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Nearshore Fishing Charters In Wilmington

Check real-time availability on Wilmington nearshore fishing trips. Online booking | 5 / 5 stars | Guides from $450

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Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters Near Wilmington, Nc

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Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

100% (3)
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $530
Fishing in Wilmington

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Mixed Bag

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $425
Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

NC Sportfish Adventure

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Crushing The Coastline

NEW
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $460
Fishing in Ogden

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Shark Fishing Trip

NEW
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Carolina Beach

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Carolina Beach Inshore

NEW
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $500

Most Popular Types of Nearshore Trips in Wilmington

Top Species for Nearshore Fishing in Wilmington

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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More Nearshore Fishing Charters Near Wilmington, Nc

Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Full Day Offshore - 26' Maycraft in Wrightsville Beach

Looking for a deep-sea fishing excursion out of Wrightsville Beach, NC? Book a full day offshore charter trip and get ready to experience some of the best sportfishing that the Carolinas have to offer! A full-day trip with Captain Chuck will get you at least 30 miles out, where you can catch just about anything! Your target fish will consist of Gag Grouper on the reefs and rocks, Cobia in the nearshore water, and Mahi Mahi, Kingfish, and Sailfish once you're far out there. To draw bites from all of these different species, you'll use different techniques including bottomfishing, trolling, and drift fishing. This variety is perfect for full-day trips, because you can take a breather in between fighting trophy fish, while bringing home a bunch of different keepers. Captain Chuck operates a 26' Maycraft center console, which is a very versatile vessel made to handle anything from inshore to offshore. She's powered by a 300-HP Yamaha outboard, so you'll have no trouble getting out to the best fishing grounds. She also features a ton of additional gear and amenities to enhance your trip, including trolling gear, live well for your bait, GPS and depth-finders, plus and an icebox to keep your drinks and food cool throughout the day. Captain Chuck will supply everything you need for a top-tier day, including all the rods, reels, and tackle. Bring some sunscreen and a pair of polarized sunglasses, and ready for a fishing adventure like none other! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Full Day Offshore - 26' Maycraft

NEW
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Fishing Charter Special - 26’ C-Hawk in Wrightsville Beach

Head out with Captain Jordan for an awesome day out on the water! You will be fishing from a custom-rigged 26 ft C-Hawk, Equipped with the latest electronics package and safety gear, and provides a comfortable and quick ride to the fishing grounds. As a second-generation fisherman, fishing is in Captain Jordan's blood and the proof is in the pudding when you hop aboard his boat. Launching from Wrightsville beach, Captain Jordan specializes in a variety of nearshore and offshore gamefish including Bluefish, Spanish Mackerel, Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, King Mackerel, and an assortment of bottom fish. You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks. Children of all ages are welcome. Starting times are flexible and custom charters are available to meet your needs. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Fishing Charter Special - 26’ C-Hawk

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Exciting Nearshore Half Day in Wrightsville Beach

Get out there and enjoy the atmosphere of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and discover what fishing opportunities await you. Captain Drew is family and kid-friendly and will make sure put to show you some awesome fishing! Captain Drew runs a 25' Maycraft Pilot House, which combines the serious fishing performance of a bay boat with the comfort and safety of a much larger vessel. You’ll have enough space to move around, and there’s also some shade against the sun. Plus, this boat is equipped with fish-finding sonar equipment, GPS navigation, and a 250HP Yamaha! Fishing will be primarily nearshore locations near Wrightsville Beach, over both sand and artificial reefs. You’ll get a chance to test your skills with light tackle and trolling. Typically, you'll mix it up and chase Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Bonito, and Sharks, depending on the time of year! You won’t need a fishing license as the charter’s got you covered. All the necessary equipment, fishing rods, lures, bait, and ice will be provided. Drew will clean and bag any catch you would like to keep at the end of the trip. There is also FREE PARKING in a private lot during the charter! Clean restrooms and marina store with drinks, snacks, and ice for sale is located a few steps from the boat. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Exciting Nearshore Half Day

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 5 People From $500
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Nearshore Sportfish Roundup in Wrightsville Beach

