World-Class Inshore Fishing in Hatteras, NC

Published Date: October 11, 2025
Fishing

Hatteras
$350 - $1,050 price range

Summary

Hop aboard with Captain Mike Hauck for a full day of fishing in the rich waters around Hatteras. This 8-hour trip gives you plenty of time to target a variety of inshore species. We'll be after redfish, sheepshead, cobia, flounder, and Spanish mackerel, adjusting our tactics as we move between different fishing spots. Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, Captain Mike offers hands-on guidance to help you land some quality catches. It's a great option for families, groups of friends, or solo fishermen looking to maximize their time on the water. As we fish, you'll also get to soak in the beautiful coastal scenery of North Carolina's Outer Banks. With room for up to 4 guests, there's space to bring along your fishing buddies or the whole family for a day of reeling in fish and making memories on the water.

World-Class Inshore Fishing in Hatteras, NC

Rods Bent, Fish On!

Reeling in sheepheads off the Hatteras coast

A great fishing trip with 2 people in Hatteras, catching a 28-inch fish

Calm mornings, steady lines, coastal memories made

Inshore fishing with aspiring pro kids

North Carolina waters delivering solid catches

Full Day Fishing Frenzy in Hatteras

Get ready to spend a full day on the water with Captain Mike Hauck, chasing some of Hatteras's most exciting inshore species. This 8-hour trip is perfect for anglers who want to maximize their time fishing and really dial in on multiple targets. We'll be going after Redfish, Sheepshead, Cobia, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel - talk about variety! Whether you're bringing the whole family or you're a dedicated angler looking to hone your skills, this full-day adventure offers the perfect mix of action-packed fishing and laid-back coastal vibes.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll kick things off early, meeting at the dock as the sun's coming up. Captain Mike knows these waters like the back of his hand, so we'll waste no time getting to the prime spots. Depending on what's biting, we might start by drifting around structure for Sheepshead, then switch gears to sight-casting for Redfish in the shallows. As the day heats up, we could run to some nearshore reefs to try our luck with Cobia or troll for Spanish Mackerel. The beauty of a full day is we've got time to try different techniques and locations to put you on the fish. Don't worry if you're new to this - the Captain's always happy to show you the ropes and help you land that trophy catch.

Techniques & Gear Rundown

On this trip, we'll be using a mix of light and medium tackle, perfect for the inshore species we're after. For Sheepshead, we'll likely use light spinning gear with small hooks and pieces of crab or shrimp. When we're after Redfish, we might switch to baitcasters and throw soft plastics or live bait under a popping cork. For Spanish Mackerel, get ready for some fast-paced trolling action with Clark spoons or small lures. The Captain provides all the gear, but if you've got a favorite rod you want to bring, feel free. Just remember to pack some snacks, drinks, and sunscreen - 8 hours on the water can fly by when the fishing's hot!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters are a blast to catch and even better to eat. They usually show up in Hatteras waters from spring through fall, with peak action in the summer months. Spanish Mackerel are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. We typically find them in schools, so when you catch one, there's a good chance more are nearby. They average 2-4 pounds, but bigger ones aren't uncommon.

Sheepshead: Don't let their goofy-looking teeth fool you - these striped battlers are some of the craftiest fish in the sea. They love to hang around structure like pilings, jetties, and reefs. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so feeling their bite takes some practice. But once you hook one, get ready for a stubborn fight. They're around all year, but the fishing really heats up in late spring and summer. A good-sized Sheepshead here runs 3-5 pounds, with some topping 10 pounds.

Sea Trout: Also known as Speckled Trout, these spotted beauties are a favorite among light tackle anglers. They've got soft mouths, so finesse is key when fighting them. Sea Trout love to ambush bait in grass flats and around oyster beds. The best action is usually in the cooler months, from fall through spring. Most fish run 1-3 pounds, but gator trout over 5 pounds are always a possibility.

