Book a 2-hour inshore fishing trip in Wanchese. Perfect for families, all gear included. Catch redfish and sea trout!

Inshore Quickie

Family-Friendly 2-Hour Fishing Trip in Wanchese

Book a 6-hour inshore trip in Wanchese targeting Sheepshead, Sea Trout, and Redfish. Perfect for all skill levels!

Inshore Fun

Top-Rated 6-Hour Inshore Fishing in Wanchese

Join Riptide for a 7-hour offshore cobia sight casting trip. Expert guides, top gear, and trophy fish await. Book now!

Cobia Quest

Riptide Charters' Premium 7-Hour Cobia Trip

Book a 4-hour inshore fishing adventure in the Outer Banks. Target redfish, trout, and more with Riptide Charters.

Inshore Catch

Riptide's Outer Banks 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip

Experience unforgettable things to do in Wanchese, NC! Dive into outdoor activities, fresh seafood, and scenic views that will captivate you.

Things To Do

Things To Do In Wanchese NC 

Wanchese fishing offers adventure and beauty! Discover why this North Carolina destination is perfect for your next fishing getaway.

Fishing In NC 

Why Wanchese is One of the Best Fishing Destinations in NC

Experience world-class offshore fishing with Riptide Charters. Target diverse species on our 6-hour nearshore trip. Book now!

Nearshore Reel

Expert-Guided 6-Hour Nearshore Fishing Adventure

Book a full-day inshore trip targeting 5 prized species. Expert guides, top gear, and varied techniques await.

Reel Time

Riptide's 8-Hour Inshore Fishing Adventure

Book a world-class nearshore fishing trip in the Outer Banks. Target sea bass, bluefish, and more with expert guides.

Nearshore Thrills

Riptide's Premier 4-Hour Outer Banks Fishing Trip

Inshore fishing<ul><li>Runs 4-hour Outer Banks inshore trips and 6-hour Wanchese inshore charters across the sound and inlet flats.</li><li>Targets speckled trout, red drum, flounder and sheepshead on the sound and marsh flats.</li></ul>Nearshore and offshore trips<ul><li>Offers full-day nearshore charters covering open ocean and sound waters for cobia, Spanish mackerel and amberjack.</li><li>Runs full-day offshore charters for black drum, black sea bass and mackerel, plus a dedicated cobia sight casting trip.</li></ul>Family and beginner trips<ul><li>Runs a 2-hour late afternoon private inshore trip designed for smaller children and young anglers new to fishing.</li></ul>

Learn more about Randy Thornton a Book The Top-rated Wanchese Fishing Charters! in Riptide charters

Randy Thornton - Riptide charters

We are heading to the Dixie Deer Classic! 🚤🎣
We’ll be set up in Raleigh from February 27 – March 1, so come find us at the show!
Swing by our booth to talk fishing and book a trip on the spot. Anyone who books with us at the show gets a FREE Riptide Charters T-shirt 👕🔥
📍 Dixie Deer Classic – Raleigh
📅 Feb 27 – March 1
See y’all there!

Three fish caught while fishing in North Carolina

See You at the Dixie Deer Classic

Thank You for an Incredible Season

After some slow days, the action picked up this afternoon at Wanchese Marina, OBX. Managed to land some redfish, making for a satisfying outing despite the recent challenges. Anglers are starting to see signs of the bite picking up—definitely worth heading out!

Redfish finally showing at Wanchese Marina

Still chipping away thanks everyone who fished with me this week.


Two big fishing catches in North Carolina

Still chipping away—thanks to everyone who fished with me this week!

4 bluefish caught on a fishing trip in Wanchese

Thanks for the afternoon action, guys!

Had jim and his family out for the 2nd year in a row and the drum fishing did not disappoint. Thanks agian guys see y’all next year.

Back for year two with Jim’s family—another solid drum fishing trip. Thanks again, see you next year!

The weather is finally shifting in our favor, and prime Sheepshead season is just around the corner. It won’t be long before these fish are biting, making it the perfect time to plan your next fishing trip. Spring fishing offers some of the best action of the year, so don’t miss your chance to reel in a great catch. Book your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water!

