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Top-Rated Emerald Isle Fishing Charters | Offshore

  • Published Date: July 16, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Emerald Isle, NC
  • $600 - $1,200 price range

Summary

Get ready for a great day of fishing off Emerald Isle, NC with Reel Knotty Fishing Charters. We'll take you offshore where the big fish bite, targeting prized catches like mahi, mackerel, billfish, and wahoo. Our boat has room for up to 6 guests, and we provide all the fishing gear you'll need. Just bring some snacks and drinks to keep your energy up while you're reeling in the big ones. For everyone's safety, we don't allow smoking or alcohol on board. This trip is perfect for anglers looking to land some serious offshore species. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or trying it for the first time, our crew will make sure you have a productive day on the water. Don't forget your camera – you'll want to show off your catches!
Top-Rated Emerald Isle Fishing Charters | Offshore

Offshore Action Shots

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Angler holding a brown bullhead fish in NC

Lovely day to go out fishing in NC!

Scenic landscape in North Carolina

nice sunny day out in the waters of NC!

Stunning landscape in NC

Giant catches in North Carolina waters!

Red Grouper fish caught in NC

Grouper hooked in NC Charters!

Scenic landscape with mountains in North Carolina

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Fishing in North Carolina

Nice day out in the waters of Emerald Isle!

Angler fishing in the serene waters of Emerald Isle

Sail with us in the waters of North Carolina!

Two anglers fishing in North Carolina

Lots of Wahoo biting in Emerald Isle fishing!

Two people fishing in North Carolina

Great day to go out Emerald Isle Fishing Charters!

Person fishing in NC

Great catch for this kid in NC charters

Angler holding a brown bullhead fish in NC

Lovely day to go out fishing in NC!

Scenic landscape in North Carolina

nice sunny day out in the waters of NC!

Stunning landscape in NC

Giant catches in North Carolina waters!

Red Grouper fish caught in NC

Grouper hooked in NC Charters!

Scenic landscape with mountains in North Carolina

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Fishing in North Carolina

Nice day out in the waters of Emerald Isle!

Angler fishing in the serene waters of Emerald Isle

Sail with us in the waters of North Carolina!

Two anglers fishing in North Carolina

Lots of Wahoo biting in Emerald Isle fishing!

Two people fishing in North Carolina

Great day to go out Emerald Isle Fishing Charters!

Person fishing in NC

Great catch for this kid in NC charters

Angler holding a brown bullhead fish in NC

Lovely day to go out fishing in NC!

Scenic landscape in North Carolina

nice sunny day out in the waters of NC!

Stunning landscape in NC

Giant catches in North Carolina waters!

Red Grouper fish caught in NC

Grouper hooked in NC Charters!

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Reel In the Big One: Emerald Isle Fishing

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to chase some serious fish in the crystal-clear waters off Emerald Isle? You're in for a treat with our offshore fishing charters. We're talking about the kind of day where you might land a monster mahi-mahi or battle a wahoo that'll make your arms ache (in the best way possible). Our trips are perfect for both seasoned fishermen looking for a challenge and newbies hoping to snag their first big catch. So grab your hat and sunscreen—let's hit the Gulf Stream and see what's biting!

What to Expect on the Water

First things first—we've got you covered on gear. No need to lug your tackle box; we provide top-notch rods, reels, and bait. Our boat's equipped with everything you need for a day of offshore fishing, from fish finders to fighting chairs. We'll cruise out to the hotspots where the big boys hang out, usually 20-40 miles offshore. The Gulf Stream's warm waters attract a smorgasbord of game fish, so be ready for action. And hey, don't forget to pack some grub and drinks. Nothing works up an appetite like reeling in a trophy fish, and we want you fueled up for the whole trip. Just remember, we keep it clean out here—no booze or smokes on board. Safety first, folks!

Techniques That Hook the Big Ones

Out here in the deep blue, we use a mix of trolling and live bait fishing to target the prize catches. We'll set up a spread of lines behind the boat, using a combo of artificial lures and fresh bait. When we're after mahi-mahi, you might see us tossing out some live bait near floating debris—that's where these colorful fighters love to hang out. For wahoo, we'll often use high-speed trolling techniques with specialized lures. And if we're lucky enough to spot some billfish, get ready for the thrill of pitching baits and watching these majestic creatures light up. Don't worry if you're new to these methods; our crew's always happy to show you the ropes and help you perfect your technique.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish): These guys are the showstoppers of the offshore world. With their vibrant blues, greens, and yellows, they're as beautiful as they are delicious. Mahi are known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water once hooked. They're fast growers and can reach up to 30 pounds in their first year. Best of all, they're abundant in our waters from spring through fall, with peak season in the summer months. When you hook one, be ready for a spectacular battle!

Wahoo: If you're after speed, wahoo's your fish. These streamlined predators are one of the fastest fish in the sea, clocking speeds up to 60 mph. They're a prized catch not just for their fight, but for their tasty white meat. Wahoo tend to be loners, but when you find one, there's a good chance others are nearby. We typically target them year-round, but fall and winter can be particularly productive. Landing a wahoo is a true test of an angler's skill—and a story you'll be telling for years.

Spanish Mackerel: Don't let their smaller size fool you; Spanish mackerel pack a punch. These swift swimmers are known for their fast runs and aerial displays when hooked. They're most abundant in our waters during the warmer months, usually from April to September. Spanish mackerel are not only fun to catch but also make for some fantastic eating. Their meat is perfect for grilling or smoking, and they're often a favorite for fish tacos.

