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Premier 8-Hour Fall Fishing Adventure | Flying Fish
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Harkers Island
- Updated Date: November 28, 2025
Summary
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Rods Bent, Reels Screaming
Full Day Fishing: Sharks, Mackerel & More
Get ready for a wild ride on the waters off Harkers Island, NC! This full-day trip with Flying Fish Charters is all about chasing the action, whether that's in the open ocean or hugging the coast. We're talking lightning-fast False Albacore, bruiser Bull Drum, and acrobatic sharks that'll have you hanging on for dear life. No two trips are the same, and that's half the fun. So grab your sunscreen, leave your expectations at the dock, and let's go find some fish!
What to Expect on the Water
This ain't your grandpa's lazy day of fishing. We're talking about a full-throttle, 8-hour adventure that'll keep you on your toes from start to finish. Depending on what Mother Nature throws our way, we might be bombing out to the blue water or sticking to the inshore honey holes. Either way, you're in for some serious rod-bending action. We've got room for 3 anglers, so bring your A-team or make some new fishing buddies. Just remember to pack your own grub – we'll be too busy chasing fish to worry about lunch breaks!
Techniques & Hotspots
Get ready to flex those angling muscles! We'll be mixing it up with a variety of techniques to match our target species. For those False Albacore (we call 'em "Albies"), it's all about sight fishing. You'll be scanning the water for those telltale surface blitzes, then making pinpoint casts to hook into these speed demons. When we're after sharks or Amberjack, we might switch to some heavy-duty bottom fishing or slow-trolling live baits. And don't worry if you're new to this – your captain's got years of experience and will have you fishing like a pro in no time.
Species You'll Want to Hook
False Albacore (Little Tunny): These pocket rockets are the stars of the show. Averaging 7-9 pounds, they fight like fish twice their size and can hit speeds of 45 mph. When they're running, it's non-stop action that'll leave your arms burning and your face grinning. Best time to target them is fall, but we see them throughout the warmer months.
Greater Amberjack: Locals call 'em "reef donkeys" for a reason. These bruisers hang around wrecks and reefs, and when you hook one, it's like trying to stop a freight train. They can top 100 pounds, though most we catch are in the 20-40 pound range. Spring and summer are prime time for Amberjack.
Blacktip Shark: Want to see your drag smoking? Hook into one of these acrobats. Blacktips are known for their spectacular leaps and blistering runs. They average 4-5 feet but can get much bigger. We see them most of the year, with peak action in the warmer months.
Spanish Mackerel: These toothy speedsters are a blast on light tackle. They school up and can create feeding frenzies that'll have you catching fish on every cast. Most run 2-4 pounds, but bigger ones aren't uncommon. Late spring through fall is the best time to target them.
Bluefish: The bullies of the coast, Bluefish are all attitude and sharp teeth. They'll hit just about anything and fight like crazy. Size varies widely, from 1-pound "snappers" to 15-pound "choppers". They're around most of the year but really fire up in the spring and fall.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Look, I could tell you all day about the fish we catch, but that's only part of the story. What keeps folks coming back is the pure, unscripted adventure of it all. One day you might be battling a 50-pound Amberjack, the next you're sight-casting to schools of Albies so thick they're turning the water black. And let's not forget the scenery – from the wild horses on Shackleford Banks to the historic Cape Lookout Lighthouse, there's always something to see. Plus, with only 3 anglers max, you're getting a personalized experience that the big party boats just can't match.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, enough talk – it's time to get you on the water! Whether you're a seasoned pro looking for your next trophy or a newbie wanting to see what all the fuss is about, this trip's got something for everyone. We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and the passion to make sure you have an awesome day on the water. So what are you waiting for? Those fish aren't going to catch themselves! Book your spot now and let's make some fishing memories you'll be bragging about for years to come. Trust me, once you feel that first Albie screaming off line or see a shark launching itself out of the water, you'll be hooked for life!
