Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to hit the waters off Nags Head for some serious fishing action? Our 6 to 8-hour trips are where it's at if you want to really dig into what the Outer Banks has to offer. We're talking about the kind of day where you might start inshore, work your way nearshore, and even push out to some offshore hotspots if the bite is on. It's a full-day affair that'll have you jigging, bottom fishing, and maybe even sight casting if we spot some big ones cruising.
First things first, we'll load up the boat with all the gear you need - rods, reels, bait, the works. No need to sweat about licenses either; we've got you covered. As we push off from Nags Head, keep your eyes peeled. You might spot some dolphins or see pelicans diving for their breakfast. Once we hit our first spot, it's game on. We'll be targeting a mix of fish, from the hard-fighting cobia to the tasty flounder. And let me tell you, when a big sea bass hits, you'll know it. We'll hop around to different spots throughout the day, trying different techniques to maximize our chances. It's all about reading the water, following the fish, and having a blast while we're at it.
On these longer trips, we get to mix it up. We might start with some bottom fishing, dropping baits down for sea bass and triggerfish. If the cobia are running, we'll break out the sight casting gear and cruise the surface looking for those brown bombers. For flounder, we'll work some jigs along the bottom, feeling for that distinctive thump. And don't worry if you're new to this - I'll walk you through each technique. We use top-notch gear that's easy to handle, even for beginners. From light tackle for triggerfish to heavier setups for cobia, we've got it all dialed in. Just remember to bring some sunscreen and a hat - the Carolina sun can be fierce out on the water!
"We had such a memorable day out on the water with Captain Chris! He was so helpful, especially with my wife, who is really green when it comes to fishing. He had us on some fish as soon as the boat stopped! Got a few fish in the well quick and really boosted your confidence and started the good vibes! Overall we got a good variety of fish from tiggers, to sea bass, some Bonita, a couple ribbon, and even had a shark in the boat momentarily. We could not be more pleased with all of the help and the great experience we received for Captain Chris with " In Debt Charters"" - Daniel
Let's talk about what's biting out there. Grey Triggerfish are one of our fan favorites. These little powerhouses put up a fight that'll surprise you. They hang around structures and reefs, so when we're over a good spot, it's not uncommon to pull up a few in quick succession. They're great eating too, with firm, white meat that's perfect for fish tacos.
Next up, we've got the Atlantic Goldeneye Tilefish. These deep-water beauties are a real treat to catch. They live in waters over 300 feet deep, so when we're targeting them, you know we're in for some serious fishing. They fight hard all the way up, and their golden scales make for some great photos. The meat is delicate and sweet - a true delicacy.
Cobia are the bruisers of the bunch. These fish can grow over 100 pounds, and when they're around, they're the stars of the show. We often spot them near the surface, sometimes following rays or sharks. Sight casting to a big cobia is about as exciting as it gets in these waters. They're seasonal visitors, usually showing up in late spring and sticking around through summer.
Southern Flounder are the masters of camouflage. These flatfish blend in perfectly with the sandy bottom, but we know just where to find them. They're ambush predators, so we'll work jigs or live bait along the bottom to tempt them. The bite can be subtle, but once you set the hook, you're in for a good fight. And there's nothing quite like fresh flounder for dinner.
Last but not least, we've got Black Sea Bass. These fish are almost always willing to bite, which makes them great for anglers of all skill levels. They hang around structure, so we'll often find them near wrecks or reefs. The bigger ones, which we call "knuckleheads," can put up a serious fight. They're also excellent table fare, with firm white meat that's great grilled or fried.
Folks, the beauty of these longer trips is the variety. One minute you're reeling up a colorful triggerfish, the next you're battling a hard-charging cobia. It's not just about filling the cooler (though we often do); it's about the experience. You'll learn new techniques, discover different species, and really get a feel for what fishing in the Outer Banks is all about. Plus, with 6 to 8 hours on the water, we've got time to really dial in on what's biting and adjust our strategy as the day goes on. It's the kind of trip where you come back with stories, not just fish.
