Atlantic Beach's Finest Full-Day Inshore Fishing

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Atlantic Beach, NC
$600 - $1,200 price range

Summary

Captain William Gillikin's 8-hour inshore fishing charter in Atlantic Beach, NC is perfect for beginners looking to catch redfish, speckled trout, and other local fish. You'll spend a full day on the water, with all the gear and licenses provided. The captain offers expert guidance, so even if you're new to fishing, you'll be in good hands. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and snacks for your day out. With room for up to 3 guests, it's a great way to enjoy some quality time fishing the beautiful North Carolina coast. The trip includes drinks to keep you refreshed while you're reeling in your catch. Whether you're after your first redfish or hoping to land a nice speckled trout, this charter gives you a solid shot at some great inshore action. It's a hands-on day of fishing that lets you experience the best of what Atlantic Beach has to offer.

Atlantic Beach's Finest Full-Day Inshore Fishing

Inshore Catches

Local Knowledge Charters at Atlantic Beach

Trophy redfish caught near Atlantic Beach

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing at Atlantic Beach

Trout fishing excitement in Atlantic Beach

Big catch day on Atlantic Beach charter

Full Day Inshore Fishing in Atlantic Beach

Ready to wet a line in some of North Carolina's most productive inshore waters? Captain William Gillikin's got you covered with this full-day charter out of Atlantic Beach. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you're in for a treat as we target redfish, speckled trout, and a whole host of other local favorites. With all the gear and know-how provided, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a sandwich or two. Let's dive into what makes this trip a must-do for anyone looking to experience the best of Carolina fishing.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: 8 full hours on the water, cruising the rich estuaries and backwaters around Atlantic Beach. We're talking prime fishing grounds where the big ones lurk. Captain William's been at this for years, and he knows every nook and cranny where the fish like to hang out. You'll be using top-notch gear – rods, reels, bait, the works – all included in your trip. No need to worry about licenses either; we've got that covered. And to keep you going, we'll have plenty of cold drinks on board. Just remember to pack some grub to keep your energy up for reeling in the big ones.

Fishing 101: Inshore Style

So what's inshore fishing all about? Well, we're not heading out to the deep blue here. Instead, we'll be working the shallow waters close to shore – we're talking bays, creeks, and around the marshes. It's a whole different ballgame from offshore fishing. We might be using light tackle to finesse those trout, or maybe switching it up with some heavier gear if we're after bull reds. Expect to do a mix of casting, drifting, and maybe even some sight fishing if conditions are right. Captain William's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, whether it's live bait, artificial lures, or even fly fishing for those who want to give it a go.

What's Biting?

Atlantic Beach is a hot spot for some of North Carolina's most sought-after inshore species. Let's break down what you might be reeling in:

Redfish (Red Drum): These copper-colored beauties are the crown jewels of inshore fishing. They put up one heck of a fight and can grow to over 40 inches long. We often find them tailing in shallow water or hanging around structure. The best part? They're great eating if you decide to keep a slot-sized fish.

Speckled Trout: Don't let their size fool you – these guys are a blast to catch. Known for their spotted pattern and delicate bite, speckled trout require a bit of finesse. They're most active in cooler months and love to hang around oyster beds and grass flats.

Southern Flounder: Masters of camouflage, flounder are ambush predators that lie flat on the bottom. We'll target them around drop-offs and structure. They might not look like much, but they're delicious on the dinner table.

Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters show up in the warmer months and are a favorite for their fast runs and acrobatic jumps. We'll troll or cast for them in areas where bait fish are plentiful.

King Mackerel: While we're inshore, sometimes we might venture a bit further out if the kings are running. These larger cousins of the Spanish mackerel are known for blistering runs and are a prized catch for many anglers.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing these waters that keeps anglers coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of feeling that first tug on the line, or the satisfaction of landing a personal best. Or perhaps it's just the peace of being out on the water, away from the hustle and bustle. Whatever it is, Captain William's trips have a way of turning first-timers into regulars. The variety of fish, the beautiful scenery, and the chance to learn from a seasoned pro – it all adds up to an experience you'll want to repeat.