Two spotted weakfish and sheepshead fish caught fishing in Wanchese

Wanchese, NC Fishing Report

For an unforgettable fishing adventure, RipTide Charters is your go-to choice for Wanchese fishing charters. Whether you're looking for inshore fishing Wanchese NC, nearshore fishing Outer Banks, or an exciting deep sea fishing Wanchese experience, Captain Randy has the expertise to guide you. With over 12 years of professional fishing experience, he knows the best spots to ensure a successful trip. As one of the top Outer Banks fishing guides, he specializes in light tackle fishing Wanchese, helping anglers of all skill levels enjoy a productive day on the water. Wanchese, NC, is a true fisherman’s paradise, offering access to diverse habitats, including flats, marshes, and reefs. Whether you're targeting red drum, flounder, speckled trout, cobia, sheepshead, king mackerel, or striped bass, this area provides prime opportunities for Outer Banks inshore fishing trips. With the Pamlico Sound and Atlantic Ocean nearby, you’ll spend more time fishing and less time traveling, making this one of the best fishing charters Wanchese NC. If you’re looking for a Wanchese nearshore trolling charters, RipTide Charters offers specialized trips tailored to your preferences. Captain Randy operates a Mako 25’ center console, powered by a 300 HP Evinrude engine, designed for OBX fishing charters. This vessel accommodates up to five guests and features two depth finders, a flybridge, a live well, and ice boxes, ensuring comfort and efficiency. Families are welcome, and Wanchese family fishing charters are perfect for introducing kids to the sport. If you're searching for a Wanchese kids-friendly fishing trips, this charter is an excellent choice. Each trip includes rods, reels, bait, tackle, drinks, and fishing licenses, so you can focus on landing fish. The boat is sanitized before every trip for safety. Whether you choose a Wanchese NC half-day fishing trips or a full-day outing, Captain Randy ensures an exciting and rewarding experience. He stays updated on the best time to fish in Wanchese NC, giving you the highest chance of success. For those seeking affordable fishing charters Wanchese, RipTide Charters delivers quality service at great value. If you want a personalized experience, book an OBX private fishing charters today and enjoy Outer Banks sportfishing at its finest.

EPSG:4269

Greater amberjack caught during fishing trip in Wanchese NC

Speckled trout caught while fishing in Wanchese NC waters

Two anglers holding a large Greater Amberjack catch on fishing boat in Wanchese NC waters

Greater amberjack catch on fishing boat in Wanchese NC waters

Redfish caught while fishing in Wanchese NC waters

After some slow days, the action picked up this afternoon at Wanchese Marina, OBX. Managed to land some redfish, making for a satisfying outing despit

Still chipping away thanks everyone who fished with me this week.

Don't miss your chance to experience some of the best fishing in Wanchese, NC with RipTide Charters—whether you're after red drum, flounder, or trophy offshore species, we've got the perfect trip for you. Book your adventure today and create lasting memories on the water with Captain Randy Thornton!

RipTide Charters is your go-to provider for top-rated Wanchese fishing charters, delivering exceptional experiences for anglers of all skill levels. As one of the leading fishing charters in Wanchese, NC, we specialize in inshore fishing, nearshore trips along the Outer Banks, and deep sea fishing adventures designed for those pursuing trophy catches. Our knowledgeable Outer Banks fishing guides have an intimate understanding of local waters, giving you the best chance to catch Red Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, and more. From Wanchese NC half-day fishing trips to full-day excursions, our affordable charters cater to individuals, families, and private groups seeking a memorable OBX sportfishing adventure. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly Wanchese fishing charters, private Outer Banks fishing trips, or expert guidance on the best time to fish in Wanchese, NC, RipTide Charters has you covered. Our crew employs proven techniques, including light tackle fishing, jigging, trolling, and live baiting, to maximize your time on the water. With a focus on fun, safety, and productivity, we make every outing unforgettable—perfect for kids and adults alike. Book your Wanchese fishing charter today and discover why RipTide Charters is the top choice for Outer Banks sportfishing enthusiasts.

