%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F2320%2Fimages%2Fmatunahoo.png&w=1200&q=100)
Premier Nearshore Fishing NC | MaTunaHoo Sportfishing
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- $650 - $2,200 price range
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2Fd1116fc9-53ec-423e-9888-a1b1e25855c0%2Fratecard%2Fscreenshot2022-09-20120803.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Reeling in NC's Finest
Adventure awaits on the water
Fishing fun for everyone
Wilmington waters, endless possibilities
Sunshine, sea, and fishing dreams
Trophy sized catch in North Carolina.
A big and heavy giant caught in NC!
Look at the length of that beauty!
A foot for comparison on how big this fish is.
Catch the thrill of the open sea
Reeling in memories to last a lifetime
Adventure awaits on the water
Fishing fun for everyone
Wilmington waters, endless possibilities
Sunshine, sea, and fishing dreams
Trophy sized catch in North Carolina.
A big and heavy giant caught in NC!
Look at the length of that beauty!
A foot for comparison on how big this fish is.
Catch the thrill of the open sea
Reeling in memories to last a lifetime
Adventure awaits on the water
Fishing fun for everyone
Wilmington waters, endless possibilities
Sunshine, sea, and fishing dreams
Nearshore Fishing NC: Offshore Action, Inshore Comfort
Ready for some serious rod-bending action without the long haul offshore? Our Nearshore Fishing NC trip with MaTunaHoo Sportfishing is the sweet spot between inshore calm and deep-sea thrills. We're talking about putting you on fish that'll make your arms ache and your camera roll pop, all within sight of the beautiful North Carolina coastline. Whether you're chasing hard-fighting Amberjack or hoping to land your first Mahi Mahi, this trip's got you covered. With room for up to 4 anglers, it's the perfect setup for a day of friendly competition and shared excitement on the water.
What to Expect on the Water
Picture this: You're cruising out past the breakers, the salt spray on your face, and the anticipation building. That's where our nearshore adventure begins. We've got the local knowledge to put you right where the fish are biting. You might start your day battling a bruiser Amberjack, then switch gears to finesse some Grouper out of their rocky hideouts. As the day heats up, we'll be on the lookout for the telltale signs of Mahi Mahi on the hunt. This isn't your average day of fishing - it's a full-on aquatic buffet where you never know what's going to hit your line next. And the best part? We've got the time to really work an area, change tactics, and make sure you're getting the most out of every cast.
Rigs and Reels
On our nearshore trips, versatility is the name of the game. We'll be rigged up and ready for anything from bottom fishing for Grouper to run-and-gun tactics for pelagics like Wahoo and Tuna. You might find yourself dropping live bait for those bigger bottom-dwellers one minute, then switching to trolling with spreader bars the next as we chase down a school of Bonito. We provide all the gear you'll need, from heavy-duty conventional reels for the bruisers to lighter spinning setups for more finesse work. And don't worry if you're new to some of these techniques - our crew's always happy to show you the ropes and help you land that fish of a lifetime.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Atlantic Sailfish: These acrobatic beauties are the showstoppers of our nearshore waters. Known for their stunning aerial displays, Sailfish can turn a calm day of fishing into an adrenaline-pumping spectacle in seconds. They typically show up in our waters from late spring through fall, with peak season in the summer months. Anglers love targeting Sails not just for the fight, but for the breathtaking photo ops before release.
Atlantic Bonito: Don't let their size fool you - these compact powerhouses punch well above their weight class. Bonito are fast, aggressive, and school in large numbers, making for non-stop action when you find them. They're most abundant in our waters during the spring and fall migrations. Pound for pound, they're some of the hardest fighting fish you'll encounter, and they make for excellent eating if you decide to keep a few for the grill.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as Dorado or Dolphinfish, these neon-colored speedsters are a favorite among our anglers. Mahi are known for their acrobatic fights and their willingness to hit just about any lure or bait you throw their way. We start seeing good numbers of Mahi in late spring, with the action really heating up through the summer months. They're not just fun to catch - they're also one of the best-eating fish in the ocean, making them a perfect catch-and-keep target.
Wahoo: If you're looking for raw speed and power, Wahoo is your fish. These streamlined predators are like the cheetahs of the sea, capable of incredible bursts of speed that will have your reel screaming. We typically target Wahoo from late summer through fall, often by high-speed trolling. Landing a Wahoo is a true accomplishment for any angler, and their firm, white meat is prized for its delicate flavor.
