Premier Offshore Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Wrightsville Beach, NC
$400 - $1,000 price range
Updated Date: July 18, 2025

Summary

Ready for an offshore adventure? Join Captain Jason of Let's Hook Up Charters for a 6 to 8 hour trip out of Wrightsville Beach, NC. You'll be bottom trolling for a mix of tasty catches like Snapper, Grunt, Grouper, and Kingfish. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned angler, this trip offers plenty of action and the chance to reel in some impressive fish. With room for up to 6 guests, it's a great day on the water for friends or family. Captain Jason knows these waters well and will put you on the fish while making sure everyone has a good time. You'll be fishing some of the area's best spots, so get ready to feel that tug on your line and create some lasting fishing memories. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so book your spot and get ready for a solid day of offshore fishing.

Premier Offshore Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Offshore Catches

Sea bass caught in NC

12 sea bass caught at Wrightsville Beach

Full catch: plentiful tilapia!

Catch of the day: sleek cobia!

Three fish caught at Wrightsville Beach while fishing

Plentiful catch: diverse selection of fish!

Wrightsville's Offshore Bounty: 6-8 Hour Adventure

Ready to get your hands on some serious offshore action? Let's Hook Up Charters has you covered with our 6 to 8-hour trip out of Wrightsville Beach, NC. We're talking about the kind of fishing that'll have you grinning from ear to ear and maybe even sore the next day (in the best way possible). Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, Captain Jason's got the know-how to put you on the fish. So grab your sunscreen and let's hit the Gulf Stream for some world-class bottom fishing!

What to Expect on the Water

Once we clear the inlet, it's go time. We'll be heading to some prime spots where the bottom's crawling with tasty targets. You'll be dropping lines for a mixed bag of snappers, grunts, groupers, and if we're lucky, maybe even a kingfish or two. The beauty of this trip is the variety – one minute you're wrestling with a hard-fighting grouper, the next you're finessing a snapper off the reef. Captain Jason's been doing this for years, so he knows exactly where to find the hot bites. And don't worry if you're new to this; we'll show you the ropes and have you fishing like a pro in no time.

Bottom Trolling Basics

Alright, let's talk technique. Bottom trolling is our bread and butter on these trips. We'll be using heavy-duty rods and reels, loaded with braided line to feel every nibble. The key is keeping your bait close to the bottom where the big boys hang out. We'll be using a mix of live bait and cut bait – whatever's working best that day. When you feel that thump, it's time to set the hook and hang on! It's a workout, but trust me, when you're reeling up a monster grouper from 100 feet down, you'll be too excited to notice the burn in your arms.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Let's break down some of the heavy hitters you might tangle with out there:

King Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch. They'll make your reel scream as they peel off line. Kings can top 50 pounds, and they're known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. Late spring through fall is prime time for these bad boys.

White Grunt: Don't let the name fool you – these fish put up a solid fight. They're abundant around our reefs and make for some fantastic eating. Grunts are year-round residents, so you've got a good shot at hooking into a few any time you're out.

Red Snapper: The crown jewel of bottom fishing. These ruby-red beauties are coveted for their flaky, sweet meat. They love structure and can grow to impressive sizes. The fight is intense as they try to dive back to their rocky homes. Snapper season is limited, so when it's open, we go hard after these guys.

Spanish Mackerel: The smaller cousins of the kings, Spanish macks are fast and furious. They travel in schools, so when you find them, it's often non-stop action. These fish are perfect for light tackle enthusiasts and make for some killer fish tacos.

Gag Grouper: Now we're talking about some serious muscle. Gags are known for their powerful first run – they'll try to break you off in the structure if you let 'em. But if you can turn their head, you're in for a great battle and an even better dinner. These brutes are most active in cooler months.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks, this isn't just fishing – it's an experience. There's something special about being out on the open water, surrounded by that endless blue. You've got the sun on your face, the salt in the air, and the anticipation of what might be on the end of your line. And when that rod bends over and the fight begins, well, that's what memories are made of. Plus, with a 6-person max, you're getting a personalized trip. Captain Jason's not just here to put you on fish; he's here to make sure you have a top-notch day on the water, swapping stories and maybe even learning a new trick or two.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the fishing, but the truth is, you've got to experience it for yourself. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer, scratch that fishing itch, or just enjoy a day away from it all, this trip's got you covered. We provide all the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots – all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a cooler for your catch). Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so when you're ready to commit to some serious fishing fun, give us a shout. The fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Don't let this chance slip away – let's get you hooked up with some Wrightsville Beach beauties!

