%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F1836%2Fimages%2Foc.jpeg&w=1200&q=100)
Renowned Inshore Fishing Charter in Outer Banks
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Wanchese, NC, United States
- Updated Date: November 28, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F00be399a-35fa-4239-8aa4-1919acbfff4f%2Fratecard%2Fobxr3.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Outer Banks Catch of the Day
Half-Day Fishing Adventure in Wanchese, NC
Ready for some rod-bending action in the Outer Banks? Join one of our top-notch captains for a morning of inshore fishing that'll have you hooked from the get-go. Whether you're chasing redfish in the shallows or battling cobia near the inlet, this 4-hour trip packs a serious punch. We'll put you on the fish using tried-and-true local techniques, all while cruising in a slick custom Parker that's perfect for these waters. With room for up to 4 anglers, it's an ideal outing for families, friends, or anyone looking to experience some of the best fishing the OBX has to offer.
What to Expect on the Water
As soon as we push off from the dock in Wanchese, you'll feel the excitement building. Our experienced captains know these waters like the back of their hand, and they're always dialed in on where the fish are biting. We'll start by assessing the conditions – tide, wind, and time of year all play a role in our game plan. Depending on what's hot, we might head to the skinny water for some sight fishing, work the deep holes near the inlet, or even venture a bit offshore if the nearshore bite is on fire. You'll get to try a variety of fishing methods, from light tackle jigging to live bait presentations. And don't worry if you're new to fishing – our guides are great teachers and will have you casting like a pro in no time.
Techniques That Put Fish in the Boat
On this trip, we're all about using the right tool for the job. When we're after redfish, you might find yourself tossing soft plastics on light tackle, feeling that telltale thump when a big red inhales your lure. For speckled trout, we often use live shrimp under a popping cork – it's a deadly technique when the trout are schooled up. If cobia are in town, we'll break out the heavy gear and sight cast to these bruisers with live eels or big bucktails. And don't be surprised if we switch it up mid-trip; these waters are full of surprises, and we're always ready to adapt. We provide all the gear, from rods and reels to terminal tackle, so you just need to bring your A-game and maybe a lucky hat.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Redfish (Red Drum): These copper-colored beauties are the stars of the show in Wanchese. They range from "puppy drum" in the 18-inch class all the way up to bull reds over 40 inches. Redfish love to cruise the flats and structure, often tailing in shallow water. The fall "bull red" run is legendary here, with big schools of mature fish entering the inlets to spawn. Fighting a big red on light tackle is an experience you won't soon forget – they pull like a freight train and often make blistering runs that'll have your drag singing.
Cobia: When cobia show up in late spring, it's game on. These powerful fish can grow over 100 pounds, and they're known for their hard fights and acrobatic jumps. We often spot them cruising near the surface or around channel markers. Sight casting to a big cobia is an adrenaline rush like no other. They're also excellent table fare, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling.
Speckled Trout: Also known as spotted seatrout, these fish are prized for both their sporty fight and their delicious flavor. We target them year-round, but the fall and spring can be especially productive. Specks love to hang around oyster beds and grass flats, often hitting topwater lures with explosive strikes. They're a blast on light tackle and make for some of the best fish tacos you'll ever taste.
Black Drum: The redfish's cousin, black drum, are hard-fighting fish that can grow to enormous sizes. We often find them around bridge pilings and oyster beds. Smaller "puppy drum" are excellent eating, while the big ones (some over 80 pounds!) are fun to catch and release. They love crabs and shrimp, so we often use these baits when targeting them.
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth, sheepshead are a unique catch. They're notorious bait stealers, requiring a delicate touch to hook. We find them around pilings, rocks, and other structure. Landing a big sheepshead is a badge of honor among local anglers, and they're fantastic on the dinner table.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Folks who fish with us tend to make it an annual tradition, and it's easy to see why. The variety of species and fishing styles keeps things exciting – one day you might be sight casting to tailing reds, the next you're battling a monster cobia. Our captains are more than just guides; they're local experts who love sharing their knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, you'll learn something new and have a blast doing it. And let's not forget the scenery – the pristine waters and stunning coastline of the Outer Banks make for a perfect backdrop to your fishing adventure.
