%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F8615%2Fimages%2F1767814862355355879891_10231248734826913_8079466979329632599_n.jpg&w=1200&q=100)
Caught a Bluefish Inshore in Oriental Oriental
Bluefish Fishing in Oriental, NC
%2F%2Fusers%2F792382ab-206e-4089-a7cf-5e417b469da6%2Fimages%2Fbluefish-bonanza-lawson-creek-park-4451.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Bluefish belongs to the order Perciformes and family Pomatomidae. It typically measures between 15 and 51 inches in length, with a weight range from 3 to 15 lbs. Habitat: nearshore, onshore waters along the Atlantic coast. - Aggressive predator known for schooling behavior and voracious feeding. - Seasonal migrant that follows baitfish along the coast. - Excellent table fare with firm, flaky white meat.
Fishing Charter by Captain Dave Hegel in August
Meet your Captain Dave Hegel
- The Ultimate North Carolina Fishing Trip!
Summary
Captain Dave Hegel of Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters on Saturday May offers guided inshore fishing trips targeting bluefish, redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and striped bass in Oriental's productive waters. These multi-species charters launch from Lawson Creek Park and work the Neuse River channels, grass lines, and structure where warming spring waters draw diverse gamefish. Light tackle fishing with live bait and lures provides exciting action for anglers of all skill levels, with opportunities to catch multiple species in a single outing. All gear, licenses, and local expertise included for a seamless day on North Carolina's premier inshore fishery.
Fishing Charter with Captain Dave – Rates & Booking
Captain Dave Hegel of Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters on Saturday May runs multi-species inshore trips from Oriental targeting bluefish, redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and striped bass. These guided charters accommodate up to 3 guests and include all fishing gear, licenses, and tackle needed for a productive day on the water. Trips launch from Lawson Creek Park and work the productive waters of the Neuse River system, where diverse structure and current seams hold excellent populations of inshore gamefish. Book online to secure your dates and experience some of North Carolina's best inshore fishing action.
Highlights of New Bern, NC Multi-Species Fishing (Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Striper & Blues)
This charter targets five popular inshore species in a single outing, making it perfect for anglers who want variety and consistent action. The Neuse River and surrounding waters offer excellent habitat diversity, from shallow grass flats where redfish cruise to deeper channels that hold striped bass and bluefish. Captain Dave's local knowledge ensures you'll fish the most productive spots based on current conditions, tides, and seasonal patterns.
Light tackle techniques using live bait and artificial lures provide exciting fights while giving you the best chance at multiple species. Whether you're casting to structure, working grass lines, or drifting river channels, each spot offers new opportunities for inshore action in these productive North Carolina waters.
Local Species Insights: Bluefish
Bluefish are aggressive predators that provide some of the most exciting light tackle action in Oriental's waters during spring and summer months. These hard-fighting fish travel in schools and feed voraciously on baitfish, making them excellent targets for both live bait and artificial lures. In May, bluefish move into the Neuse River system as water temperatures warm, often feeding near structure and current breaks where baitfish concentrate. Their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps make every hookup memorable, especially on the light tackle used during these charters.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your trip includes a fully equipped boat with all fishing gear, tackle, and North Carolina fishing licenses provided by Captain Dave. The charter accommodates up to 3 guests comfortably, allowing for personalized instruction and plenty of room to fish effectively. Trips typically start early morning to take advantage of prime feeding times, with departure from Lawson Creek Park providing quick access to productive fishing grounds. Bring sun protection, snacks, and drinks for a full day of inshore fishing adventure in Oriental's scenic waters.
Fishing in North Carolina: Bluefish
Bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) are aggressive marine predators from the family Pomatomidae and order Perciformes. Known for their voracious appetite and hard-fighting nature, bluefish are prized gamefish that provide exciting action for anglers throughout their Atlantic range. In Oriental waters this May, these seasonal visitors offer some of the best light tackle fishing opportunities as they follow baitfish into the Neuse River system.