Bigeye Tuna: The heavyweight champion of our nearshore waters, Bigeye Tuna are the fish that fishing dreams are made of. These powerful fish can weigh well over 100 pounds and put up a fight that can last for hours. We usually see Bigeye moving through our waters in the late summer and fall. Hooking into one of these giants is an experience you'll never forget, and if you're lucky enough to land one, you'll be in for some of the best sushi-grade tuna you've ever tasted.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Our nearshore trips hit that sweet spot for so many reasons. You're not stuck in the bay, but you're also not committing to a full day offshore. It's the Goldilocks zone of fishing - just right. The variety of species we can target means every trip is different. One day you might be filling the box with tasty bottom fish, the next you could be going toe-to-fin with a acrobatic Sailfish. And let's be real, there's something special about being able to see the shoreline while you're battling a fish that's giving your arms the workout of a lifetime. Plus, with a max of 4 guests, you're getting a more personalized experience. Our repeat customers tell us it's like fishing with old friends - if those old friends happened to know exactly where to find the big ones!
Time to Book Your Spot
Look, the fish are out there waiting, and our calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some new species to your list or a newbie hoping to bend a rod on something bigger than a bass, our Nearshore Fishing NC trip is your ticket to an awesome day on the water. We provide all the gear, the know-how, and the hot spots - all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a cooler for your catch. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call, lock in your date, and get ready for a fishing trip that'll have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you feel that first big hit and hear that reel singing, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the water!
Learn more about the species
Atlantic Bonito
Atlantic bonito are quick little fighters, clocking speeds up to 40 mph. They average 7-8 pounds but can reach 12. Look for them in coastal waters, often in big schools chasing bait on the surface. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Bonito put up a scrappy fight on light tackle, making them a fun catch. They're not prized for eating around here, but make great bait for bigger game. To find them, watch for birds working the water - that's usually a good sign. Trolling fast with small lures or live bait like mackerel works well. If it's windy, try a metal jig instead of plastic. These guys will hit just about anything when they're feeding.
Atlantic Sailfish
Atlantic sailfish are the speed demons of the ocean, known to reach up to 68 mph. These beauties average 7.5 feet long and 50 pounds, with a distinctive sail-like dorsal fin. You'll find them in warm coastal waters, often hunting in groups. They're a blast to catch - leaping and diving during the fight. Best time to target them is winter in the Keys or year-round in South Florida's "Sailfish Alley." When you hook one, be ready for an acrobatic show. They'll try to shake the hook right away, so keep a firm grip. Let them run before you start reeling. Pink and white tube flies or poppers work well. Remember, patience is key with these guys.
Bigeye Tuna
Bigeye tuna are hefty fighters, growing up to 400 pounds. They're deep divers, often found below 250 meters in warm offshore waters. Late spring through summer is peak season here. Anglers prize them for their size, fight, and high-quality meat. They've got huge eyes that help them hunt in low light, so early morning or dusk are prime times. Trolling with large lures works well - try dark colors in low light conditions. A local tip: use spreader bars on short riggers to attract them. When you hook up, be ready for a long, tough battle. These guys can dive deep and pull hard. Bigeye meat is prized in sushi markets, so proper handling is key if you're keeping one.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi mahi, also called dorado, are some of the most colorful fish you'll see. They grow fast, averaging 15-29 pounds. You'll find them near floating debris or weedlines in warm offshore waters. Summer's the best time to target them here. Mahi are known for their acrobatic fights and delicious meat. They're not picky eaters, so various lures and live baits work well. A local tip: when you hook one, keep it in the water. The rest of the school might stick around, giving you a shot at more. Mahi change colors rapidly when excited, so get ready for a light show when you bring one in. They're excellent eating too - firm, white meat with a mild flavor.
Wahoo Fish
Wahoo are speed demons, hitting 60 mph in short bursts. They usually run 3-5 feet long but can reach over 8 feet and 180 pounds. You'll find them in warm offshore waters, often near structure or underwater ledges. Late summer through fall is prime wahoo season here. Anglers love 'em for their blistering runs and tasty meat. High-speed trolling at 12-15 knots is the go-to method. Use wire leaders - their teeth will slice through mono. Lures that mimic flying fish or squid work well. Here's a local trick: if you see one follow but not bite, quickly speed up then slow down. That sudden change often triggers a strike. When you hook up, hang on tight - wahoo are known for sudden, powerful runs.
About the MaTunaHoo
%2F%2Fusers%2Fd1116fc9-53ec-423e-9888-a1b1e25855c0%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fmtunahooboat.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 200
