Atlantic Beach PM Offshore Fishing Charters

Afternoon Fishing Fun in Atlantic Beach

Ready for some laid-back afternoon fishing action? Our half-day PM charter out of Atlantic Beach, NC is perfect for both seasoned anglers and families looking to wet a line. We'll cruise the coastal waters targeting some of the area's most popular gamefish like Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and more. Our experienced local guides know exactly where the fish are biting and how to put you on them. With top-notch gear provided and fish cleaning included, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and don't forget the sunscreen).

What to Expect on the Water

As we push off from the dock, you'll feel the excitement build. The afternoon sun glints off the water as we head to our first fishing spot. Your guide will get you set up with rods, reels, and the right bait for the day's conditions. Whether you're new to fishing or have been doing it for years, we'll make sure you're comfortable and ready to catch. We typically start by targeting Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish, which often school up in the afternoon hours. As we move between spots, keep an eye out for diving birds – that's often a sign of feeding fish below. Don't be surprised if we hook into some Black Sea Bass or even a King Mackerel along the way. The best part? When you land a keeper, we'll clean and fillet it for you back at the dock. Nothing beats fresh fish for dinner after a day on the water.

Fishing Techniques & Gear

On our PM charters, we use a mix of light tackle and trolling techniques to target different species. For Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish, we often troll with small spoons or jigs. This method lets us cover more water and find the schools of fish. When we locate a hot spot, we might switch to casting lures or live bait. For bottom fishing species like Black Sea Bass, we'll use heavier tackle with cut bait or squid. Our boats are equipped with quality rods and reels from brands like Penn and Shimano, so you know you're fishing with the good stuff. We also use fish finders and GPS to locate productive areas and keep track of our honey holes. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques – your guide will walk you through everything and help you perfect your technique throughout the trip.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Spanish Mackerel are one of our top targets on afternoon charters. These speedy fish are known for their acrobatic jumps and hard-fighting nature. They typically range from 1-3 pounds but can get larger. Spanish Mackerel love to chase fast-moving lures, making them a blast to catch on light tackle. They're most abundant from late spring through fall, with peak season in the summer months. Anglers love Spanish Mackerel not just for the fight, but also for their delicious, flaky white meat.

Bluefish are another favorite among our charter guests. These toothy predators are aggressive feeders and put up a great fight on light tackle. They can range from 2-20 pounds, with most catches in the 3-5 pound range. Bluefish often travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're available year-round but are most active in the warmer months. While some folks find Bluefish too "fishy" for eating, when properly handled and prepared, they can make for some tasty meals.

Black Sea Bass might not be as flashy as some other species, but they're a reliable target and great eating fish. These bottom-dwellers typically range from 1-5 pounds and are known for their firm, white flesh. We find them around structures like reefs and wrecks. The best part about Sea Bass is that they're often eager biters, making them perfect for anglers of all skill levels. They're available year-round, but the biggest fish are often caught in the cooler months.

King Mackerel, often called "Kings," are the big cousins of Spanish Mackerel. These fish can grow over 50 pounds, though most catches are in the 10-20 pound range. Kings are known for their blistering runs and are a prized catch for many anglers. We typically target them by slow-trolling live bait. While they're not as common as some other species, hooking into a King can be the highlight of any fishing trip. They're most abundant from late spring through fall.

Grey Triggerfish are an interesting catch that we sometimes encounter while bottom fishing. These odd-looking fish have powerful jaws (be careful handling them!) and put up a surprisingly good fight for their size. Most Triggerfish we catch are in the 1-3 pound range. They're excellent eating fish with a sweet, firm flesh. Triggerfish are typically found around structures and reefs, often in the same areas as Sea Bass. They're available year-round but are most active in the warmer months.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about afternoon fishing in Atlantic Beach. As the day winds down, the water often calms, creating perfect conditions for spotting fish activity. The changing light can trigger feeding frenzies, leading to some of the best action of the day. Our PM charters are popular with families because they allow for a relaxed morning before hitting the water. Many of our repeat customers love the laid-back vibe of these trips – it's a great way to unwind after a busy day or kick off an evening of coastal fun. Plus, there's nothing quite like watching the sun set over the water as you reel in your last catch of the day.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to experience the thrill of Atlantic Beach fishing for yourself? Our half-day PM charters are the perfect way to get out on the water without committing to a full day. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to add some new species to your catch list or a family wanting to try fishing for the first time, we've got you covered. Remember, we provide all the gear and know-how – you just need to bring your enthusiasm (and maybe a cooler for your catch). Spots fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to book. Give us a call or book online today, and let's get you out on the water for some afternoon fishing fun in Atlantic Beach!