Best Beginner Offshore Fishing in Calabash NC

Published Date: July 22, 2025
Fishing

Calabash
$500 - $600 price range

Summary

Join Captain Shad for a laid-back 4-hour fishing trip out of Calabash Inlet, perfect if you're new to saltwater angling. You'll explore both inshore and nearshore spots along the Carolina coast, targeting fish like Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish. The calm waters and expert guidance make this an ideal outing for families, kids, or anyone wanting to try their hand at ocean fishing without any pressure. With all gear, bait, and licenses included, you can just focus on enjoying your time on the water. The boat has plenty of room for up to 6 people, so bring the whole crew along. Keep in mind that while the fishing's great, the scenery's pretty spectacular too. You'll get a real taste of coastal Carolina as you cruise the inlet and shoreline. Just remember, deposits can't be refunded, so pick a day when you're sure to make it out on the water.

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Get Hooked on Calabash: Beginner-Friendly Fishing

Ready to wet a line without the pressure? Captain Shad's got you covered with this laid-back 4-hour trip that's perfect for first-timers and families. We'll cruise the calm waters of Calabash Inlet and sneak out to some nearshore honey holes, giving you a taste of both inshore and offshore action. Whether you're 8 or 80, this trip is all about having fun and maybe landing your first saltwater catch. Don't sweat the gear or licenses – we've got all that covered. So grab the kids, your fishing curious friends, or just treat yourself to an afternoon on the water. Let's see what's biting!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're kicking back on a comfy boat, cold drink in hand, watching pelicans dive as Captain Shad points out local landmarks. We'll start in the protected waters of Calabash Inlet, where you can get your sea legs and practice casting without worrying about waves. As you get comfortable, we might venture a bit offshore to where the bigger fish play. The whole time, Captain Shad's there to show you the ropes – from baiting hooks to reading the water. No pressure, no rush, just good old-fashioned fishing fun. And hey, if the fish aren't biting, the dolphin-watching's usually pretty good too!

Fishing 101: Gear and Techniques

Don't know a rod from a reel? No worries! We use top-notch gear that's easy for beginners to handle. You'll get to try out light spinning tackle, perfect for the species we're after. Captain Shad will show you how to cast, set the hook, and reel in your catch like a pro. We might do some drift fishing, letting the current do the work as we float over prime spots. Or, if the fish are feeling frisky, we could try some light trolling – dragging lures behind the boat to entice those Spanish mackerel. The best part? You don't need to remember any of this. Just show up, and we'll walk you through every step.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Spanish Mackerel: These sleek speedsters are the sprinters of the sea. They're known for their lightning-fast runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Spanish mackerel usually hang out in schools, so when you find one, you've often found the jackpot. They're most active in the warmer months, making them a perfect summer target. Expect fish in the 1-3 pound range, but don't be surprised if a bigger one decides to crash the party. The best part? They're delicious on the grill if you decide to keep a few for dinner.

Bluefish: Don't let their name fool you – these guys are all fight. Bluefish are the bulldogs of the ocean, known for their aggressive strikes and never-say-die attitude on the line. They've got a mouth full of sharp teeth, so we'll handle those for you. Bluefish can range from 2-20 pounds, with the bigger ones affectionately called "choppers" by local anglers. They're around most of the year but really fire up in the fall. If you hook into a school of blues, get ready for some serious action – these fish will test your arms and your drag!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, we get it. Fishing can be intimidating if you've never done it before. That's why folks love this trip – it's all the fun without the fuss. You're not competing with hardcore anglers or worrying about expensive gear. It's just you, your group, and Captain Shad, figuring out this fishing thing together. Maybe you'll catch the biggest fish of your life, or maybe you'll just catch the fishing bug. Either way, you're in for a relaxed afternoon on some of the prettiest water the Carolina coast has to offer. And let's be honest, even if the fish don't cooperate, the stories and memories you'll make are worth the price of admission.

Time to Book Your Spot

So, what do you say? Ready to trade the hustle and bustle for a few hours of salt air and fishing fun? This trip is perfect for families looking to bond, friends wanting to try something new, or anyone who's always wanted to fish but never knew where to start. Remember, we can only take up to 6 people, so it's nice and intimate. All the gear's included, the scenery's top-notch, and who knows – you might just discover your new favorite hobby. Give Captain Shad a call and let's get you out on the water. Just a heads up – that deposit's non-refundable, but trust us, once you're out there with a bent rod and a smile on your face, you won't be thinking about refunds. See you on the boat!

Learn more about the species

Bluefish

Bluefish are aggressive predators that'll give you a real battle on light tackle. They usually range from 2-10 pounds around here, but can get up to 20 pounds. You'll find them in our inlets and nearshore waters from late spring through fall, often in large schools. These fish have a mouthful of sharp teeth, so be careful when unhooking them. Bluefish are known for their feeding frenzies - they'll attack just about any bait or lure that moves. Live bait like mullet or menhaden works great, but metal spoons and topwater lures can trigger explosive strikes too. Early mornings and evenings are prime times to target them. These fish are fun to catch and make good eating when prepared fresh. A local trick: if you see birds diving and bait fish jumping, there's a good chance bluefish are feeding below. Cast into the commotion and hang on!

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are a fast-swimming, streamlined fish you'll find in our coastal waters from spring through fall. They typically run 1-2 feet long and 2-3 pounds, but can get up to 12 pounds. Look for them in large schools near the surface, often around structure or bait balls. These fish put up an exciting fight on light tackle. They're known for their speedy runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Spring and fall are prime seasons as the mackerel migrate along the coast. Trolling with small, shiny spoons or jigs is a reliable method. For the best action, keep an eye out for birds working the water - that often means Spanish are feeding below. These fish make excellent eating too, with a mild flavor that's great grilled or smoked. A local tip: when you spot a school, cast past them and retrieve quickly through the school for more bites.

About the Lady Lisa

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 45

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 150

Ready for a laid-back fishing adventure? Join Captain Shad for a 4-hour trip exploring Calabash Inlet and the Carolina coast. This private charter is perfect if you're new to saltwater fishing or just want a relaxed day on the water. You'll visit both inshore and nearshore spots, giving you a chance to catch Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and other local species. The calm waters and expert guidance make it ideal for families, kids, or anyone looking to try their hand at fishing without any pressure. With room for up to 6 guests, all gear and licenses provided, and scenic coastal views, it's a great way to spend an afternoon. Whether you're hoping to reel in your first catch or simply enjoy being out on the water, this trip offers a fun, easygoing introduction to Carolina coast fishing.

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