Time to Get Your Fish On

So, what do you say? Ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Atlantic Beach has to offer? Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a day on the water, this full-day charter with Captain William is the ticket. We've got the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots – all you need to do is show up ready for action. Don't let another fishing season slip by without getting in on this. Give us a call, book your spot, and get ready for a day of rod-bending, drag-screaming action on the waters of Atlantic Beach. Trust me, the fish are waiting, and so is the adventure of a lifetime. Let's make it happen!

Learn more about the species

King Mackerel

King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are speed demons of the coast. These sleek predators usually weigh 20-30 pounds, but can top 90. Look for them in waters 40-150 feet deep, especially around structures. They're most active in warmer months when they follow bait schools. Kings are prized for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics - hook one, and you're in for a thrill. They're also good eating, though watch out for high mercury levels in bigger fish. To catch Kings, try trolling with live bait like blue runners or menhaden. A local trick: use a stinger rig with two hooks to improve your hookup ratio. These fish have a knack for short-striking baits. When you feel that hit, let the line go slack for a second before setting the hook. It gives the King time to turn the bait and really commit to the strike.

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are one of our most popular inshore targets. These copper-colored bruisers usually run 20-30 inches in the shallows, but can grow much larger offshore. You'll find them tailing in grass flats as shallow as 1-4 feet, often around oyster bars and marsh edges. Fall's prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love Reds for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. To catch 'em, look for 'tailing' fish in shallow water - their tails often break the surface as they root for crabs. Try gold spoons, soft plastics, or cut bait. My local tip: on calm days, sight-cast to cruising Reds using a weedless soft plastic. Approach quietly and make an accurate cast - these fish can be spooky in clear shallows. When you hook up, be ready for some drag-screaming runs. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are inshore favorites here in Atlantic Beach. These silver-sided fish typically run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in grassy flats, around oyster bars, and near deeper channels. They're year-round residents, but fall and spring are prime times when water temperatures are just right. Anglers love Sea Trout for their willingness to hit lures and their delicate, mild-flavored meat. They put up a decent fight too, often making short runs and head shakes. To catch them, try working soft plastics or live shrimp around grass edges. One local tip: on calm mornings, look for subtle surface disturbances - that's often trout feeding on bait. Cast past the ripples and work your lure through the area. These fish have soft mouths, so set the hook with a quick, smooth motion rather than a hard jerk.

Southern Flounder

Southern Flounder are ambush predators that love to hunker down in sandy or muddy bottoms. These flatfish usually run 15-18 inches long, but can get up to 33 inches and 20 pounds. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries. Fall's the best time to target them as they move to spawn. Flounder are popular for their mild, delicate flavor and the challenge of catching them. They're masters of camouflage, so spotting them takes a keen eye. Use live bait like mullet or shrimp, or try artificial lures like jigs. My go-to trick is to fish slowly along drop-offs or around structure, letting your bait bump the bottom. When you feel a bite, give the flounder a moment before setting the hook - they often grab prey sideways before turning it to swallow. Patience is key with these sneaky bottom-dwellers.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are fast-swimming predators that'll give you a run for your money. These streamlined fish typically run 1-2 feet long and 8-11 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often in waters 40-150 feet deep. They love warm water, so late spring through fall is prime time. Look for them around structures in open water or near shores as it warms up. Anglers prize Spanish Mackerel for their speed and tasty meat - they're great grilled or smoked. To catch 'em, try trolling with shiny spoons or live bait like mullet. My local tip: drift-fish near grass flats on incoming tides, using a light leader to avoid spooking these sharp-eyed fish. The fight's short but intense, and you might just land dinner while you're at it.

About the Reel Affair

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Captain William Gillikin's full-day inshore fishing charter offers a laid-back yet rewarding experience in Atlantic Beach, NC. Over 8 hours, you'll cast lines for redfish, speckled trout, and other local catches while soaking in the coastal scenery. Perfect for newbies and seasoned anglers alike, the trip provides all the gear you need - rods, reels, bait, and even your fishing license. The captain's know-how ensures everyone has a fair shot at landing some fish. Remember to pack sun protection, snacks, and clothes suited for a day on the water. With room for up to 3 guests and complimentary drinks on board, it's a comfortable way to explore North Carolina's rich inshore waters. Whether you're after your first catch or looking to refine your technique, this charter delivers a satisfying day of fishing in a beautiful setting.

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