Captain Randy Thornton grew up on the Outer Banks, where his passion for fishing started at an early age. Spending his childhood exploring the beaches, sounds, and backwaters with his dad, he developed a deep appreciation for the waters surrounding Wanchese, NC. That passion led him to earn his Captain's license and pursue a career in fishing, running offshore charters for over a decade. While he enjoyed the challenge of deep-sea fishing, his love for Nearshore and Inshore fishing never faded. Whether targeting red drum in the shallows or trolling for king mackerel just offshore, Captain Randy has built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and experienced Outer Banks fishing guides. Now, as the owner of RipTide Charters, Captain Randy focuses on providing unforgettable fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels. He takes pride in offering Wanchese family fishing charters, ensuring kids and beginners feel comfortable while seasoned anglers can chase trophy fish. His charters include everything from affordable half-day fishing trips in Wanchese, NC, to private deep-sea fishing adventures for tuna and mahi-mahi. Whether you're looking for light tackle action, nearshore trolling, or Outer Banks sportfishing, Captain Randy is dedicated to making every trip a success. His goal is simple—to create lasting memories for his clients, just like the ones he made growing up on these waters. Captain Randy Thornton utilizes a variety of fishing techniques to ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for every angler. His expertise includes light tackle fishing for precision and finesse, as well as heavy tackle for targeting larger offshore species. He is skilled in bottom fishing, perfect for catching grouper, snapper, and other deep-dwelling fish, while trolling is a go-to method for landing king mackerel, mahi-mahi, and tuna in the Outer Banks. Captain Randy also incorporates spinning and jigging, offering an exciting way to entice aggressive fish like amberjack and cobia. For topwater action, he employs popping to create explosive strikes from predatory fish, while drift fishing allows for a natural presentation when targeting red drum and flounder. No matter the conditions, Captain Randy adapts his approach to maximize success on every RipTide Charters trip. Boat Details:﻿Captain Randy Thornton’s 25-foot Mako center console is built for performance, comfort, and versatility on the water. Powered by a 300HP Suzuki engine, this boat reaches a cruising speed of 30 knots, ensuring quick access to prime fishing spots in the Outer Banks. Designed for both inshore and nearshore fishing, the vessel provides a stable and spacious deck, accommodating up to five guests for an action-packed day on the water. The center console layout allows for 360-degree fishability, making it perfect for techniques like trolling, jigging, popping, and bottom fishing. Whether targeting red drum in the shallows or chasing king mackerel offshore, this well-equipped boat delivers a smooth and efficient ride for every RipTide Charters adventure.

Meet Captain Randy Thornton Of RipTide Charters

Contact Captain Randy Thornton for Inquiries:

Email: riptidechartersnc@yahoo.com

Catch Your Dream Fish With Us!

Common Questions: What are the prices for fishing charters with RipTide Charters in Wanchese, NC?RipTide Charters offers a variety of fishing trips at competitive rates. Prices depend on the trip type and duration, our charter trip ranges from $325 up to $900 What types of fishing trips does RipTide Charters offer?We provide Outer Banks inshore fishing for Red Drum and Speckled Trout, nearshore trolling for King Mackerel in the Outer Banks, and deep sea fishing charters for Tuna and Mahi-Mahi in OBX. We also offer Wanchese, NC private fishing charters for small groups and family-friendly fishing trips. What’s included in the price of a fishing charter?Our pricing covers everything you need for a great day on the water, including rods, reels, bait, tackle, and fishing licenses. You just need to bring snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and a cooler for your catch. What’s the best time of year to fish in Wanchese, North Carolina?The best time of year to fish in Wanchese, North Carolina, depends on what you’re targeting. Spring and summer are excellent for Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and King Mackerel, while fall is great for Tuna and Mahi-Mahi offshore. Winter fishing can be productive for Stripers and other inshore species. How many people can join a charter with RipTide Charters?Our boats accommodate 5 people group size. We specialize in Wanchese, NC private fishing charters for small groups, ensuring a personalized experience. What’s the difference between inshore, nearshore, and deep sea fishing charters?Outer Banks inshore fishing for Red Drum and Speckled Trout takes place in calmer waters close to shore, ideal for families and beginners. Nearshore trolling for King Mackerel in the Outer Banks targets fish a few miles offshore, offering more action. Deep sea fishing charters for Tuna and Mahi-Mahi in OBX head 20+ miles offshore for big-game species, requiring more time and experience. What should I expect on a fishing charter in Wanchese, NC?Expect an exciting and action-packed trip guided by an experienced captain. Depending on the trip type, you’ll be casting, trolling, jigging, or bottom fishing while learning expert techniques. Are RipTide Charters' fishing trips family-friendly?Yes! We offer the best fishing charters for families in Wanchese, NC, ensuring a safe and fun experience for kids and adults. Our inshore and nearshore trips are perfect for young anglers. Can I keep the fish I catch?Yes, as long as they meet size and bag limits. How do I book a fishing charter with RipTide Charters?Booking is easy! Contact us online or by phone to reserve your affordable half-day fishing trips in Wanchese, NC, or any other charter option that suits your fishing goals.

Air Fee

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Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

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State Taxes

Trimix Fee

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Venture beyond the shoreline and explore the diverse fishing opportunities along the Outer Banks. Nearshore waters offer a changing mix of targets, from powerful Cobia and hard-fighting Redfish to fast-moving Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish. You may also encounter Triggerfish and Ribbonfish as you work different areas along the coast. Trolling, jigging, and bottom fishing give you several ways to approach the bite, with techniques adjusted to the conditions and species you're targeting. Whether you enjoy the strategy of choosing the right presentation or the excitement of responding to a strong run, this trip offers plenty of variety for anglers eager to explore beyond the sound. Take in the coastal scenery, test different techniques, and see which species makes your day on the water memorable.

