wet a line, catch some fish, and create lasting memories—ideal if you've got fidgety kids or a packed vacation schedule.
On this compact charter, we'll zip out to some of my favorite spots around Roanoke Island. You'll get a taste of OBX fishing without the long commitment. We're talking about targeting red drum, flounder, speckled trout, and sheepshead—all within a stone's throw of the shore. It's a great intro to inshore fishing and perfect for families who want to mix things up from the usual beach day. Plus, you'll get to see the Outer Banks from a whole new angle, away from the crowded roads and beaches.
We'll be using light tackle and simple techniques that even beginners can pick up quickly. I'll show you how to cast, work the bait, and reel in your catch. We might drift fish over some productive flats or anchor up near structure where the fish like to hang out. The beauty of inshore fishing is that it's generally calm, so seasickness usually isn't an issue. And with the shallow waters, we're never far from land—which means more time fishing and less time traveling.
Folks love this trip because it's a low-pressure way to experience OBX fishing. There's no need to wake up at the crack of dawn or spend all day on the water. It's just right for testing the waters (pun intended) to see if fishing's your thing. Plus, the variety of species we can catch keeps it interesting. One minute you might be reeling in a hard-fighting redfish, the next you could be outsmarting a crafty flounder. It's also a hit with photographers—the backdrop of Roanoke Island and the surrounding waters make for some great shots.
Sheepshead: These striped bandits are a blast to catch and a challenge to hook. They hang around pilings and structures, using their human-like teeth to crunch barnacles and crabs. The best time to target them is late spring through fall. Anglers love the fight they put up and their unique appearance—they look like they're wearing prison stripes!
Sea Trout (Speckled Trout): These speckled beauties are a staple of inshore fishing. They're known for their delicate bite and sudden bursts of speed when hooked. Fall is prime time for bigger trout, but we catch them year-round. Folks get a kick out of their spotted pattern and the way they hit lures on the surface.
Redfish (Red Drum): The bulldogs of the flats, redfish are prized for their strong runs and copper color. In the OBX, we can catch them in all seasons, but fall is spectacular when they school up. Anglers of all levels get pumped when they see that signature spot on the tail. The "drum" in their name comes from the grunting sound they make—pretty cool to hear when you bring one in the boat!
This 2-hour trip is a customer favorite for good reason. It's the perfect taste of OBX fishing without taking up your whole day. Whether you're a family looking for a kid-friendly adventure or a couple wanting to add some excitement to your vacation, this charter delivers. You'll get hands-on fishing experience, stunning views of Roanoke Island, and a chance to catch some of the Outer Banks' most popular inshore species. Don't let your OBX trip pass without getting out on the water. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so grab your crew and book now. Who knows? You might just catch the fishing bug and be planning your next, longer trip before you even get back to the dock!
Redfish, or red drum, are a prized catch in the Outer Banks. They're easy to spot with that black spot near the tail. Most are 28-33 inches when full grown, but they can get much bigger - the record is 94 pounds! You'll find them in super shallow water, sometimes with their backs out of water. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and old structures in 1-4 feet of water. Fall is fantastic for redfish as they school up. Anglers go crazy for their strong fight and great taste. They'll hit all kinds of lures, from topwater to jigs. My go-to trick is using a weedless jig in the shallows - lets you fish the thick grass where they hide. Watch for their tails sticking up as they feed. Once you hook one, hang on tight - these fish don't give up easy!
Sea trout, also called speckled trout, are a favorite around here. They typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. In winter, they school up in deeper channels. These fish put up a good fight and taste great too - mild and tender when cooked right. Look for them year-round, but fall and spring are peak seasons as water temperatures change. They love to chase lures, making them exciting for all anglers. Try soft plastics, topwater plugs, or live shrimp. My local trick is to fish the tide changes, when trout are most active feeding. Move slowly and quietly - they spook easy. Once you find a school, you can often catch several before they wise up.
Sheepshead are a blast to catch around Roanoke Island. These striped fish, nicknamed "convict fish," usually weigh 1-8 pounds but can get up to 20. Look for them near docks, bridges, and any structure with barnacles - that's their favorite snack. They've got human-like teeth perfect for crushing crustaceans. Spring is prime time as they form big spawning groups offshore. Anglers love targeting sheepshead for their tough fight and tasty white meat. They're notorious bait stealers though, so set the hook fast when you feel a bite. My top tip: use a small, sharp hook with fiddler crab or shrimp. Get as close to the pilings as you can without spooking them. Patience is key - these fish are smart, but the reward is worth it. Great eating and fun for all skill levels.