Rise and shine, anglers! Get ready to hit the waters of Manteo, North Carolina for a dawn patrol fishing adventure you won't forget. Our 4-hour morning charter kicks off at the crack of dawn, giving you prime time on the water when the fish are most active. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip is the perfect way to experience the rich inshore fishing Manteo has to offer. We'll be targeting redfish and sea trout, two of the area's most sought-after species, in the stunning backdrop of the Outer Banks.
We'll meet up at the dock at 5 AM sharp, so grab your coffee and let's go! Our experienced captain will get you set up on our well-equipped charter boat, and we'll head out to some of the local hotspots. We'll spend about 5 hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to get into the action. The morning light on Manteo Sound is something special, and you'll get to see the area wake up as we fish. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll put you right where the fish are biting.
We'll be focusing on light tackle inshore fishing, which is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. You might be using live bait, artificial lures, or a mix of both, depending on what's working that day. We'll show you how to work a popping cork for trout or sight-cast to tailing redfish in the shallows. Don't worry if you're new to this - our guides are patient teachers and will have you casting like a pro in no time. And if you're already experienced, they might just show you a few local tricks to up your game.
"Capt. John and Brad were awesome. They kept us on spec trout all morning. Great day on the water. High recommend for the Salty Charter crew!" - Ted
"Had a great time. John was very nice and accommodating" - Rob
"Good trip great captain and first mate" - Hamilton
Redfish, also known as red drum, are the rockstars of Manteo's inshore waters. These copper-colored beauties can range from "puppy drum" size up to trophy "bull reds" over 40 inches. They're known for their strong fights and distinctive spot near the tail. Fall is prime time for redfish, but we catch them year-round in the sounds and estuaries around Manteo. There's nothing quite like the thrill of seeing a school of reds tailing in shallow water!
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are another local favorite. These silvery fish with spotted sides are prized for both their sporty fight and their tasty fillets. We typically catch them in the 1-3 pound range, but bigger "gator" trout are always a possibility. Sea trout love to hang around structure like oyster beds and creek mouths. They're most active in cooler months, making our morning trips perfect for targeting them. When a school of specks is feeding, the action can be non-stop!
So there you have it, folks - a morning of world-class inshore fishing right here in Manteo. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a beautiful morning on the water, our 4-hour AM charter has you covered. With room for up to 4 anglers, it's perfect for a family outing or a day with your fishing buddies. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture your catches (and maybe a few fish stories to go with them). Ready to join the ranks of our happy anglers? Give us a call or book online - the fish are waiting!
July 3, 2025
Had a great time. John was very nice and accommodating
October 1, 2024
Good trip great captain and first mate
June 1, 2024
Captain John and his mate provided a close and personal experience with inshore fishing in the Manteo area! The interactions with the captain sharing his historical knowledge of growing up in Manteo area made for a Great story telling experience!
August 20, 2024
Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a blast to catch in Manteo Sound. These silvery fish usually run 14-24 inches long, with bigger ones pushing 5 pounds or more. You'll find them in grass flats and deeper channels, often hanging around structure. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Trout put up a good fight and are known for their delicate, flaky meat. What makes them fun is their aggressive strikes - they'll slam a lure hard. For best results, try using soft plastic jigs or topwater lures early in the morning. A local trick: when you see birds diving, there's a good chance trout are feeding below. Cast into the frenzy and hold on tight. In colder months, look for them in deeper holes where they school up. Just remember, these fish have soft mouths, so set the hook gently to avoid tearing it.
Redfish, also called red drum, are a favorite around here. They're typically 20-30 inches long but can grow much bigger. You'll find them in shallow water, often just 1-4 feet deep, hanging around oyster beds, grass flats, and marsh edges. Fall is prime time when they school up to spawn. Anglers love redfish for their strong fight and great taste on the table. That distinctive black spot near the tail? It's not just for looks - it helps confuse predators. When targeting reds, I like to use gold spoons or scented soft plastics. Try working your lure slowly along the bottom, especially on cloudy days when they're actively feeding. Just watch for their tails sticking up out of the water as they root around for crabs and shrimp. It's a sight that'll get your heart pumping every time.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
Capt. John and Brad were awesome. They kept us on spec trout all morning. Great day on the water. High recommend for the Salty Charter crew!