Learn more about the species

Gag Grouper

Gag Grouper are hard-fighting bottom dwellers that can really test your gear. You'll find them around rocky structures and reefs in 60-250 feet of water. Most weigh 10-20 pounds, but they can top 50 pounds. The best time to target them is fall through winter when they move to shallower water. Gags are known for their powerful initial run, trying to get back to their rocky lairs. Anglers love the challenge and the reward of some excellent table fare. To catch one, use heavy tackle and drop large live baits like pinfish or grunts to the bottom. Here's a tip: when you feel the bite, reel fast and pull hard to get the fish away from structure. Once you get them off the bottom, keep steady pressure. These fish don't give up easily, so be ready for a battle all the way to the boat!

King Mackerel

King Mackerel are prized fighters that can reach up to 90 pounds, though 20-30 pounders are more common. These speedsters cruise the coastal waters from 40-150 feet deep, hanging around structures and bait schools. Look for them April through October when water temps are 68-84°F. Kings are known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked - be ready for an arm-wrestling match. Their firm, oily flesh makes excellent smoked fish dip too. To land a big one, try slow-trolling live bait like blue runners or menhaden. Keep your bait near the surface and be ready for explosive strikes. When a king hits, let it run before setting the hook to make sure it's got the bait. These fish can be tricky, so stay alert and enjoy the battle.

Red Snapper

Red Snapper are a prized catch, known for their beautiful red color and delicious taste. You'll find them hanging around reefs and wrecks in 60-300 feet of water. Most weigh 5-10 pounds, but they can grow over 30 pounds. The best time to target them is summer through fall when they're most active. Snappers put up a strong fight, often trying to dive back to structure when hooked. Anglers love the challenge and the reward of some of the best-tasting fish in the sea. To catch one, use heavy tackle and drop your bait right to the bottom. Live bait like pinfish or cigar minnows work great. Here's a tip: when you feel a bite, reel up quickly to get the fish away from the structure before it can break you off. Be ready for a battle - these fish don't give up easily!

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are fast-moving fish that provide exciting light tackle action. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around inlets and nearshore structures. Most run 1-2 feet long and weigh 2-4 pounds. Look for them spring through fall when water temps are above 70°F. These speedsters are known for their quick runs and acrobatic leaps when hooked. Anglers love targeting them for their fight and tasty flesh. To catch Spanish Mackerel, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind planer boards. Live bait like pilchards works great too. Here's a local tip: watch for birds diving on bait schools - that's often a sign Spanish Mackerel are feeding below. When you find them, cast small lures into the school and retrieve quickly. The bite can be fast and furious, so be ready for non-stop action!

White Grunt

White Grunts are feisty bottom dwellers that put up a fun fight on light tackle. You'll find them around reefs, docks, and mangroves in waters up to 100 feet deep. Most run 6-12 inches, but they can reach 20 inches and 5+ pounds. Grunts are active year-round but really turn on in warmer months. They're opportunistic feeders, so shrimp, squid, or cut bait will do the trick. Listen for their signature grunting sound when you reel one in - that's how they got their name. Anglers love targeting grunts for their hard-fighting nature and tasty white meat. Here's a local tip: chum with some crushed shellfish to get a school fired up. Once they start biting, you can catch them one after another. Just remember to check regulations, as there are some harvest limits in place.

About the Let's Hook Up Charters

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 45

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready to hit the waves for some serious fishing action? Join Captain Jason on his well-equipped charter boat for a 6 to 8 hour offshore adventure from Wrightsville Beach. This spacious vessel comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests, perfect for a day out with friends or family. You'll head to prime fishing spots where the action is hot, targeting a variety of prized catches like Snapper, Grunt, Grouper, and Kingfish. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned pro, the captain's expertise ensures everyone on board has a great time and the best shot at landing a big one. With all the necessary gear provided, you can focus on reeling in your next trophy fish and soaking up the coastal vibes. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture those proud moments with your catch!

Sitemap