Learn more about the species
Blacktip Shark
Blacktips are the acrobats of the shark world, known for their spectacular leaps when hooked. These medium-sized sharks usually run 4-5 feet long, weighing 40-50 pounds. You'll find them cruising the shallows and nearshore waters, especially around sandbars and drop-offs. They're most active in summer when water temps warm up. Anglers love targeting blacktips for their hard fights and aerial displays. To hook one, use a stout rod, wire leader, and circle hook baited with fresh cut mullet or bluefish. Chum the water to get them excited. Cast your bait and let it sit – when a blacktip hits, you'll know it. Set the hook and hang on tight. These sharks make blistering runs and often go airborne. Keep constant pressure and be ready with a net or gaff. Remember, they've got teeth, so handle with care. It's catch-and-release only for sharks here, but the thrill of the fight is worth it.
Bluefish
Bluefish are the bulldogs of the surf, all muscle and attitude. These chompers usually run 2-5 pounds inshore, but bigger ones up to 20 pounds show up offshore. You'll find them wherever there's bait – beaches, inlets, and nearshore waters. They arrive in spring and stick around till fall, with summer being prime time. Anglers love bluefish for their aggressive strikes and strong fights. To catch 'em, use metal lures or live bait like mullet or menhaden. Cast into breaking fish or troll along rips and tide lines. When a blue hits, it's all teeth and tail – they'll often jump and tailwalk. Fight 'em quick and watch those choppers when unhooking. Blues are great eating when prepared right. Bleed 'em immediately and get 'em on ice. For the freshest taste, grill 'em the same day. Pro tip: Always have wire leader – their teeth will slice through mono like butter.
Greater Amberjack
Greater Amberjacks are powerhouses of the ocean, typically weighing 30-40 pounds but can top 100. You'll find these bruisers hanging around wrecks and reefs in 60-240 feet of water. They're here spring through fall, with peak action in summer. Anglers love 'em for their sheer strength – hooking one is like trying to stop a freight train. Their firm, white meat is tasty too, though be aware of size limits. To land a big AJ, use heavy tackle and drop a live blue runner or pinfish near structure. Let it swim down, then hold on tight. When they hit, it's all muscle. Set the hook hard and be ready for a battle royale. These fish don't give up easy, so patience and a strong back are key. It's a workout, but man, is it worth it when you finally get one on deck.
Little Tunny
Little Tunny, also called false albacore, are speed demons of the coast. These torpedo-shaped fish typically run 7-12 pounds and can hit 40 mph when chasing bait. Look for them busting on the surface, often near inlets or shoals. Fall is prime time when they're chasing baitfish schools. Anglers go nuts for 'em because they're lightning fast and pull like crazy for their size. To catch one, you need to move quick. When you spot a feeding frenzy, cast small metal jigs or flies that mimic their prey. Retrieve fast – these fish don't dawdle. When one hits, it's like hooking a jet ski. They make blistering runs, so make sure your drag is set right. Fight 'em quick to avoid exhaustion if you're releasing. Pro tip: Always have a rod rigged and ready. These fish pop up fast and disappear just as quick. When you see 'em busting bait, it's go time.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel are the perfect combo of speed and taste. These sleek fish usually run 2-4 pounds, with some pushing 8. You'll find them in near-shore waters, often around inlets and beaches. They show up in spring and stick around till fall, with peak action in summer. Anglers love 'em for their fast runs and delicious meat. To catch Spanish macks, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind a planer board. Or, if you spot them busting bait on the surface, cast small, flashy lures into the fray. Retrieve fast – these fish can really move. When one hits, it's all action. They make quick, darting runs and often shake their heads to throw the hook. Use light tackle for more fun, but watch out for their razor-sharp teeth when unhooking. Fresh Spanish mackerel on the grill is hard to beat, so keep a few for dinner. Just remember the size and bag limits.
About the Flying Fish II
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 55
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200
