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Caught a trophy redfish inshore in Oriental
Redfish inshore in Oriental
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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 game fish along Atlantic coastlines. - They 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 multi-species inshore fishing adventures targeting redfish, bluefish, speckled trout, flounder, and striped bass in the productive waters of Pamlico Sound and Neuse River. This NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure provides all gear and local expertise for catching fish in some of North Carolina's most reliable inshore waters. Light tackle techniques and live bait fishing create action-packed days with consistent redfish catches, while the shallow flats and backcountry areas offer prime habitat for multiple species year-round. Whether you're targeting slot reds or exploring the diverse fishery around Oriental, these guided trips deliver the local knowledge and equipment needed for successful inshore fishing in eastern North Carolina waters.
Fishing Charter with Captain Dave Hegel – Rates & Booking
Captain Dave Hegel of Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters on Thursday July runs a brand new 2025 Parker SE designed for shallow water fishing and stalking inshore species. This NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure accommodates up to 3 guests and targets redfish, bluefish, speckled trout, flounder, and striped bass based on seasonal patterns and current conditions. All fishing gear, tackle, and local expertise are included in your charter rate. Captain Dave focuses on whatever species are "hot" during your trip dates, maximizing your catch ratio in the Pamlico Sound and Neuse River system. Book online to secure your preferred dates and experience the productive inshore fishing that makes Oriental a premier destination for light tackle adventures.
Highlights of NC Charter Multi-Species Fishing Adventure (Red Fish, Bluefish, Speckled Trout, Flounder & Striped Bass.)
The Neuse River and Pamlico Sound offer fantastic year-round fishing opportunities with multiple target species available on every trip. Captain Dave's approach focuses on reading water conditions and fish activity to put you on the most active bite, whether that's slot redfish in the shallows, bluefish schools, or speckled trout around structure. His 2025 Parker SE provides the perfect platform for sneaking into shallow waters where these inshore species feed and hunt.
Recent trips have produced consistent redfish action using live bait and popping cork techniques, with fish ranging from slot-size reds to larger specimens. The diverse fishery means you'll have shots at multiple species during your charter, creating an exciting and productive day on the water. Summer months provide prime conditions for all target species, with partly cloudy skies often creating ideal fishing weather in these protected waters.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in the shallow flats and backcountry waters around Oriental, using the extensive grass beds and oyster bars as feeding grounds and ambush points. These copper-colored drum prefer water depths from 1 to 4 feet, making them perfect targets for sight fishing and light tackle techniques. During summer months, redfish become more active in early morning and late afternoon periods, often feeding aggressively on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish in the shallows. Captain Dave's local knowledge of seasonal patterns and preferred structure gives anglers the best opportunity to connect with quality redfish in the Pamlico Sound system.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your multi-species fishing adventure includes all necessary tackle, bait, and safety equipment aboard Captain Dave's shallow-draft Parker SE. The vessel accommodates up to 3 guests comfortably and features the specialized setup needed for targeting inshore species in varying water depths. Early morning departures typically provide the best fishing conditions, though Captain Dave adjusts timing based on tides, weather, and seasonal fish behavior. All skill levels are welcome, with instruction provided for techniques like popping cork fishing, live bait presentation, and reading water for signs of fish activity.
Fishing in North Carolina: Redfish
Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belong to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These prized game fish are found along Atlantic Ocean coastlines and can be identified by their distinctive copper-red backs that fade to white bellies, plus one or more black eyespots near the tail. In Oriental waters this July, redfish provide consistent action for anglers targeting the shallow flats and backcountry areas of Pamlico Sound.
Redfish Overview
Red drum are highly sought-after inshore game fish known for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. They inhabit coastal waters from Massachusetts to Florida, with North Carolina's Pamlico Sound system providing some of the most productive redfish habitat on the East Coast. Anglers value them for their accessibility in shallow water and their willingness to take both live and artificial baits.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish prefer very shallow waters ranging from 1 to 4 feet deep, making them ideal targets for sight fishing and light tackle techniques. Around Oriental, redfish utilize the extensive grass flats, oyster bars, and creek mouths of the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound as primary feeding and nursery areas. They move with tides and temperature changes, often concentrating in specific areas based on bait availability and water conditions.
Redfish Size and Weight
Redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 to 45 pounds when fully mature. Slot-size fish (18-27 inches in North Carolina) are most commonly caught and provide excellent sport on light tackle, while larger "bull" redfish over 27 inches offer trophy-class fishing experiences.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Red drum are opportunistic feeders that consume crabs, shrimp, mullet, menhaden, and other baitfish. They often feed by "tailing" in shallow water, where their tail fins break the surface as they root for crabs and other bottom-dwelling prey. Peak feeding activity typically occurs during moving tides, early morning, and late afternoon periods.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters during late summer and early fall when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During spawning season, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper waters before moving to traditional spawning grounds, creating excellent fishing opportunities for anglers targeting trophy-size drum.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include live bait fishing with shrimp, crabs, or cut mullet, as well as artificial lures like spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs. Popping cork rigs work exceptionally well in the grass flats around Oriental, allowing baits to suspend at the proper depth while creating attractive noise and movement. In July, anglers around Oriental find success working the shallow flats during incoming tides when redfish move up to feed.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood choice. Popular cooking methods include blackening, grilling, baking, and frying, with the meat holding up well to bold seasonings and various preparation styles.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live or fresh dead shrimp, blue crabs, and cut mullet are top natural baits, while gold spoons, soft plastic jigs, and topwater plugs work well for artificial lures.
Q: Where can I find redfish near Oriental?
A: Focus on shallow grass flats, oyster bars, creek mouths, and drop-offs in the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound system, particularly areas with 1-4 feet of water depth.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have firm white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked, and they're high in protein while being relatively low in fat.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides provide the most consistent action, with summer months offering excellent fishing in the Pamlico Sound area.
More species you can explore on this trip
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Captain Dave runs a brand new 2025 Parker SE specifically designed for shallow water inshore fishing around Oriental and the Pamlico Sound. This specialized vessel allows us to sneak into the skinny waters where redfish, speckled trout, and other inshore species feed, giving you access to prime fishing spots that deeper-draft boats can't reach. The Parker SE features a comfortable layout for up to 3 guests with all the tackle storage and fish-fighting space you need for a successful day targeting multiple species. As part of the Parker Offshore Prostaff, I've set up this boat with everything needed to maximize your catch ratio in the diverse waters of the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound system.