Black Sea Bass

Bluefish

Grey Triggerfish

Redfish

Sheepshead

25' Mako

4 hrs 

Where the Coast Meets the Fight: Outer Banks Nearshore Action

Settle into a full day of inshore fishing across the protected waters around Wanchese Inlet, where varied habitats offer opportunities to pursue several local species. Target Trout, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Sea Mullet while exploring areas near marsh edges and underwater structure. Each spot presents a different approach, whether you're casting along the shallows or dropping bait where fish gather. The sheltered setting makes this trip appealing to a wide range of anglers, from families looking to enjoy time together to experienced fishermen eager to explore productive inshore grounds. With six hours to fish, there's room to try different locations and adapt your tactics as conditions change. Enjoy the coastal scenery, focus on the next bite, and experience the fishing character that makes Wanchese a memorable Outer Banks destination.

Sea Trout

6 hrs 

Inside the Inlet: Six Hours of Outer Banks Fishing

Make the most of your time on the water with a nearshore adventure that spans the Outer Banks’ sound and ocean waters. Explore different fishing grounds while targeting a diverse mix of species, including Cobia, Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Redfish, Trout, Sheepshead, and other bottom fish. With several habitats to work, you can change tactics throughout the trip, using casting, drifting, jigging, or live bait depending on the conditions and your target. Pursue fast-moving predators when they're active, then switch to bottom fishing for a different challenge. The variety keeps the day engaging for anglers with different experience levels and fishing preferences. Whether you're hoping to connect with a powerful Cobia or enjoy the challenge of finding multiple species, this trip offers a versatile way to explore the Outer Banks fishery.

Cobia

Greater Amberjack

King Mackerel

From Sound to Sea: A Day of Changing Tactics and Targets

Spotting a Cobia is only the beginning. This specialized offshore trip puts your observation and casting skills to the test as you scan the water for opportunities to target one of the ocean’s most powerful game fish. Known to exceed 100 pounds, Cobia can deliver a serious challenge when hooked, making every sighting a moment to watch closely and prepare for the cast. With the day dedicated to sight fishing, you’ll focus on identifying fish and making accurate presentations rather than simply waiting for a bite. Anglers of all experience levels can take part, including those new to this specialized technique. Rods, reels, tackle, bait, and quality fishing gear are provided. Bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing for a focused day pursuing a potential trophy Cobia.

7 hrs 

Eyes on the Water: The Hunt for a Trophy Cobia

Make the most of a full day on the water with a fishing trip built around variety, changing conditions, and multiple ways to find the bite. Explore coastal and offshore grounds while targeting Black Drum, Black Sea Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Cobia, and Sea Trout. Depending on where the fish are holding and how conditions develop, you can switch between trolling, sight casting, live bait fishing, and jigging. Each technique brings a different challenge, giving beginners and experienced anglers opportunities to learn, adapt, and pursue their preferred species. Quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included, so you can concentrate on the fishing. Bring your own food, drinks, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses to stay comfortable throughout the day. With multiple targets and techniques in play, every stop brings a new possibility.

Black Drum

8 hrs 

Eight Hours, Endless Possibilities: From Sea Bass to Cobia

Discover the variety of Outer Banks fishing as you explore the sound, inlets, shallow flats, and nearshore reefs with an experienced guide. Each habitat offers a different opportunity to target Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Bluefish, and Sheepshead. Switch between jigging, drifting, and live bait fishing to match the conditions and the water you're working. Whether you're learning to read the bite or bringing years of experience to the boat, this trip offers a chance to refine your approach while enjoying the coastal scenery. Rods, reels, tackle, and bait are included, so you can focus on the fishing. Bring polarized sunglasses, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable as you explore the diverse inshore grounds of the Outer Banks.

Beyond the Sound: Find Your Next Outer Banks Catch

Introduce young anglers to the fun of fishing with a relaxed outing on the calm sound waters near Wanchese. This family-friendly experience is designed with smaller children in mind, offering a comfortable way to discover fishing without committing to a full day on the water. Keep an eye out for Speckled Trout, Red Drum, Flounder, and other bottom-dwelling fish as you try casting, drifting, or jigging, depending on the conditions. All fishing equipment is provided, making it easy for families to focus on learning, spending time together, and enjoying the coastal scenery. Whether it’s a child’s first time holding a rod or a chance to share a favorite pastime across generations, this outing is all about making the most of time together on the water.

Meet your Captain Randy Thornton

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