Alright, anglers, if you're itching to get out on the water and put some bend in those rods, it's time to lock in your date. These longer trips are customer favorites and tend to fill up fast, especially during peak season. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to tangle with some big game or a family wanting to make some lasting memories, we've got you covered. Remember, all the gear is provided, and we'll make sure you're comfortable with everything before we start fishing. So what do you say? Ready to experience some of the best fishing Nags Head has to offer? Give us a call or book online, and let's get you out on the water. Trust me, once you feel that first big hit, you'll be hooked!
August 28, 2024
Atlantic Goldeneye Tilefish are a real treat to catch out here. These beauties run about 2-3 feet long and love hanging out in deep water, usually 250-800 feet down. You'll find 'em near sandy bottoms and coral reefs. Summer's your best bet for hooking into one. They're not the biggest fighters, but man, are they pretty with those golden spots. Plus, the meat is delicious - firm and sweet. Locals prize 'em for the dinner table. Here's a trick: use a heavy bottom rig with fresh squid or eel. Drop it all the way down and wait for that telltale tug. Don't set the hook too fast - give 'em time to really take the bait. Once you've got one on, it's a fun challenge reeling 'em up from the depths.
Black Sea Bass are hard-fighting little bruisers that are a blast to catch. These guys usually run 1-3 pounds, with some topping 5. You'll find 'em around structure like wrecks and reefs in 60-120 feet of water. Late spring through summer's prime time when they move inshore. Sea bass are known for their aggressive bite and tasty white meat. They're not huge, but they'll put a nice bend in your rod. Here's a local trick: use a two-hook bottom rig with squid or cut bait. Drop it right on the structure and get ready for some fast action. When you feel that tap-tap-tap, reel quick and set the hook. These fish school up, so when you find 'em, you can often catch a bunch. Just watch out for their sharp gill plates when you're unhooking 'em.
Cobia are beasts - they'll give you the fight of your life. These guys can hit 6 feet and 100 pounds, though most we see are in the 30-50 pound range. They're loners, cruising near the surface around structure like buoys and wrecks. Spring and early summer's prime time as they migrate up the coast. Cobia are prized for their strength and tasty white meat. They'll test your gear and your arms, that's for sure. Here's a local secret: look for rays near the surface. Cobia often follow them, hoping to snatch up scraps. Toss a live eel or big jig nearby and hang on tight. These fish can make blistering runs, so be ready for some serious action when one hits.
Grey Triggerfish are tough little fighters that'll test your skills. These guys usually run 15-20 inches and hang out near reefs and wrecks, 60-300 feet down. Look for them from spring through fall when the water's warmer. Triggers are known for their sharp teeth and hard mouths, so they can be tricky to hook. But man, once you get 'em on, they put up a scrappy fight for their size. The meat is really good too - white and flaky. Here's a tip: use a small, strong hook with a piece of squid or cut bait. Let it sink to the bottom, then reel up a few turns. Triggers often hit on the drop, so stay alert. And watch those teeth when you're unhooking 'em!
Southern Flounder are sneaky ambush predators that'll keep you on your toes. These flatfish typically run 15-20 inches and love to hide in sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. Fall's the best time to target them as they move to deeper water to spawn. Flounder fishing's all about patience and precision. They're not big fighters, but they're challenging to hook and delicious to eat. That's why so many folks love going after 'em. Here's a tip: use a Carolina rig with a live mud minnow or finger mullet. Drag it slowly along the bottom, feeling for that distinctive "thump" when a flounder grabs it. Give 'em a second to turn the bait before setting the hook. It takes some practice, but landing a big doormat is super satisfying.
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“Dan and Maggie” We had such a memorable day out on the water with Captain Chris! He was so helpful, especially with my wife, who is really green when it comes to fishing. He had us on some fish as soon as the boat stopped! Got a few fish in the well quick and really boosted your confidence and started the good vibes! Overall we got a good variety of fish from tiggers, to sea bass, some Bonita, a couple ribbon, and even had a shark in the boat momentarily. We could not be more pleased with all of the help and the great experience we received for Captain Chris with “ In Debt Charters”