For-Hire Captain's License | Andrew Jackson, North Carolina

Andrew Jackson's For-Hire Captain's License

Andrew Jackson holds a For-Hire Captain's License issued by the State of North Carolina. License number 2068810 was issued on November 16, 2022, and is valid through June 30, 2028. This license qualifies him to operate commercial fishing charters and guide anglers on trips throughout North Carolina's waters.

When you book with Atlantic Blue Charters, you're fishing with a guide who holds the state credential needed to run charter operations. The license is specific to commercial for-hire fishing and shows the state has registered Andrew to captain fishing trips for paying customers.

Offshore and Inshore Fishing Trips

Andrew runs a range of fishing trips out of Snead's Ferry, targeting different species and techniques depending on what's in season and what you want to catch. On 6-hour offshore trips, you'll head into deeper waters to pursue Spanish bonita, sailfish, mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, yellowfin tuna, and more. These trips take advantage of the speed of the 28-foot Sportsman, which reaches up to 60 knots and gets you to prime fishing grounds quickly.

Inshore trips focus on red drum, black drum, sheepshead, trout, and flounder when in season. The 4-hour and 6-hour inshore options fish the creeks and sounds around Topsail Island. Andrew and his first mate will use live bait or artificial lures, or a mix of both, depending on conditions and your preference. Flounder gigging trips run during the short North Carolina flounder season in early September and target large doormat flounder with a gig.

You'll also find a 4-hour nearshore option and evening sunset cruises through the Intracoastal Waterway and surrounding sounds. Each trip comes with a fishing license, live bait, drinks, and high-quality rods and reels. The Sportsman accommodates up to 5 guests, so you can bring friends or family.

Fishing Techniques and What to Expect

Atlantic Blue Charters uses a variety of proven methods to match the species you're after. Light tackle and heavy tackle fishing both appear on trips, along with trolling, jigging, popping, drift fishing, spinning, fly fishing, and bottom fishing. Andrew adjusts his approach based on what's biting and your skill level, whether you're a seasoned angler or casting a line for the first time.

Before you head out, make sure you have a valid North Carolina fishing license for yourself—that's a personal requirement separate from the charter's for-hire license. Andrew's charter includes a license as part of the package, but confirm with him when you book. Wear layers or bring a jacket, even in warmer months, since it's cooler on the water and conditions change. Bring sunscreen and polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes when spotting fish. If you take medication or have motion sensitivity, take steps before boarding. Soft-soled shoes or sandals with a strap work best on deck.

Your Day on the Water

Charter trips depart from Snead's Ferry, a short drive from Surf City. You'll fish aboard the 28-foot Sportsman, a center console built in 2020 with dual 300HP Yamaha engines. The boat is rigged with quality tackle and equipped for a full day on the water. Andrew and his crew will brief you on technique, help set the hook, and handle netting and release if you prefer. The trip includes refreshments and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere designed to make the day memorable.

Booking a trip means working with a guide who operates under state licensing and knows North Carolina's offshore and inshore fisheries well. You get a professional crew, a properly maintained boat, and an itinerary built around where the fish are biting and what you want to target.