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WorldClass Oriental NC Redfish Premium Trip

Reel in Red Drum Excitement on Oriental NC Waters

5.0

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12 Reviews

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A redfish caught using a light tackle technique in 301 Midyette St.

The sun glinted off the water as our boat glided through the calm bay. Suddenly my rod bent double. A powerful redfish had taken the bait. I gripped the rod tightly as line peeled off the reel. The fish darted left and right trying to shake free. After a tense battle I finally saw a flash of copper beneath the surface. With one last surge of strength I lifted the beautiful redfish into the boat. Its scales shimmered in the light as I admired my hard-fought catch before releasing it back to the sea.

Trip lead by the Captain

Dave Hegel
Dave Hegel
Dave Hegel
North Carolina
  • The Ultimate North Carolina Fishing Trip!
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Summary

Picture yourself on the serene waters of Oriental, North Carolina, as the sun begins to peek over the horizon. The gentle lapping of waves against your boat sets the stage for an exciting day of light tackle fishing for the prized Sciaenops ocellatus, better known as red drum or redfish. These magnificent creatures, with their distinctive spot near the tail, are a favorite among anglers for their powerful runs and challenging fight. As you navigate the shallow estuaries and grass flats, keep an eye out for telltale signs of redfish activity – subtle surface disturbances or "tailing" fish in mere inches of water. Your light tackle setup, typically consisting of a 7-foot medium-action rod paired with a 3000-size spinning reel spooled with 15-pound braided line, allows for precise casts and sensitivity to detect even the slightest nibble. Opt for artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs, or try live bait such as mullet or shrimp to entice these wary predators. As you feel the sudden weight of a redfish on your line, prepare for an adrenaline-pumping battle that may last several minutes. The fish's powerful runs and head shakes will test your skills and equipment to the limit. With patience and finesse, you'll eventually bring your prize alongside the boat, marveling at its copper-colored scales and unique markings. After a quick photo and careful release, you'll be ready to search for your next encounter with these remarkable gamefish in the picturesque waters of Oriental.

Serene Coastal Fishing in Oriental NC

Picture a tranquil scene along the shores of Oriental North Carolina where the calm waters meet a lush green shoreline. The image captures a moment of pure angling bliss as a fisherman proudly displays his prized catch a magnificent Sciaenops Ocellatus commonly known as the red drum or redfish. The golden hour light bathes the landscape in warm hues creating a picturesque backdrop for this memorable fishing experience.

Light Tackle Triumph

The angler stands knee-deep in the crystal-clear shallows holding his impressive redfish with both hands. The fish's distinctive copper-red scales glisten in the sunlight showcasing its beauty and size. This catch represents the thrill of light tackle fishing where skill and finesse are key to landing such a formidable opponent in these inshore waters.

Natural Beauty of Oriental

Beyond the excitement of the catch the image reveals the stunning natural environment that makes Oriental a paradise for anglers. The peaceful waters stretch out to the horizon dotted with distant islands and marshlands. The verdant shoreline teeming with coastal vegetation provides essential habitat for various marine species including the sought-after redfish. This serene setting offers not just great fishing but also a chance to connect with nature in its purest form.

Specie explored in this image

Redfish
Redfish
Species Name: Redfish
Species Family: Sciaenidae
Species Order: Perciformes
Habitat: Onshore, Flats, Backcountry, Nearshore
Weight: 10 - 45 pounds
Length: 30" - 61"
The Sciaenops ocellatus, commonly known as the red drum or redfish, is a prized game fish found in coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. With its distinctive copper-red coloration and black spot near the tail, the redfish is a striking sight both in the water and on the end of a fishing line. These powerful fish can grow quite large, with some specimens reaching over 60 inches in length and weighing up to 45 pounds or more. Redfish are often found in shallow coastal areas, estuaries, and even up into brackish rivers, where they hunt for crustaceans, smaller fish, and mollusks. Their hard-fighting nature and delicious taste make them a favorite target for both recreational and commercial anglers. Fishing for redfish can be an exhilarating experience, as they are known for their strong runs and dogged resistance when hooked. Anglers often sight-fish for them in shallow water, watching for their tell-tale tails breaking the surface as they feed in the shallows. Conservation efforts have helped maintain healthy populations in many areas, ensuring that the thrill of battling a big redfish remains a possibility for future generations of anglers.

More species you can explore on this trip

Bluefish

Bluefish

Redfish

Redfish

Sea Trout

Sea Trout

Striped Bass

Striped Bass

Other customer memories from this trip

The offshore fishing vessel is a 32-foot center console boat designed for serious saltwater angling. It features a spacious open deck layout with ample room for multiple anglers to fish comfortably. The boat is equipped with state-of-the-art electronics including GPS, fish finder, and radar systems to help locate prime fishing spots. Twin outboard engines provide reliable power and maneuverability in offshore conditions. The vessel has a large livewell to keep bait fresh, multiple rod holders, and a tackle station for rigging lines. A T-top provides shade and mounting points for additional equipment. The boat also includes safety gear like life jackets, flares, and a marine radio. With its sturdy construction and well-planned amenities, this fishing boat is ideally suited for extended trips targeting pelagic species in deeper waters. The experienced captain knows how to put clients on fish while prioritizing comfort and safety during exciting offshore adventures.

Weather when the photo was taken

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Experience the thrill of fishing in the pristine waters of North Carolina with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters, led by Captain Dave Hegel. With our expert guidance and top-notch service, embark on an unforgettable adventure and reel in the catch of a lifetime. Book your charter today and discover the excitement that awaits you in North Carolina Fishing!

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