North Carolina Fishing Reports 2

Latest Fishing Reports from Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters in Pamlico Sound and the Outer Banks

Trophy Fish Caught

Our fishing reports showcase the incredible catches anglers are reeling in with Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters. From trophy Red Drum and Tarpon to tropical fish like Spanish Mackerel and False Albacore, these waters deliver action-packed days on the water. Recent reports highlight world-class Old Drum fishing in the Pamlico Sound, along with nearshore runs off the Outer Banks that produce Striper, Sea Trout, and Cobia. Each update gives you real-time insight into what’s biting, the techniques Captain Dave is using, and the hotspots delivering results.

Family-Friendly Fishing Adventures

Not every trip is about chasing giant fish—many of our reports feature families enjoying safe, easy-going adventures. Parents love the kid-friendly fishing charters designed to introduce young anglers to Speckled Trout, Bluefish, and other fun-to-catch species. Captain Dave makes sure every trip is relaxed, safe, and enjoyable, so kids learn while having fun and families make memories together. These reports highlight how every age group can enjoy the waters of Pamlico Sound and the Outer Banks without pressure—just great fishing and good times.

Fishing Year-Round in North Carolina

Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters delivers fishing year-round, with each season bringing unique opportunities. Spring brings Speckled Trout, Striper, and Bonita, while summer is prime for tropical fish, slot Redfish, and nearshore runs. Late summer through fall is trophy season, with massive Old Drum filling the Pamlico Sound, and winter keeps things lively with Trout and light tackle action. Our fishing reports keep you up to date on seasonal patterns, local weather conditions, and recent catches so you can plan the best time to book your trip.

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Neuse River Fishing fishing report coverpicture

January 5, 2024

Neuse River - Pamlico, NC Inshore Report on 5th Jan, 2024

Great beginning to the year! Despite the obstacles faced during our fishing expedition in North Carolina, these individuals successfully managed to catch some fish. Our inshore fishing adventure resulted in bountiful catches, including some incredible redfish!

Winter Trout fishing report coverpicture

December 5, 2023

Neuse River - Pamlico, NC Inshore Report on 5th Dec, 2023

Winter trout bite is HOT! Fish are between creek entrances & as far back as you can get. Fish SLOW & then slow down more. Mid Day seems to be peak. Twitch and pause long enough to check your emails. There are some puppy drum schools running as a bonus catch. Mark deep holes and bait with electronics.

Neuse River Trout & Redfish fishing report coverpicture

August 5, 2023

Neuse River - Pamlico, NC Inshore Report on 5th Aug, 2023

Bait balls are starting to become prevalent in the main river, meaning the Bull drum (old drum for us NC people) are going to be in the main river coming to spawn. Today we had one break us off on the Neuse River near Oriental, NC. Angie Lewis of Kenly, NC; did land this beautiful 24" citation trout as well as other fish including blue fish. We are days away from the legendary bait ball bonanza that make this Redfish area the home of 18 of 24 IGFA world records!

Bull Drum are arriving fishing report coverpicture

July 12, 2023

Neuse River Inshore Report on 12th Jul, 2023

Water temperature is up (91 degree water today) and Tarpon & Old Drum (Bulls) are in the Neuse River. We caught a 42" Red today. Covered a lot of water to find fish. focus on bait balks. SW winds will drop the water level and fish seem to be on ledges. Live bait, popping corks and swim baits are your best bet. Go early, the mid day heat makes for a difficult catch.

Pamlico Sound & Neuse River July fishing report coverpicture

July 2, 2023

Neuse River Inshore Report on 2nd Jul, 2023

Water Temperature is right for Tarpon migration & Old Drum (Bulls). Bait balls are present already in the rivers & bluefish schools are everywhere. Great catches of slot drum & trout in main river and sound. Some old drum are already being caught on some trips. As always, the best fishing is rising water from wind tides. Shouldn't be long before the Old Drum schools are around the bait balls. Tarpon rolls are being spotted near the river mouths. Night fishing already productive on the shoals.

June Baitfish are everywhere fishing report coverpicture

June 17, 2023

Neuse River Inshore Report on 17th Jun, 2023

The Neuse River & Pamlico Sound have seen an early arrival of baitfish this year. Blue Fish are schooling at the mouth of the Neuse and numerous slot drum and big trout have been caught.