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Kid-Friendly OBX Fishing: 2-Hour Inshore Charter

  • Published Date: August 19, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Manteo, NC
  • $300 - $1,800 price range

Summary

Looking for a quick and fun fishing trip for the kids in the Outer Banks? Captain John's two-hour charter is perfect for introducing young anglers to the sport. You'll head out on the inshore waters of North Carolina, targeting easy-to-catch species like pinfish and white croaker. The focus is on bottom fishing techniques, giving kids a chance to get comfortable with rods and reels while enjoying plenty of action. With a max of four guests, there's plenty of personal attention as you explore the beautiful coastal waters. Captain John loves sharing his passion for fishing and the Outer Banks with families. It's a great way to spend a couple hours on the water and maybe spark a lifelong love of fishing in your little ones. The steady action and variety of fish make this an ideal intro to saltwater angling for kids.
Kid-Friendly OBX Fishing: 2-Hour Inshore Charter

Kids' First Catches

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Spotted Weakfish measuring 10 inches caught while fishing in NC

Feisty Speckled Trout!

Lone angler fishing in Manteo

Impressive Redfish!

A man holding a large redfish in Manteo

Massive Redfish!

Redfish caught in NC waters

Epic Redfish!

Hooking a redfish in the clear waters off Manteo!

Hooking a redfish in the clear waters off Manteo!

Huge 36-inch redfish caught while deep sea fishing in Manteo!

Huge 36-inch redfish caught while deep sea fishing in Manteo!

Deep sea jigging pays off with a bluefish catch!

Deep sea jigging pays off with a bluefish catch!

Reeling in the elusive Spotted Weakfish off Manteo's stormy coast!

Reeling in the elusive Spotted Weakfish off Manteo's stormy coast!

Redfish caught while fishing in NC

Powerful Redfish!

Redfish caught in Manteo

Solid Redfish!

Spotted Weakfish measuring 10 inches caught while fishing in NC

Feisty Speckled Trout!

Lone angler fishing in Manteo

Impressive Redfish!

A man holding a large redfish in Manteo

Massive Redfish!

Redfish caught in NC waters

Epic Redfish!

Hooking a redfish in the clear waters off Manteo!

Hooking a redfish in the clear waters off Manteo!

Huge 36-inch redfish caught while deep sea fishing in Manteo!

Huge 36-inch redfish caught while deep sea fishing in Manteo!

Deep sea jigging pays off with a bluefish catch!

Deep sea jigging pays off with a bluefish catch!

Reeling in the elusive Spotted Weakfish off Manteo's stormy coast!

Reeling in the elusive Spotted Weakfish off Manteo's stormy coast!

Redfish caught while fishing in NC

Powerful Redfish!

Redfish caught in Manteo

Solid Redfish!

Spotted Weakfish measuring 10 inches caught while fishing in NC

Feisty Speckled Trout!

Lone angler fishing in Manteo

Impressive Redfish!

A man holding a large redfish in Manteo

Massive Redfish!

Redfish caught in NC waters

Epic Redfish!

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Kid-Friendly Fishing Fun in the Outer Banks

Ready to give your kids their first taste of fishing in the beautiful Outer Banks? Captain John's got just the ticket with this quick two-hour charter that's perfect for young anglers. We'll cruise the inshore waters, targeting easy-to-catch species that'll keep those fishing rods bouncing. It's all about having a blast on the water and maybe sparking a lifelong love of fishing!

Trip Overview

This charter is tailor-made for families looking to introduce their little ones to the joys of fishing without overwhelming them. We'll stick to the calmer inshore waters, where the action is steady and the fish are cooperative. Captain John knows all the sweet spots where pinfish and white croaker hang out, ensuring your kids will feel the thrill of reeling in their very own catch. The trip is short and sweet - just long enough to keep the kids engaged without testing their patience. Plus, you'll get to soak in the stunning coastal scenery of the Outer Banks while making memories that'll last a lifetime.

Fishing 101 for Kiddos

We keep things simple and fun on this trip, focusing mainly on bottom fishing techniques that are easy for kids to grasp. Captain John will show your little anglers how to bait their hooks, cast their lines, and feel for those telltale nibbles. We use light tackle that's sized right for smaller hands, making it easier for kids to handle. As we drift over productive spots, your children will learn the basics of jigging and how to adjust their technique based on what the fish are doing. It's hands-on learning at its finest, with plenty of laughs and high-fives along the way.

Why Families Love This Trip

There's something special about seeing a kid's face light up when they feel that first tug on the line. Parents rave about how patient and encouraging Captain John is with young anglers, always ready with a tip or a helping hand. The short duration is perfect for shorter attention spans, and the calm inshore waters mean less chance of seasickness for sensitive tummies. Plus, the diverse marine life in the Outer Banks often leads to surprise catches that keep things exciting - you never know when a curious crab or playful pufferfish might make an appearance!

Inshore Species Spotlight

Pinfish are the perfect "starter fish" for young anglers. These feisty little guys are abundant in the Outer Banks waters and put up a fun fight on light tackle. Kids love their shimmery scales and the way they seem to dance on the end of the line. Pinfish are active year-round but are especially plentiful in the warmer months. They may be small, but they're mighty - and catching a bunch of them is sure to boost any kid's fishing confidence.

