Epic 10hr NC Offshore Fishing | Atlantic Blue

Offshore Fishing Bonanza: NC's Hidden Treasures

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to push past the breakers and into the deep blue? Atlantic Blue Charters has got you covered with our epic guided offshore fishing trip off the coast of North Carolina. We're talking serious fishing time here - way more than your average day trip. Whether you're itching to troll for the big ones or drop lines for some bottom-dwelling beauties, we've got the know-how and the hotspots to fill those fish boxes!

Trip Overview

Picture this: You're out on the open water, salt spray in your face, and nothing but blue horizons all around. That's what you're in for on our extended offshore adventure. We're not just dipping our toes in - we're going all in. With extra hours on the water, we've got time to mix it up between trolling and bottom fishing. Summer trips? Man, that's when things really heat up. We're talking mahi-mahi dancing on the surface, king mackerel hitting lures like they're going out of style, and if Lady Luck's on our side, maybe even a sailfish to get your heart racing. Don't sweat the gear or licenses - we've got all that covered. Just bring some grub, your favorite drinks, and a whole lot of stoke for a day of serious fishing!

What to Expect on the Water

Alright, let's break it down for you. When we're trolling, we're covering some serious water. We'll have lines out the back, skipping along the surface or diving deep, depending on what's biting. It's a game of patience and explosions of action when a fish strikes. Now, when we switch to bottom fishing, that's a whole different ball game. We're dropping lines straight down, feeling for that telltale thump of a grouper or snapper taking the bait. It's all about reading the bottom structure and knowing where those fish are hiding. We've got top-notch electronics to find the honey holes, and years of experience to know just how to work them. Expect to cycle through different techniques as we figure out what the fish want on any given day. And hey, six-person max on board means everyone gets their fair share of the action!

Top Catches This Season

Let me tell you, the fishing's been on fire lately! We've been hauling in coolers full of tasty treats. King mackerel have been running strong, putting up one heck of a fight on light tackle. Cobia? Those bruisers have been showing up in force, and let me tell you, they'll test your arms and your drag! Amber jacks are always a blast - we call 'em reef donkeys for a reason, they pull like freight trains. And don't even get me started on the bottom fishing. We've been hitting the grouper and snapper hard, with some real beauties coming over the rails. Triggerfish might not be the biggest, but pound for pound, they're some of the best eating out there. Oh, and if you're lucky enough to be out here when the mahi are running? Hold onto your hats, folks - it's non-stop action that'll have you grinning from ear to ear!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Grey Triggerfish: Don't let their small size fool you - these feisty little guys put up a surprisingly good fight! They hang around reefs and structures, usually in 60-300 feet of water. Triggerfish are known for their tough, leathery skin and powerful jaws that can crush shellfish. They're crafty, too - they'll try to dive back into their hole when hooked, so you've got to be quick on the reel. Best of all? They're absolutely delicious, with firm, white meat that's perfect for fish tacos.

Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish): These are the showstoppers of the offshore world. Bright colors, acrobatic jumps, and they grow fast - we're talking up to 7 feet long! Mahi are surface feeders, often found near floating debris or weedlines. They're a summer specialty here, usually showing up in good numbers from May to September. When you hook one, it's like you've connected your line to a live wire. They'll tailwalk across the surface, change directions on a dime, and generally put on one heck of a show. And talk about good eating - mahi is some of the sweetest, most versatile fish you'll ever taste.

Wahoo: Speed demons of the sea, wahoo are built for the chase. These streamlined predators can hit speeds of up to 60 mph and are known for their blistering runs. We typically target them by trolling at high speeds with lures that can handle the pace. Wahoo tend to be loners, but when you find one, there's a good chance there are more nearby. They're most common in our waters from late spring through fall. Landing a wahoo is always a thrill - not just for the fight, but for the table fare. Their meat is firm, white, and mild-flavored, perfect for grilling or searing.

Red Snapper: These are the prize of the Gulf, and we're lucky enough to get them on the Atlantic side too. Red snapper are bottom dwellers, usually found near reefs, wrecks, or other structures in waters 60-440 feet deep. They're not the fastest fighters, but they've got power - when they're hooked, they'll head straight for their hidey-holes, and it's up to you to turn them. The bigger ones can top 40 pounds! We target them year-round, but the bite can be especially good in the warmer months. As for eating? Let's just say there's a reason these fish are so popular. Flaky, sweet, and perfect for just about any cooking method.

Gag Grouper: These bruisers are the heavyweight champs of the bottom-fishing world. Gags like to hang around rocky ledges and reefs, usually in waters 60-250 feet deep. When you hook one, be ready for a battle - they'll dive for cover and use their bulk to their advantage. It's all about getting them up off the bottom before they can wrap you around structure. We can target gags year-round, but they tend to move to deeper waters in the winter. If you manage to land a big one, you're in for a treat. Grouper meat is firm and mild, great for everything from sandwiches to fancy dinners.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen up, folks - if you're itching for some world-class offshore action, this is your ticket. We're talking about a full day on the water, with more fishing time than you can shake a rod at. From the thrill of battling a wahoo to the satisfaction of pulling up a mess of snapper, this trip's got it all. And remember, we're limited to six anglers max, so every trip feels like a private charter. Don't let this season pass you by - the fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Give Atlantic Blue Charters a call, and let's get you out there where the big ones live. Trust me, once you've fished these waters, you'll be hooked for life!