Time to Book Your Spot
If you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best inshore fishing the East Coast has to offer, don't wait to book this trip. Our half-day morning outings are perfect for fitting a serious fishing session into your vacation schedule, and they often produce enough action to keep you buzzing for days. Whether you're dreaming of that bull red photo op, hoping to fill the cooler with tasty specks, or just want to enjoy a morning on the water with family and friends, we've got you covered. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so grab your spot now and get ready for a fishing trip you'll be talking about for years to come. See you on the water!
Customer Review
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are hefty fighters, typically ranging from 5 to 30 pounds, though some monsters can hit 90. You'll find them lurking around oyster beds, muddy flats, and inlets. These bruisers love crushing shellfish with their powerful jaws. Spring's your best bet, as they school up for spawning. Anglers dig 'em for the challenge and table fare, but stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds for better eating. When targeting Black Drum, go low and slow with your bait. A local trick? Use fresh, soft crab on a circle hook - it's like candy to them. Just remember, they're notorious bait stealers, so set that hook quick when you feel weight. Whether you're after a bull or a slot-sized fish, Black Drum put up a stubborn fight that'll test your gear and skills.
Cobia
Cobia are the freight trains of our coastal waters. These bruisers can hit 6 feet and 100 pounds, though most run 20 to 40. You'll spot them cruising near the surface, often mistaken for sharks. They love structure, so check around buoys, wrecks, and even manta rays. Late spring through summer is prime time as they migrate up the coast. Anglers go nuts for cobia - they fight like crazy and taste amazing. When targeting them, sight-fishing is the way to go. Bring heavy tackle and big bucktail jigs. Here's a local trick: if you see one, cast well ahead and let the jig sink. These curious fish will often investigate if you don't spook 'em. Once hooked, be ready for a long, grueling fight. Landing a big cobia is always a highlight of the season.
Redfish
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the rock stars of our inshore waters. These copper-colored bruisers typically run 20 to 30 inches, but the big bulls can push 50 pounds. You'll find them tailing in skinny water, often so shallow their backs are exposed. Look for them around oyster beds, grass flats, and dock pilings. Fall's prime time when they school up, but you can catch 'em year-round. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and excellent table fare. When targeting reds, try sight-fishing with a gold spoon or soft plastic on the flats. Here's a local tip: on sunny days, look for their copper sides flashing in shallow water. They spook easy, so a quiet approach is key. Once hooked, these guys pull like a freight train, so hang on tight!
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, or Speckled Trout as we call 'em, are a favorite around here. They typically run 14 to 24 inches, with some pushing 5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. These fish love structure, so look for them around oyster beds and creek mouths. Fall and spring are prime seasons when water temps are just right. Anglers prize them for their light, flaky meat and the sporty fight they put up on light tackle. If you're after specs, try working a soft plastic jig or topwater plug slowly over grass beds. Here's a local secret: on calm mornings, look for them "slicking" - leaving oily patches on the surface as they feed. That's your cue to cast. Remember, they've got paper-thin mouths, so go easy on the hook set.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are some of the quirkiest fish you'll target around here. These striped convicts usually run 1-8 pounds, but can surprise you with a 20-pounder. You'll find them hugging structure - docks, bridges, and oyster beds are prime spots. They're notorious bait stealers with those human-like teeth, so bring your A-game. Spring's the hot time as they gather to spawn. Anglers love 'em for the challenge and tasty white meat. Here's a local tip: use a small, sharp hook with fiddler crab or oyster as bait. When you feel that telltale nibble, give it a second before setting the hook. These guys are masters at stripping bait, so patience is key. The fight's not huge, but landing a big sheepshead is always satisfying.
About the Parker
%2F%2Fusers%2F00be399a-35fa-4239-8aa4-1919acbfff4f%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fobxboat.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: 2023 Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