Looking for an awesome fishing adventure out of Wrightsville Beach, NC? Book a charter trip with Captain Chuck and get ready to experience some of the best sportfishing that the Carolinas have to offer! On this nearshore charter with Captain Chuck, you'll get 10-15 miles offshore, where you can catch a huge variety of nearshore sportfish! This trip is perfect if you want to hook some great fighters and also take home some delicious table fare. On this trip, you'll target Black Seabass and Gag Grouper near rocks and structure, plus Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Redfish, and Bluefish towards the top of the water column. With this many different targets, this trip has something for everyone, regardless of your experience level! Captain Chuck operates a 26' Maycraft center console, which is a very versatile vessel made to handle anything from inshore to offshore. She's powered by a 300-HP Yamaha outboard, so you'll have no trouble getting out to the best fishing grounds. She also features a ton of additional gear and amenities to enhance your trip, including trolling gear, live well for your bait, GPS and depth-finders, plus and an icebox to keep your drinks and food cool throughout the day. Captain Chuck will supply everything you need for a top-tier day, including all the rods, reels, and tackle. Bring some sunscreen and a pair of polarized sunglasses, and ready for a fishing adventure like none other! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Nearshore Sportfish Roundup

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Half Day Spanish Mackerel in Wrightsville Beach

This is a good way to get a feel for your sea legs if you’ve never been offshore before, and it’s a great way to introduce young kids to fishing from a boat. Hop on the boat and it’s a short run to Masonboro Inlet, we’ll have lines in the water within 15 minutes of leaving the dock. We’ll troll for Spanish Mackerel anywhere from right on the beach to a mile or two offshore. On a good half day we can expect to catch well over twenty Spanish Mackerel. They are fun to catch and good to eat. I will clean your fish and bag the filets when we get back to the dock. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Half Day Spanish Mackerel

NEW
26 ft 1 - 5 People From $450
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Nearshore Trolling and Bottomfishing in Wrightsville Beach

On this trip, you'll hit the nearshore waters around Wrightsville Beach, NC, fishing anywhere from 2-10 miles out! There are numerous inlets, jetties, reefs, wrecks, and more to explore, and a ton of species on the menu. You'll have the opportunity to catch a wide variety of popular gamefish species, including Kingfish, Cobia, Amberjacks, Bull Redfish, Albacore, Mahi Mahi, Sharks, and even more! The techniques are up to you; choose between sight fishing and casting artificial lures, to fishing live and cut bait, bottom fishing jetties and docks, or trolling near the beaches. Captain G will be your guide on this fishing trip, and he has years of experience fishing in these waters. He operates a 23' Sea Chaser center console, which is specifically designed for inshore fishing. The boat is equipped with all the necessary fishing gear and equipment, including fishing rods, bait, and tackle, to ensure that you have a successful trip. Your vessel for the day will be Captain G's 23’ Sea Chaser center console. It is one of the newest vessels in the area and is loaded with all the bells and whistles. Multiple live bait wells and fish tanks, along with comfortable seating, hidden rod storage, Bluetooth radio, deck lighting and much more mean that you'll be fishing comfortably all day! Captain G will provide you with expert guidance and tips on how to hook fish and land 'em, and he'll work hard to make sure that you have an enjoyable and productive day on the water. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, Captain G's inshore charter is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of fishing in Wrightsville Beach! So why wait? Book your inshore charter with Captain G today and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Wilmington

Nearshore Trolling And Bottomfishing

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
See All Nearshore Trips in Wilmington

Everything to Know About Booking a Wilmington nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Wilmington?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 17 nearshore trips in Wilmington, and the most popular trips in the area are Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special guided by Jamie, Wilmington Mixed Bag guided by Dave, and NC Sportfish Adventure guided by Joe.

Our guides in Wilmington are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2790 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a Nearshore charter include Wrightsville Beach, Ogden and Carolina Beach.

Looking for kid friendly nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Wilmington? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Wilmington.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Wilmington?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore Fishing are: 1. spanish mackerel, 2. redfish, 3. kingfish, and 4. cobia.

The most common fishing techniques in Wilmington are light tackle fishing, trolling, and bottom fishing but live bait fishing and drift fishing are popular as well.

How much do Wilmington nearshore fishing charters cost?

for nearshore fishing in Wilmington prices can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,040, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Wilmington is $492. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Wilmington is $878.

What month is best for nearshore fishing in Wilmington?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Wilmington is summer, and most anglers book their trips 14 days in advance.

Do I need a Wilmington fishing license and what are the bag limits in Wilmington?

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Wilmington don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Wilmington.