White croaker, also known locally as "sea mullet," are another great target for budding fishermen. These silvery fish are often found in schools, which means when you find one, you've usually found a bunch! They're known for their distinctive croaking sound (hence the name) and their tasty white meat. White croaker are most active in the spring and fall, making them an excellent target for shoulder season trips. Kids get a kick out of their whisker-like barbels and the satisfying weight of a good-sized croaker on the line.

What to Expect on the Water

When you climb aboard Captain John's boat, you'll be greeted with a friendly smile and all the gear you need for a successful fishing trip. We provide rods, reels, bait, and tackle sized appropriately for young anglers. The boat is clean, well-maintained, and equipped with safety gear for peace of mind. As we head out, Captain John will share some local knowledge about the Outer Banks and point out interesting sights along the way. Once we reach our fishing grounds, he'll give a quick lesson on how to use the equipment and what to look for when you're trying to hook a fish. Then it's lines in the water and let the fun begin!

Tips for a Top-Notch Trip

To make the most of your family fishing adventure, here are a few insider tips: 1. Dress in layers - the weather can change quickly on the water. 2. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for everyone. 3. Pack some snacks and water to keep energy levels up. 4. Bring a camera to capture those proud "first fish" moments. 5. Let the kids take the lead - it's more fun when they feel in charge of their catch!

Outer Banks Fishing Magic

There's something special about fishing in the Outer Banks that keeps families coming back year after year. Maybe it's the way the sun glints off the water as you cast your line, or the gentle rocking of the boat as you wait for a bite. Perhaps it's the rich history of these waters, where pirates once roamed and shipwrecks still lie hidden beneath the waves. Whatever it is, this little slice of North Carolina coastline has a way of capturing hearts and creating lifelong anglers. And with Captain John as your guide, you're tapping into generations of local knowledge and a genuine love for sharing the magic of fishing with newcomers.

Beyond the Fishing

While the focus is on fishing, this trip offers so much more. It's a chance to unplug from screens and connect with nature. Kids will learn about marine ecology, boat safety, and the importance of conservation. They might spot dolphins playing in the wake or seabirds diving for their own catch. And let's not forget the lessons in patience, perseverance, and the sweet reward of success when that first fish comes over the rail. These are the kinds of experiences that shape childhoods and create stories that get told and retold for years to come.

Time to Cast Off!

Ready to give your kids a taste of the fishing life in the Outer Banks? This two-hour charter with Captain John is the perfect way to dip your toes in the water (figuratively speaking, of course). It's just long enough to hook some fish and create some awesome memories, without overwhelming young attention spans. Whether you're local to North Carolina or visiting from out of state, this trip offers a unique way to experience the beauty and bounty of the Outer Banks. So why wait? Grab your crew, book your spot, and get ready for some family fishing fun. The fish are biting, and Captain John can't wait to show your kids the ropes. Let's make some waves and some memories - book your Outer Banks fishing adventure today!

Learn more about the species

Pinfish

Pinfish are small but feisty little guys, usually 4-5 inches long. You'll find them hanging around seagrass edges and mangrove areas, often in big schools. They're active during the day, especially in warmer waters. Kids love catching these because they're abundant and bite readily. Use small hooks or even nets to catch 'em. They're covered in sharp spines, so watch your fingers! Pinfish make great live bait for bigger species. To catch your own, try chumming near seagrass flats with bits of squid or shrimp. Early morning is prime time. While they're not good eating themselves, pinfish are key players in the local food chain. A sabiki rig works well if you're after a bunch for bait. Just drop it down 30-50 feet and get ready for some action!

Pinfish

White Croaker

White croakers are perfect for getting kids hooked on fishing. These bottom-dwellers hang out in shallow waters, usually 10-100 feet deep. They're small, typically 8-9 inches, but can reach up to 16 inches. Look for them near piers, in bays, and along muddy bottoms. They'll eat just about anything, making them easy to catch year-round. Use a simple bottom rig with squid as bait – that's their favorite. Bright lures work well too, especially chartreuse. White croakers don't put up much of a fight, but they're fun to catch in numbers. Just be aware, some areas have eating advisories due to contaminants. For best results, fish during their peak spawning months of February and March. A local trick: try ghost shrimp if squid isn't working. These fish make a croaking sound, which is pretty cool for the kids to hear!

White Croaker

About the Sportsmen (Center console)

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Hop aboard for a laid-back two-hour fishing trip perfect for kids in the beautiful Outer Banks. Captain John loves nothing more than showing youngsters the ropes of inshore fishing. You'll target easy-to-catch species like pinfish and white croaker that'll keep the little ones engaged and excited. Using simple bottom fishing techniques, the captain will help your kids get comfortable handling rods and reeling in their catches. With room for up to 4 guests, it's an ideal outing for families looking to spend some quality time on the water together. The calm inshore waters provide a great environment for introducing kids to fishing without any intimidating waves or deep sea adventure. By the end of your trip, don't be surprised if your young anglers are hooked on this fun outdoor activity. Book your family-friendly charter today and create some special memories in North Carolina's scenic Outer Banks.
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