Premium Neuse River Multi-Species Fishing Charter

Reel in the Big One on the Neuse River

Get ready to chase some of North Carolina's most sought-after inshore species on this action-packed charter. We're talking bull reds, stripers, specks, and more - all waiting for you in the fish-rich waters of the Neuse River. Capt. Dave Hegel knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's itching to put you on the bite. With his tricked-out Parker SE, we can sneak into the skinny water where the big boys hide. So grab your hat and let's go catch some memories!

What's Biting Today?

On the Neuse, every day brings a new adventure. One minute you're battling a bruiser bull red, the next you're finessing speckled trout from the grass beds. Capt. Dave's got his finger on the pulse of what's hot, targeting the species that are most active. Whether it's sight-casting to tailing reds or working deep holes for stripers, we're all about putting fish in the boat. And with a max of 3 anglers, you'll have plenty of elbow room to work those rods when the action heats up.

Rigs and Tactics for Success

Forget about one-size-fits-all fishing. We tailor our approach to what's working best. Some days it's all about live bait - nothing beats a frisky mullet for tempting those old drum. Other times, we'll sling artificials, working soft plastics or topwater lures to coax strikes from aggressive fish. Capt. Dave's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, whether it's slow-trolling the channel edges or precision-casting to structure. His Parker SE is rigged to the gills with top-notch gear, so all you need to bring is your game face.

Raves from Happy Anglers

"Last day of the year and we still found fish! Capt. Dave was the best!" - Kate

"We had an awesome experience with Captain David Hegel. Caught a bunch of large red drum, black drum, trout and blues so you can't ask for more than that for a day on the water. He kept us focused but was super cool at the same time so we could relax and enjoy the day. Great guy but knows his stuff. You can't go wrong with Captain David for a great day of fishing! Thanks!" - Daryl

"We had an epic day, Capt Dave fought thru a windy and rough morning, tried 3 spots that were too choppy and said "plan D" and we killed it, limit on Reds, released 3 over the limit back, lots of bluefish, an incredible trout we released after lots of pics and an amazing day...all because he cared to help me make a memory withy 2 sons!" - Denis

Target Species Breakdown

Redfish (Red Drum): The crown jewel of Neuse River fishing. These copper-colored brutes can top 40 inches and pull like a freight train. We target them year-round, but fall is prime time when big schools of bull reds invade the river. Nothing beats the sound of a screaming drag when one of these bad boys picks up your bait. Slot-sized reds (18-27 inches) offer great action and make for some mighty fine eating too.

Striped Bass (Rockfish): Hard-fighting and delicious, stripers are a favorite target in cooler months. They'll crush topwater lures, inhale live bait, and generally put on one heck of a show. We find them around structure, drop-offs, and sometimes busting bait on the surface. Landing a 30+ inch striper is a real possibility here on the Neuse.

Speckled Trout: These spotted beauties are prized for both their fight and their flavor. We catch them year-round, but fall and spring offer peak action. Specks love to ambush bait around grass beds, oyster bars, and creek mouths. Light tackle and finesse presentations often yield the best results. A gator trout over 5 pounds is a true trophy on any inshore trip.

Bluefish: When the blues are running, hold onto your rod! These toothy critters are pure muscle and attitude. We often find them in wolf packs, slashing through bait schools and striking at just about anything that moves. Blues in the 2-5 pound range are common, with some gators pushing 10+ pounds. They're a blast on light tackle and make for some mean fish tacos.

Flounder: While not always the primary target, flatties are a welcome bonus on any trip. These ambush predators lie in wait on sandy or muddy bottoms, ready to pounce on unsuspecting bait. We catch them drifting live bait or working soft plastics along drop-offs and channel edges. A doormat flounder is a true prize, both for the fight and the dinner table.

Time to Get Your Lines Wet

Look, the fish are out there waiting, and Capt. Dave's ready to put you on 'em. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to tangle with some bull reds or a family wanting to make some fishing memories, this trip's got you covered. The Neuse River's got some of the best inshore action you'll find anywhere, and now's the time to get in on it. So what are you waiting for? Book your spot, grab your sunscreen, and let's go bend some rods!