Bluefish Overview
Bluefish are the only species in the Pomatomidae family, making them unique among marine gamefish. These powerful predators are built for speed and aggression, with razor-sharp teeth and muscular bodies designed for chasing down baitfish. Anglers value bluefish for their fighting ability, willingness to take both live and artificial baits, and excellent table fare when properly handled.
Bluefish Habitat and Distribution
Bluefish inhabit nearshore and onshore waters throughout the Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Nova Scotia to Argentina on the western side and from Spain to southern Africa on the eastern side. They prefer temperate and subtropical waters, making seasonal migrations to follow optimal water temperatures and abundant baitfish populations. Around Oriental, North Carolina, bluefish typically arrive in late spring and remain through early fall.
Bluefish Size and Weight
Adult bluefish typically range from 15 to 51 inches in length, with weights between 3 and 15 pounds. Larger specimens over 20 pounds are possible but less common in inshore waters. The fish caught during charter trips around Oriental usually fall in the 2-8 pound range, providing excellent sport on light tackle while being perfect for the dinner table.
Bluefish Diet and Behavior
Bluefish are opportunistic predators that feed primarily on small schooling fish like menhaden, anchovies, sardines, and herring. They hunt in coordinated schools, often driving baitfish to the surface in feeding frenzies that create excellent fishing opportunities. These aggressive feeders are most active during dawn and dusk but will feed throughout the day when conditions are right.
Bluefish Spawning Season
Bluefish spawn in offshore waters during spring and summer months, with peak spawning occurring when water temperatures reach 68-72°F. Spawning typically happens from April through October, with regional variations based on latitude. During spawning season, adult bluefish may move to deeper offshore waters before returning to nearshore areas to feed.
Bluefish Fishing Techniques
Bluefish respond well to both live bait and artificial lures, making them versatile targets for various fishing techniques. Popular methods include casting spoons, jigs, and topwater plugs to feeding schools, or using live or cut bait near structure and current breaks. In May around Oriental, anglers find success using light tackle with wire leaders to prevent bite-offs, targeting areas where baitfish concentrate near grass lines and channel edges.
Bluefish Is It Good to Eat?
Fresh bluefish offers excellent table fare with firm, flaky white meat and a mild to moderate flavor. The key to great-tasting bluefish is proper handling—bleeding and icing the fish immediately after catch preserves the best flavor. Bluefish is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice. Popular cooking methods include grilling, broiling, and smoking, with the rich flavor pairing well with citrus and herb seasonings.
Bluefish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for bluefish?
A: Bluefish readily take both live and cut bait including menhaden, sardines, and squid. Artificial lures like spoons, jigs, and topwater plugs are also highly effective, especially when fish are actively feeding on the surface.
Q: Where can I find bluefish near Oriental?
A: Bluefish frequent the Neuse River channels, grass lines, and structure around Oriental from late spring through early fall. Look for feeding birds and baitfish activity as indicators of bluefish presence.
Q: Is bluefish good to eat?
A: Yes, fresh bluefish is excellent table fare when properly handled. Bleed and ice the fish immediately after catch for the best flavor, and cook within a day or two for optimal taste.
Q: When is the best time to catch bluefish?
A: Bluefish fishing is typically best during dawn and dusk feeding periods, though they can be caught throughout the day when actively feeding. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action in North Carolina waters.
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Get ready to explore the diverse inshore fishing opportunities of New Bern, North Carolina aboard our comfortable and well-equipped boat. With room for up to three anglers, we'll cruise the Neuse River and surrounding waters in search of prized gamefish like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, striped bass, and bluefish. Our experienced captain knows all the local hotspots, from grass flats to river channels to productive structure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, you'll enjoy hands-on instruction and access to some of coastal North Carolina's best fishing grounds. We provide all the necessary gear and licenses, so you can focus on reeling in a variety of exciting catches. Join us for a day packed with action as we target multiple species and showcase the abundance of New Bern's inshore fishery.
