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Ready to feel that tug on your line? Our Outer Banks nearshore fishing trip is where the real action happens. We're talking about getting up close with some of the most exciting fish these waters have to offer. Black sea bass, bluefish, mackerel – they're all out there waiting for you. And trust me, when you hook into one of these fighters, you'll know why anglers can't get enough of the Outer Banks. So grab your hat and sunscreen, because we're about to hit some prime fishing spots just off the coast.
Picture this: you're cruising out on a sweet Riptide charter, the salty breeze in your face, and the Outer Banks coastline fading behind you. We're not going way out to sea, but just far enough to where the big boys hang out. You'll be dropping lines for redfish, Spanish mackerel, triggerfish, bluefish, cobia, and even the odd ribbonfish. It's a real mixed bag out here, which means every cast could bring up something different. We've got room for you and four buddies, so round up your crew and get ready for some serious rod-bending action.
Now, let's talk tactics. Out here, we play it by ear and use whatever works best on the day. Sometimes we'll be trolling, dragging lines behind the boat to tempt those speedy mackerel. Other times, we'll drop jigs down deep, working them up and down to trigger strikes from bottom-dwellers like black sea bass. And when the bite is on, we might just anchor up and do some good old-fashioned bottom fishing. Don't sweat it if you're new to this – our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand and they'll show you the ropes. We've got all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Just bring your game face and maybe a cooler for your catch.
You know what they say – the fish are always biting on the Outer Banks. But don't just take my word for it. Our trips consistently reel in some happy anglers. Here's what a few of them had to say:
"Caught my first cobia with these guys. What a rush! The captain knew exactly where to go." - Mike S.
"Best day fishing I've had in years. Non-stop action with bluefish and Spanish mackerel. Can't wait to come back!" - Sarah T.
"Took my kids out and they're hooked for life now. Patient crew and plenty of fish. We'll be back next summer for sure." - Dave R.
Let's break down some of the all-stars you might tangle with out there:
Bluefish: These guys are the bulldogs of the sea. They hit hard and fight even harder. Bluefish show up in big schools, so when you find them, it's game on. They've got a mouthful of teeth, so watch your fingers when you're unhooking them. Best time to catch 'em? Spring and fall, when they're chasing bait near the shore. Anglers love 'em because they're always ready for a scrap.
Black Sea Bass: Don't let their size fool you – these bottom-dwellers put up a great fight. They hang around structure like wrecks and reefs, so we'll be dropping lines right into their living rooms. They're here year-round, but the bigger ones show up in cooler months. Folks can't get enough of their firm, white meat – it's perfect for the grill.
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes, sheepshead are a sight to behold. They're tricky to catch, with a knack for stealing bait, but that's part of the fun. These guys love structure too, so we'll target them around pilings and jetties. They're around most of the year, but really fire up in the warmer months. Anglers prize them for their sweet, almost shellfish-like flavor.
Grey Triggerfish: These oddball-looking fish are a blast to catch. They've got powerful jaws designed for crushing shellfish, so they put up a surprisingly good fight for their size. We find them over reefs and wrecks, usually in the warmer months. They're a favorite among anglers who know – the meat is delicious and often compared to lobster.
Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a staple of Outer Banks fishing. They can grow to monster sizes, but even the smaller ones will give you a run for your money. We catch them year-round, but fall is prime time when they school up. Anglers love targeting them for their powerful runs and the 'drumming' sound they make.
Look, if you're itching for some rod-bending action without heading way offshore, this is your ticket. We're talking about a day packed with variety – different species, different techniques, and non-stop excitement. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, our Outer Banks nearshore trip has something for everyone. The fish are out there, the boat's ready, and we've got the local know-how to put you on the bite. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the Riptide charter and let's make some fishing memories. Trust me, once you feel that first hit, you'll be hooked on Outer Banks fishing for life. Don't miss out – book your trip now and get ready for some serious fish stories of your own!
Black sea bass are a favorite target here in the Outer Banks. These fish usually run 1-4 pounds, but you might land an 8-pounder if you're lucky. Look for them around structure - sunken wrecks, rocky bottoms, and artificial reefs are prime spots. They hang out in 60-120 feet of water typically. Late spring through summer is the best time to chase these guys. Sea bass put up a good scrap for their size and are excellent eating - mild, flaky white meat. Folks enjoy catching them because you can often limit out pretty quickly when you find a school. I like to use a two-hook bottom rig with squid or cut bait. Here's a pro tip: when you feel that telltale tap-tap-tap, wait a second before setting the hook. Let 'em get it good and you'll hook up more often.

Bluefish are aggressive predators that'll give you a real fight. These toothy customers typically run 3-10 pounds but can get up to 20. You'll find them cruising the nearshore waters from spring through fall, often in big schools. They love to chase bait fish, so look for diving birds to spot the action. Bluefish hit hard and fast - be ready for some exciting topwater strikes. We usually troll or cast lures that mimic their prey. If you're bait fishing, use wire leaders since those razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono. Bluefish are fun to catch and make good eating when prepared right. My tip: bleed them immediately and get them on ice for the best flavor. These aggressive battlers are a blast, especially when the schools are thick.

Grey triggerfish are quirky little battlers you'll find on the nearshore reefs. Most run 2-5 pounds, but they can get up to 13. These guys love structure, so we target them around hard bottoms, ledges, and artificial reefs in 60-180 feet of water. Summer and fall are your best bets. Triggerfish are fun to catch - they put up a surprisingly good fight for their size and have a unique look with that tiny mouth and tough, leathery skin. They're also excellent eating, with sweet, white meat. I like to use small hooks with squid chunks. Here's a tip: when you feel a bite, start reeling immediately. These guys are notorious for nibbling the bait off the hook, so you've got to be quick. Once hooked, get 'em coming up fast or they'll dive for cover.

Redfish, or red drum, are one of our most popular inshore targets. They typically run 5-15 pounds, but you might hook into a 40-pounder in the surf. Look for them in shallow water - 1 to 4 feet deep - around oyster beds, grass flats, and creek mouths. Fall is prime time when big schools move through. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and stamina - they'll test your drag for sure. Anglers love 'em for the fight and their excellent eating quality. I like to sight-cast with soft plastics or topwater lures in the shallows. Here's a local trick: on calm days, look for their tails sticking up out of the water as they root for crabs in the mud. Sneak up quietly and make an accurate cast - it's a rush when they explode on your lure.

Sheepshead are one of the craftiest fish you'll target around here. These striped "convict fish" usually run 2-8 pounds but can get up to 20. You'll find them hugging structure - pilings, jetties, reefs - anywhere there are barnacles and crustaceans to munch on. Spring through fall is prime time. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers with their human-like teeth, so you've got to be quick on the hook set. They put up a stubborn fight and taste great, which is why anglers love going after them. My go-to rig is a small, strong hook with fiddler crab or oyster for bait. Here's the local secret: when you feel that subtle nibble, count to three and then set the hook hard. It takes practice, but you'll start landing more of these clever fish.

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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 300