top of page

What is a Fishing Charter, and Why are Fishing Charters so Popular?

Fishing charters offer an unparalleled experience for enthusiasts and novices alike, providing access to expert guidance, top-notch equipment, memorable adventures on the water, and much more. In this article, we will delve into types of fishing charters, why fishing charters are so popular, and how much fishing charters cost. We will discuss these topics amidst the context we know the best: the waters near Morehead City, North Carolina. 


Let’s jump in! 


Types of Fishing Charters


Fishing charters cater to various preferences and skill levels, offering a range of options to suit individual tastes:


  • Deep-Sea Fishing Charters: Venture into the vast expanse of the Gulf Stream for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. On deap-sea fishing charters, you’ll embark from the Morehead City Waterfront and head several miles offshore into the depths of the Gulf Stream. You’ll ride aboard a state-of-the-art vessel equipped to tackle prized sportfish, including Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Blackfin Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, and more. 

  • Nearshore Fishing Charters: Explore the waters beyond jetties and beaches and go up to 25 miles off the coast, enjoying often calmer seas than deap-sea fishing charters and no shortage of exhilarating fishing opportunities. Nearshore trips offer a balance between accessibility and the excitement of battling hard-fighting fish, including Amber Jack, Barracuda, King Mackerel, Cobia, bottom fish, and more.

  • Inshore Fishing Charters: Delve into the serene backwaters and estuaries for a more intimate fishing experience. Inland charters provide non-stop action minutes from the dock, while immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Morehead City's coastal landscape. Explore the picturesque waterways of Bogue Sound and the surrounding estuaries on an inshore fishing charter, targeting species like Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Cobia, Sharks, and more.  

Why are Fishing Charters So Popular?


Fishing charters surge in popularity year after year, attracting both tourists and locals, experts and beginners, and adrenalin junkies and solace seekers. Morehead City fishing charters cater to various preferences and interests, providing access to a rich tapestry of marine experiences. Whether you're craving the adrenaline rush of deep-sea fishing or the serenity of exploring Bogue Sound's tranquil waters, there's a charter option to suit your desires.


Below, we have compiled a list of the top ten reasons behind the fishing charter industry’s ascending popularity. 


  1. Less Work than Owning a Boat: Chartering a fishing boat eliminates the hassle of boat ownership, sparing anglers the expenses and maintenance responsibilities associated with maintaining a vessel. This saves untold amounts of time and money. Fishing charters provide access to top-quality gear and expert guidance without the onerous, full-time commitment of managing a boat.


  1. Unique and Beautiful Way to Explore the Area While on Vacation: For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local marine environment, fishing charters are an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation. One day you can be on the beach in Emerald Isle or Atlantic Beach gazing into the open sea, the next day you can actually be in the open sea on an elite fishing charter enjoying the opposite view. 


  1. Fishing Gear Provided: One of the most significant advantages of fishing charters is the provision of high-quality gear, including rods, reels, and bait. Anglers can focus on the thrill of the catch without worrying about equipment logistics.


  1. Better Catches Than Onshore Fishing: With the guidance of experienced captains and access to prime fishing spots, charter anglers often enjoy more abundant and diverse catches compared to shore-based fishing.


  1. No Need to Worry About Fishing Licenses: Fishing charters include fishing licenses in their packages, ensuring compliance with regulations and eliminating the need for anglers to obtain permits independently.


  1. Camaraderie with Others: Fishing charters foster a sense of camaraderie among participants, providing opportunities to bond with friends, family, or fellow anglers while you forge a new memorable experience.


  1. Anticipation and Thrill of the Catch: The anticipation of hooking a fish and the exhilaration of landing a big catch are unmatched experiences and a big reason people book fishing charters again and again. Each cast holds the promise of an exciting encounter with marine life, and the anticipation builds as the day moves along. Then, when it finally happens and you hook a big one, your adrenalin kicks in and you and your group are really in for a ride!


  1. Immersion in Nature: Spending a day on the water allows anglers to connect with nature on a deeper level, appreciating the beauty and tranquility of coastal ecosystems while engaging in an age-old pursuit. Whether you venture inshore around Bogue Sound, nearshore in the Atlantic, or deep sea in the Gulf Stream, or all three, you will bask in natural splendor and the richness of marine life in the Southern Outer Banks. 


  1. Access to Different Types of Boats: Fishing charters offer the opportunity to experience a variety of vessels, from sleek offshore boats to nimble skiffs, without the commitment of ownership. It allows anglers to tailor their experience to their preferences and explore different fishing techniques. This is a compelling reason to book a fishing charter for those looking for an array of boating experiences and potential buyers. 


  1. Educational Experience: Fishing charters provide valuable learning opportunities, with experienced captains who can share hard-earned, invaluable insights into local marine ecology, fishing techniques, and species behavior. It's a chance for anglers to deepen their understanding of the natural world while honing their fishing skills.


How Much Do Fishing Charters Cost?


The cost of fishing charters in Morehead City varies depending on several factors, including the duration of the trip, the type of charter, and the amenities offered. Typically, deep-sea fishing charters tend to be more expensive due to longer excursions (and thus a larger fuel usage) and specialized equipment, but many people justify the cost due to the excitement of venturing into the Gulf Stream and the opportunity to catch the most sought-after fish in the sea. 


Don’t forget to inquire about any additional fees or surcharges, such as fuel costs, gratuities, or equipment rentals, when booking your fishing charter. It is customary to tip the crew 20% of the charter cost. 


Some fishing charter companies grant discounts for group bookings or offseason trips, so be sure to consider all available options.


Legacy Charter Fishing offers competitive pricing for top-of-the-line service and amenities. A half-day inshore fishing charters (four hours) costs $650; a nearshore fishing charter (eight hours) is $1,700; and a full-day, deap sea fishing charter (twelve hours) is $2,350. 


The schedule fills up quickly, so be sure to book your fishing charter as soon as possible!


Last Cast


In sum, fishing charters are a unique opportunity to ensure an unforgettable adventure on the water, combining the thrill of the catch with the joys of exploration and camaraderie. Whether seeking relaxation, adrenaline, or educational enrichment, anglers of all backgrounds find something to love in the immersive experience of a fishing charter. Morehead City and its surrounding coastal destinations stand as premier destinations for charters, beckoning enthusiasts to cast off into a world of endless possibilities beneath the shimmering waves.

6 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page