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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 Saturday May offers guided multi-species fishing trips targeting redfish, speckled trout, flounder, striped bass, and bluefish in Oriental's productive inshore waters. These New Bern area charters provide excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to experience North Carolina's diverse coastal fishery, with trips launching from convenient locations like Lawson Creek Park. The Neuse River system and surrounding waters offer prime habitat for inshore gamefish, with grass lines, river channels, docks, and structure providing consistent action throughout the fishing season. Light tackle techniques and live bait presentations prove effective for targeting multiple species in a single outing, making these charters ideal for families and groups seeking variety and excitement on the water.
Fishing Charter with Captain Dave Hegel – Rates & Booking
Captain Dave Hegel of Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters on Saturday May provides comprehensive multi-species fishing experiences targeting redfish, speckled trout, flounder, striped bass, and bluefish in Oriental's prime inshore waters. These guided trips accommodate up to 3 guests and include all necessary fishing gear, licenses, and local expertise for a seamless day on the water. Trips launch from convenient locations like Lawson Creek Park, providing easy access to the productive fishing grounds of the Neuse River system. Captain Dave's knowledge of local structure, current seams, and seasonal patterns ensures anglers experience the best of North Carolina's inshore fishery. Book your charter online or call for current rates and availability.
Highlights of New Bern, NC Multi-Species Fishing (Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Striper & Blues)
This charter targets five distinct inshore species in a single outing, offering variety and excitement for anglers of all experience levels. The Neuse River and surrounding waters provide diverse habitat from shallow grass flats to deeper river channels, each holding different species throughout the tide cycle. Light tackle fishing with live bait and artificial lures allows for hands-on instruction and maximum enjoyment when fighting these gamefish. The scenic beauty of the New Bern area adds to the overall experience, with clear waters and stunning coastal landscapes providing the perfect backdrop for your fishing adventure.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in Oriental's shallow inshore waters, particularly around grass lines, oyster bars, and river mouths where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. These copper-colored gamefish are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, making them a favorite target for light tackle enthusiasts. May represents excellent timing for redfish action, as warming water temperatures draw these fish into the shallows for extended feeding periods. Captain Dave's local knowledge of structure and tidal movements ensures anglers are positioned in the right spots when redfish are most active, whether sight-fishing the flats or working deeper channels during tide changes.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your multi-species fishing adventure includes all necessary tackle, bait, and fishing licenses, with Captain Dave providing expert instruction on techniques specific to each target species. The charter accommodates up to 3 guests comfortably, making it perfect for small groups or families wanting personalized attention on the water. Trips typically launch from Lawson Creek Park or similar convenient locations, with departure times adjusted to match optimal tidal conditions for the best fishing opportunities. Bring sun protection, snacks, and drinks for a full day of inshore action in some of North Carolina's most productive fishing waters.
Fishing in North Carolina: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a highly prized gamefish belonging to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These distinctive copper-colored fish are easily identified by one or more black eyespots near their tail and their characteristic red-bronze back that fades to a white belly. In Oriental waters this May, redfish provide some of the most exciting inshore fishing opportunities along North Carolina's coast.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Atlantic coast, valued for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. These drum family members can live over 40 years and are known for their ability to adapt to various salinity levels, making them common in both brackish rivers and nearshore ocean waters.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish prefer shallow coastal waters including grass flats, oyster bars, river mouths, and backcountry areas with depths ranging from 1 to 4 feet. Around Oriental and the Neuse River system, they frequent areas with structure like docks, creek mouths, and submerged vegetation where they can ambush prey.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-size fish in the 18-27 inch range are most commonly caught inshore, while larger bull redfish are often found in deeper nearshore waters.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, menhaden, and other baitfish. They often feed in shallow water during rising tides, using their downward-facing mouths to root through sand and mud for crustaceans. Peak feeding activity typically occurs during dawn and dusk periods.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During spawning season, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper waters before moving inshore to feed and recover.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include sight-fishing with live bait like shrimp or mullet, casting spoons and soft plastics to feeding fish, and bottom fishing with cut bait near structure. In May, anglers around Oriental find success using light tackle with 15-20 pound test line, targeting grass edges and oyster bars during moving tides.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is versatile for grilling, blackening, or baking, and provides high-quality protein with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Smaller slot-size fish typically offer the best eating quality.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, mullet, and cut bait work exceptionally well, along with artificial lures like gold spoons, soft plastic paddle tails, and topwater plugs during active feeding periods.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Oriental?
A: Target shallow grass flats, oyster bars, creek mouths, and areas around docks in the Neuse River system, particularly during moving tides when redfish are most active.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening, offering a mild flavor that appeals to most palates.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides typically produce the best action, with spring and fall months offering some of the most consistent fishing.
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.
