Hey there, anglers! Ready for a night to remember on the Outer Banks? Our 4-hour private inshore trip is all about chasing those big citation Red drum when the sun goes down. We're talking deck lights, good tunes, and the thrill of battling monster reds under the stars. This is prime time fishing in August and September, and trust me, there's nothing quite like it.
Picture this: You and up to three buddies hop aboard at 7 PM, just as the day's heat is fading. We'll cruise out to some killer spots where the big reds like to feed after dark. Our boat's decked out with lights that attract bait and create the perfect ambiance for night fishing. It's not just about the catch – it's the whole experience. The sound of the water, the glow of the lights, and the excitement when a line goes tight. Oh, and heads up – we often hook into some blacktip sharks too, adding an extra punch to the adventure.
Alright, let's talk tactics. Night fishing for Red drum is a whole different ball game. We'll be using heavy tackle – think big rods and reels spooled with sturdy line. Bait-wise, we're talking cut mullet, menhaden, or live bait if we can get our hands on it. The technique? It's all about patience and feeling the bite. We'll set up our lines, kick back, and wait for that telltale thump. When it happens, hold on tight! These reds can pull like a freight train. Don't worry if you're new to this – I'll walk you through every step, from casting to fighting the fish.
Red Drum (Redfish): These bad boys are the stars of our show. In August and September, we're targeting the big ones – we're talking 40+ inches and weights that'll make your arms ache. Red drum, also known as channel bass, are powerhouses. They love to cruise the shallows at night, hunting for crabs and baitfish. When you hook one, be ready for a fight. They'll run hard and long, testing your stamina and your gear. The best part? That copper-red color gleaming under the lights when you finally bring one boatside – it's a sight you won't forget.
Blacktip Shark: While we're primarily after Red drum, blacktips often crash the party – and trust me, that's a good thing. These sharks are fast, acrobatic, and put up one heck of a fight. They typically range from 3 to 5 feet long in our waters, but don't let their size fool you. When a blacktip takes your bait, get ready for some high-flying action. They're known for their spectacular leaps and quick runs. It's catch-and-release for these guys, but the thrill of bringing one in is worth its weight in gold.
Look, I've been running these trips for years, and there's a reason folks book again and again. It's not just about the fish – though that's a big part of it. It's about those moments when the night is quiet, the stars are out, and suddenly your reel screams to life. It's about the laughs shared with friends or family as you battle a big red. And let's be honest, it's about the bragging rights when you land that citation-sized drum. Plus, night fishing adds that extra layer of excitement – every sound, every splash could be the big one.
Alright, here's the deal – this trip is only available in August and September. That's when the big reds are most active in our waters, and the conditions are just right for night fishing. We're talking prime time, folks. And with only four spots per trip, they fill up fast. So if you're itching to tangle with some monster Red drum under the stars, don't wait. Grab your crew, pick a date, and let's make it happen. Trust me, whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time out, this is one fishing trip you don't want to miss. See you on the water!
Blacktip sharks are exciting catches that'll get your heart racing. These streamlined predators typically run 4-5 feet long but can hit 9 feet and 270 pounds. You'll find them patrolling artificial reefs and hanging around in 100-200 feet of water off the North Carolina coast. They're known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful runs. August and September, when we're targeting big reds, is also prime time for blacktips. Anglers love the thrill of hooking into one of these toothy critters. To boost your chances, chum the water with oily fish like mackerel or herring. Use a heavy braided line (at least 50-pound test) and wire leader. Circle hooks are a must - they set themselves in the tough corner of the shark's mouth. Fair warning: blacktips can get pretty fired up during a feeding frenzy, so stay alert if you're bringing one to the boat!
Redfish, also called red drum, are a North Carolina favorite. These copper-colored beauties with the signature black tail spot can grow up to 45 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow water, often just 1-4 feet deep, hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and old structures. August and September are prime time for big "citation" reds. They put up a great fight and taste delicious too. Anglers love sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water or hooking into a monster bull red at night. To up your odds, try live bait like mullet or crabs fished on the bottom. When using artificials, a gold spoon is hard to beat - it mimics the flash of baitfish perfectly. Just remember, these guys have excellent eyesight, so stealth is key when you're stalking the flats.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: 2023 Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250