Ready for a laid-back evening on the water that's perfect for newbies? Captain Jason's got you covered with this beginner-friendly night fishing trip right here in Morehead City. We're talking 4 hours of easy-going action, targeting redfish and trout as they come alive under the dock lights. No need to stress if you've never held a rod before – this trip is all about learning the ropes in a chill, no-pressure setting. By the time you're done, you'll be hooked on the thrill of night fishing and have some cool stories to tell.
Picture this: You're cruising out as the sun dips below the horizon, the water getting calmer by the minute. Captain Jason's got the inside scoop on all the best dock light hotspots where the fish are practically lining up to bite. He'll walk you through everything step-by-step, from how to work those artificial lures to the tricks for reeling in the big ones. It's like having your own personal fishing coach, but way more fun. And with room for just 4 people max, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time to really nail those techniques.
Night fishing's a whole different ball game, and we've got all the right gear to make it a breeze. We're talking lightweight rods that are easy to handle, even for total beginners. Captain Jason's got a stash of glow-in-the-dark lures that drive the fish wild – it's like disco night underwater. You'll learn how to "pop" these lures just right to mimic baitfish and get those predators fired up. And don't worry about fumbling around in the dark; we've got lights on board to keep things visible without spooking the fish. It's all about finesse and feel, and by the end of the night, you'll be casting like a pro.
While we're waiting for bites, Captain Jason's got a million stories about the local waters and the characters who fish 'em. You might hear about the time a dolphin tried to snag someone's catch right off the line, or get the lowdown on which dock light once produced a redfish so big it nearly spooled the reel. It's not just about catching fish – it's about soaking up that coastal vibe and becoming part of the local fishing scene, even if it's just for one night.
Redfish, or red drum if you're feeling fancy, are the rockstars of Morehead City's inshore scene. These copper-colored beauties can grow over 40 inches long, but the ones we're after are typically in the "slot" size – perfect for a good fight without wearing you out. Redfish love to cruise around those dock lights, picking off baitfish and crustaceans. They've got a sensitive "whisker" on their chin that helps them feel out food in low light, which is why night fishing for them is so effective.
As for sea trout (spotted seatrout to be precise), these guys are the ninjas of the night fishing world. They've got reflective eyes that give them killer night vision, making them experts at ambushing prey in the dark. Trout are known for their soft mouths, so landing one takes a bit of finesse – it's a great chance to practice your gentle touch on the rod. When you hook into a big 'speck' (as the locals call 'em), get ready for some acrobatics as they leap and twist trying to shake the hook.
Look, daytime fishing's great and all, but there's something special about being out on the water after dark. For one, it's way cooler temperature-wise, which is a big plus in the summer months. The water's usually calmer too, so even if you're prone to getting a bit queasy, you should be fine. Plus, there's this whole mysterious vibe – you never know what might pop up in your light. Could be a school of mullet, could be a curious crab, or it could be that trophy red you've been dreaming about. It's like a treasure hunt, but instead of X marking the spot, it's the glow of your lure in the water.
So there you have it, folks – a night fishing trip that's tailor-made for beginners but still packs enough excitement to get seasoned anglers pumped. Whether you're looking to try something new, want to beat the daytime heat, or just love the idea of reeling in a fish under the stars, this is the trip for you. Captain Jason's got all the gear, all the know-how, and all the patience to make sure you have a blast. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give Flippin Out Guide Service a shout and get ready for a night on the water you won't forget. Who knows? You might just end up with a new favorite hobby – and some tasty fish for dinner!
Redfish, also called red drum, are a blast to catch in the shallow waters around Morehead City. These bronze-colored bruisers typically run 20-30 inches but can get much bigger. Look for them tailing in water as shallow as 1-4 feet deep, often around oyster beds, grass flats, and marsh edges. Fall is prime time as they school up, but we catch them year-round. Anglers love redfish for their powerful runs and their delicious, mild-flavored meat. When sight-fishing, ease up quietly and make accurate casts with soft plastics or gold spoons. A local tip: on calm days, scan for their copper-colored backs breaking the surface as they feed. Once you spot them, a well-placed cast often results in an explosive strike. Just be ready to hold on tight when they make that first powerful run!
Sea trout are a favorite target around Morehead City, especially at night. These silvery fish typically run 14-24 inches and put up a great fight on light tackle. You'll find them hanging around dock lights after dark, feeding on shrimp and small fish. Fall and spring are prime seasons, but we catch them year-round. Anglers love sea trout for their aggressive strikes and delicate, flaky meat that's excellent for the table. When fishing for them, try using soft plastic jigs or topwater lures and work them with a slow, twitching retrieve. A local trick is to listen for their distinctive "pop" as they feed on the surface - that'll tell you exactly where to cast. Sea trout can be a bit finicky, so matching your lure to what they're feeding on is key to success.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 38
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150