What You Need To Know About Nearshore Fishing In Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina, located along the state's southeastern coast, is a vibrant destination renowned for its nearshore fishing opportunities. This historic port city, situated near the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, provides access to a variety of marine environments conducive to nearshore fishing.

The nearshore waters off the coast of Wilmington teem with a range of fish species, attracting both recreational and serious anglers. Common targets include Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Flounder, Redfish, and Speckled Trout. The area is also known for the opportunity to catch Cobia and occasionally Tarpon, particularly during the summer months.

Wilmington's nearshore fishing benefits from its close proximity to structures like ledges, reefs, and wrecks, which are habitats for diverse marine life. These areas, easily reachable on shorter fishing trips, are excellent for both light tackle and fly fishing.

Local fishing charters and guides in Wilmington are well-equipped to provide anglers with memorable nearshore fishing experiences. These experts know the best local spots and the most effective fishing techniques, catering to all levels of anglers, from those just starting out to experienced fishermen.

Aside from its fishing prospects, Wilmington offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city boasts a charming riverfront, historic downtown, and a variety of cultural attractions. Its proximity to beautiful beaches and the scenic Cape Fear coast makes Wilmington an ideal destination for those who wish to combine fishing with other outdoor and cultural activities.

Wilmington, North Carolina, stands out as a top destination for nearshore fishing, offering a diverse range of fish species and environments close to shore, along with the charm and amenities of a coastal city.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great half-day trip fishing with Capt Jamie near Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. We caught a few fish and learned a lot about the fishery and habitat. Knowledgeable and patient captain. Saw some dolphins, too.

    Tom D. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Caught 30 fish in about 3 hours. Captain Joe was phenomenal.

    Jason M. with Joe C. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great day with Cap. Joe super friendly guy, very knowledgeable and we caught fish left and right. Highly recommend him and we'll definitely book with him again next time.

    Luis G. with Joe C. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    We booked a trip with captain Jaime for two days in the beginning of our trip. My fiancé is an avid fisherman, and was able to pick captain Jamie‘s brain for information on the area, and he gladly shared. Captain brought us to some great spots, and there were some fish caught. We even got to fish one of the shipwrecks from the Civil War, which was amazing. We couldn’t of asked for a more hospitable and kind and knowledgeable guide for this trip.

    Richard G. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    My son and I had such a fun trip with Captain Jamie! He was great with my son, a patient teacher, and he navigated the area with ease. He even tried to hook us a shark! We also saw dolphins and lovely wildlife, and we caught some interesting fish. My son can’t wait to go back and is counting down the days until we see Jamie again!

    Heather B. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Jordan was a great captain! By gosh, by dern, he was going to find some fish for us. Nearly defeated, he found a spot at the end of our trip. He was kind enough to let us fish a bit longer than scheduled so we could pull in a few. Thank you!

    Macy C. with Jordan V. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    I enjoyed the trip and would like to go back out for grouper and mahi

    Leanna S. with Jordan V. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Captain Chuck was terrific and really worked hard to ensure our 10 yo grandson had ax great time and even got him some fish. Highly recommended.

    James D. with Chuck B. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dave was amazing! We went to a few different spots and caught a good bit of fish. Youre guaranteed to have a great time out there!

    Adri P. with Dave W. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great time! Can't wait to go back.

    Kyle G. with Drew Z. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Captain G is the man! We had a blast on our trip chasing reds on soft plastics and fly inshore, hammering flounder at G's secret spot, loading up on Spanish Mackerel at the jetties, running the beaches for cobia and catching bluefish and a 6' Blacktip Shark, and then running a few miles off to try our luck on some amberjack. This trip was a wild nonstop adventure and I came away amazed at the variety of fishing opportunities Captain G can line up at the drop of a hat. There was never a dull moment and G's setup is perfect for skinny water, zipping down the coast, and fishing open water offshore. His gear is top of the line and he was super quick to re-rig tackle when needed so we were keeping lines wet. 10/10 and can't wait to fish with G again sometime soon. -Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. with Guion L. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Joe was the best captain we could ask for.. He put us right on the fish and was hitting almost not stop for the duration.. Highly-qualified and great personality ...

    Kevin L. with Joe C. of Wilmington, North Carolina

Other Types of Fishing in Wilmington

How are fishing conditions in Wilmington?

View Wilmington Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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See All Nearshore Trips in Wilmington