Atlantic Sailfish: Now we're talking bucket list fish. Sailfish are the holy grail for many sport fishermen, known for their stunning sail-like dorsal fin and incredible speed. These billfish are catch-and-release only, but the thrill of bringing one boatside is unforgettable. They're most common in our waters from May to September, but can be caught year-round. When a sailfish decides to take your bait, be prepared for an adrenaline-pumping fight complete with spectacular jumps and blistering runs.

Top Catches This Season

Folks, the fishing's been on fire lately! We've been seeing some monster mahi in the 30-40 pound range, lighting up the water with their electric colors. Wahoo have been thick too, with several customers landing fish over 50 pounds. And let me tell you, nothing beats the look on an angler's face when they hook into their first sailfish—we've had a few of those magical moments already this year. The Spanish mackerel have been schooling up nicely too, providing fast action and filling up coolers for those who want to bring home dinner. Remember, the ocean's always changing, so every trip's a new adventure. Who knows? You might be the one to land our next record catch!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing these waters that keeps our customers coming back year after year. Maybe it's the rush of hooking into a big mahi and watching it dance across the waves. Or perhaps it's the camaraderie that builds when everyone's working together to land a trophy wahoo. Our regulars tell us it's a mix of the stellar fishing, the knowledge of our crew, and the laid-back vibe we've got going. We're not just here to put you on fish—we want you to have a blast doing it. Plus, there's nothing quite like cruising back to the dock with a cooler full of fresh fish and a camera roll full of memories.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, if you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of the ocean's most exciting game fish, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our Emerald Isle fishing charters fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some new species to your list or a newbie eager to learn the ropes, we've got you covered. Remember, we can take up to 6 people, so grab your fishing buddies or bring the family for an unforgettable day on the water. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing the thrill of offshore fishing in one of North Carolina's most beautiful coastal areas. Give us a call or book online—we can't wait to show you what Emerald Isle fishing is all about!

Learn more about the species

Atlantic Sailfish

Atlantic sailfish are the acrobats of the big game world. These majestic fish average 6-8 feet long and 60-80 pounds. We find them in the warmer Gulf Stream waters, usually 20-30 miles offshore. Peak season is May through July, but we can catch them year-round. Sailfish are prized for their spectacular aerial displays - they'll leap and dance across the surface when hooked. It's all catch-and-release, focused on the thrill of the fight. To target them, we slow-troll live baits like ballyhoo or mullet. Pro tip: when a sail appears in the spread, drop back a bait and let it swim naturally. The key is patience - wait for the fish to fully eat the bait before setting the hook. Get ready for the fight of your life!

Atlantic Sailfish

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi are some of the most exciting fish to target off Emerald Isle. These colorful speedsters average 15-30 pounds but can reach over 80. Look for them near floating debris and weed lines, especially in summer and fall. Mahi are super aggressive and will hit just about any lure or bait you throw their way. They put on an acrobatic show when hooked, leaping and tail-walking across the surface. The meat is delicious too - firm, white, and mild. For the best action, troll rigged ballyhoo or cedar plugs at 6-9 knots. When you hook one, keep the boat moving forward to attract others in the school. Mahi travel in groups, so multiple hookups are common if you play it right.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel are one of our most popular nearshore targets. These fast, aggressive fish typically run 2-4 pounds but can reach 12. We find them in large schools around inlets, piers, and just off the beaches. They're most abundant from April through October when water temps are above 68°F. Macks are a blast on light tackle, making blistering runs and aerial leaps. They're also excellent eating, with firm, flaky meat perfect for grilling. To catch them, try trolling small spoons or jigs at 4-6 knots. My local tip: look for diving birds to find feeding schools, then cast small silver lures into the frenzy. Spanish mackerel hit fast and furious, so be ready for non-stop action when you find them.

Spanish Mackerel

Wahoo Fish

Wahoo are the speedsters of the offshore world, capable of 60 mph bursts. These sleek, striped fish average 30-50 pounds but can top 100. We find them along ledges and dropoffs, often 20-30 miles out. Late summer through fall is prime wahoo time here. Anglers love targeting them for their blistering runs and excellent table fare. To land one, you've got to troll fast - 12-15 knots is the sweet spot. Use wire leaders and heavy tackle, as their razor-sharp teeth will slice through lighter gear. My top wahoo trick is to rig a big planer ahead of your lure to get it deeper in the water column. These fish hit hard and fight harder, so hang on tight when that reel starts screaming!

Wahoo Fish

About the Contender (Center Console)

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 42

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Ready for some serious offshore action? Hop aboard our fishing charter in beautiful Emerald Isle, North Carolina. We'll take you out to where the big ones hang out - we're talking Mahi, Mackerels, Billfish, Wahoo, and more. No need to lug your own gear; we've got all the fishing equipment covered. Just bring some snacks and drinks to keep you going during the day. This trip is all about the fishing, so we keep things simple - no smoking or booze on board. With room for up to 6 people, it's perfect for a small group looking to reel in some impressive catches. The waters around Emerald Isle are teeming with fish, and our experienced crew knows just where to find them. Don't let this chance slip away - book your spot now and get ready to make some serious fishing memories off the Carolina coast.
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Finest Emerald Isle Fishing Charter

Thank you for visiting the footer page of Reel Knotty Fishing Team, your premier fishing charter in Emerald Isle, NC, led by Captain Travis Speight. Our dedicated team is committed to providing unforgettable fishing experiences in the picturesque waters of Emerald Isle. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Captain Travis Speight ensures that every fishing trip is tailored to your preferences and guarantees a successful and thrilling adventure. Explore our website for more information on our fishing charters, including inshore, nearshore, and offshore options, as well as specialized trips targeting specific species such as red drum, flounder, and Spanish mackerel. Book your charter with Reel Knotty Fishing Team today and make lasting memories on the beautiful waters of Emerald Isle, NC.

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