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Caught a Trophy Redfish Inshore in Oriental
Redfish Fishing in Oriental, NC
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The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized gamefish along the Atlantic coast. - These fish can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail and copper-red coloration.
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 Thursday July offers professional inshore fishing targeting trophy redfish and tarpon in Oriental's productive waters. This North Carolina fishing charter specializes in the legendary Old Drum (bull redfish) migration through Pamlico Sound and Neuse River from July through August. With all tackle, licenses, and expert instruction included, anglers experience peak season action using proven techniques from popping corks to cut bait. The charter accommodates up to three guests and focuses on the shallow flats and backcountry areas where these prized gamefish congregate during their annual summer run. Book online for the best inshore fishing North Carolina has to offer during prime redfish season.
Fishing Charter with Captain Dave – Rates & Booking
Captain Dave of Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters on Thursday July provides all-inclusive inshore fishing targeting trophy redfish and tarpon during peak summer season. This North Carolina charter includes fishing licenses for up to three guests, quality tackle, and expert instruction for $650 per trip. The afternoon departure maximizes your time during the legendary Old Drum migration when massive bull redfish and tarpon move into Pamlico Sound from the Atlantic. Captain Dave's local knowledge of productive spots and proven techniques—from popping corks to artificials and cut bait—ensures an exciting day on the water. Book your charter online or call to reserve your spot for this world-class inshore fishing experience.
Highlights of Professional Inshore Fishing Charter North Carolina for Trophy Redfish (Old Drum/Bull Drum) and Tarpon (July- August)
This summer charter targets two of the East Coast's most sought-after species during their peak season in Oriental's waters. The annual migration brings massive bull redfish (Old Drum) and powerful tarpon into Pamlico Sound and Neuse River from July through mid-October, creating exceptional fishing opportunities. Captain Dave focuses on multiple productive spots using light tackle techniques that maximize the fight and excitement of landing these trophy fish.
The all-inclusive experience provides everything needed for a successful day: fishing licenses, quality tackle, and expert coaching through proven methods. Whether you're new to saltwater fishing or an experienced angler seeking a challenge, this charter delivers smooth, exciting, and rewarding action in some of North Carolina's most productive inshore waters.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Oriental's shallow waters, particularly the flats and backcountry areas of Pamlico Sound where they feed aggressively during summer months. These copper-colored gamefish are perfectly adapted to the 1-4 foot depths around oyster bars, grass beds, and creek mouths where they hunt for crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. July through August represents prime time as the legendary Old Drum (bull redfish) migration brings trophy-sized fish weighing 30-45 pounds into these protected waters. Captain Dave targets these fish using light tackle techniques that showcase their incredible power and stamina, making every hookup an unforgettable experience in North Carolina's premier redfish habitat.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your afternoon charter departs from 301 Midyette St in Oriental, positioning you perfectly for the productive waters of Pamlico Sound and Neuse River. The boat accommodates up to three guests comfortably with all necessary safety equipment, quality tackle, and fishing licenses included. Captain Dave provides expert instruction on techniques ranging from popping corks to artificial lures and cut bait, adapting to conditions and fish behavior throughout the trip. The shallow-water focus means comfortable fishing in protected waters while targeting trophy redfish and tarpon during their peak summer activity. Plan for a 6-8 hour adventure with departure times scheduled to maximize fishing during optimal tide and feeding periods.
Fishing in North Carolina: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a premier gamefish from the Perciformes order and Sciaenidae family found along Atlantic Ocean coastlines. Distinguished by one or more distinctive eyespots near the tail and striking copper-red coloration that fades to white on the belly, this species is highly prized by anglers for both its fighting ability and light, flaky flavor. In Oriental waters this July, redfish congregate in the shallow flats and backcountry areas of Pamlico Sound during their legendary summer migration.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are powerful, drum-family gamefish that can live over 40 years and grow to impressive sizes. They're known for their incredible stamina and ability to make long, powerful runs when hooked. Anglers value them as both trophy fish and excellent table fare, with their light, sweet flavor making them a favorite for grilling and blackening.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish prefer shallow coastal waters ranging from 1 to 4 feet deep, thriving in grass flats, oyster bars, creek mouths, and backcountry areas. Around Oriental, North Carolina, they're commonly found in Pamlico Sound and the Neuse River system, where the mix of fresh and saltwater creates ideal feeding conditions. They move between deeper channels and shallow flats based on tides, temperature, and food availability.
Redfish Size and Weight
Redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 45 pounds for mature fish. Slot-sized fish (18-27 inches) are common catches, while the legendary "bull reds" or "Old Drum" can exceed 40 pounds and provide trophy-class fishing experiences.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, menhaden, and other baitfish. They often feed in shallow water with their tails visible above the surface, a behavior called "tailing" that creates exciting sight-fishing opportunities. They're most active during moving tides, particularly around dawn and dusk when baitfish are most vulnerable.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, typically when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During this time, large schools of mature fish gather in deeper waters before moving back to inshore areas, creating excellent fishing opportunities as they feed heavily to recover from spawning activities.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include using popping corks with live or cut bait, casting spoons and soft plastics to tailing fish, and bottom fishing with cut mullet or crab. Light tackle spinning gear allows anglers to fully appreciate their fighting ability. In July around Oriental, anglers find success working the grass flats during incoming tides and targeting oyster bars where redfish ambush prey.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent eating with firm, white meat that has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is low in fat and high in protein, making it healthy and versatile for cooking. Popular preparations include blackened redfish, grilled fillets, and fish tacos. Smaller slot-sized fish typically provide the best table fare, while trophy bulls are often released to preserve the breeding population.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live or cut mullet, shrimp, and blue crab are top choices. Artificial lures like gold spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs are also highly effective, especially when sight-fishing to tailing redfish.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Oriental?
A: Pamlico Sound's grass flats, oyster bars around the Neuse River, and shallow backcountry areas provide excellent redfish habitat. Focus on areas with 1-4 feet of water during moving tides.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have firm, white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or prepared as fish tacos. Slot-sized fish (18-27 inches) typically provide the best eating quality.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Summer months from July through August offer peak action during the bull redfish migration. Fish are most active during moving tides, particularly around dawn and dusk when they feed aggressively in shallow water.
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Captain Dave's custom-built fishing boat is perfectly suited for chasing trophy redfish and tarpon in North Carolina's inshore waters. The spacious deck provides plenty of room for up to three anglers to cast comfortably. High-quality rods, reels, and tackle are neatly organized and ready for action. A raised helm station gives the captain excellent visibility to spot fish, while a shallow draft allows access to prime fishing spots in the Pamlico Sound and Neuse River. The boat's stable design handles choppy conditions with ease, ensuring a smooth ride. A live well keeps bait fresh, and an insulated fish box stores your catch. With ample shade and comfortable seating, you'll stay cool during those hot summer afternoons on the water. This well-equipped vessel has everything needed for successful fishing trips targeting Old Drum redfish and tarpon from July through August.