Redfish: Also called Red Drum, these copper-colored brutes are the pride of Hatteras inshore fishing. They can be found year-round, but fall is prime time when big schools of bull reds show up. Sight-casting to tailing redfish in shallow water is about as exciting as it gets. Slot-sized fish (18-27 inches) are great for the table, while the big bulls can top 40 pounds and will test your drag system.

Cobia: These brown bombers are the heavyweights of our inshore waters. They typically show up in late spring and stick around through summer. Cobia are known for their powerful runs and tendency to circle the boat, making for some epic battles. They average 20-40 pounds, but 60+ pounders aren't unheard of. Sight-casting to cruising cobia is a rush, and they're also one of the best-eating fish in the ocean.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Hatteras isn't just another fishing spot - it's a angler's paradise. The mix of inshore waters, nearshore reefs, and the nearby Gulf Stream creates a perfect storm for year-round fishing action. One day you might be sight-casting to Redfish in skinny water, the next you're battling a bruiser Cobia on a nearshore wreck. And let's not forget the seafood - nothing beats grilling up your catch after a long day on the water. But what really sets Hatteras apart is the laid-back vibe and the local knowledge. Captains like Mike have been fishing these waters for generations, and they know how to put you on the fish no matter the conditions.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best inshore fishing the East Coast has to offer, this full-day trip with Captain Mike is just the ticket. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to tangle with some trophy fish or a family wanting to make some lasting memories, you'll find what you're after in Hatteras. With a limit of 4 guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and time to bend the rod. Just remember, the best dates book up fast, especially during peak seasons. So don't wait - grab your spot now and get ready for a day of non-stop fishing action in one of North Carolina's top fishing destinations. Trust me, after a day out here, you'll be planning your next trip before you even hit the dock!

Learn more about the species

Cobia

Cobia are odd-looking fish, often mistaken for sharks with their flat heads and dark coloration. They average 20-40 pounds but can top 100. You'll find them around buoys, wrecks, and other structure, often shadowing big rays or turtles. Late spring through summer is prime time as they migrate up the coast. Anglers love cobia for their hard fights and excellent eating quality. To catch them, sight-fishing is popular - look for them cruising just under the surface. Pitch a live eel or large jig in front of them. One local trick is to always have a heavy rod rigged and ready - when you spot a cobia, you often only get one shot before they spook. Make that cast count and hold on tight when they hit!

Redfish

Redfish, also called red drum, are copper-colored with a signature black spot near the tail. Most run 3-8 pounds inshore, but big bulls over 40 pounds cruise the surf. You'll find them tailing in shallow grass flats or hanging around oyster bars and docks. Fall is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love redfish for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. To catch them, try gold spoons, soft plastics, or live bait like mullet or crab. One local trick is to look for "nervous water" - that slight ripple often means redfish are feeding just under the surface. Cast beyond the disturbance and work your lure through it. When a red hits, hang on tight - these fish pull like freight trains!

Sea Trout

Sea trout, also called speckled trout, typically run 1-3 pounds but can get up to 5-6 pounds. You'll find them in shallow grass flats, around oyster bars, and near creek mouths. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially on moving tides. Anglers love sea trout for their aggressive strikes and delicate white meat. Spring and fall are prime seasons as water temps change. To catch them, try live shrimp under a popping cork or soft plastic jigs worked slowly along the bottom. One local trick is to look for slicks on the water - that often means trout are feeding nearby. Cast your lure right to the edge of the slick and work it back slowly. When you feel that thump, set the hook and enjoy the fight!

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are odd-looking fish with black and white stripes and human-like teeth. Most run 2-5 pounds, but big ones can hit 10-15 pounds. You'll find them around structure like docks, pilings, and oyster beds. Spring and fall are peak seasons as water temps change. Anglers enjoy the challenge of hooking these bait-stealers - they're known for their light bites and ability to strip hooks clean. The meat is excellent too, with a sweet flavor similar to sea bass. To catch sheepshead, use small hooks with fiddler crabs or oysters for bait. My favorite local trick is to scrape barnacles off pilings to chum them up. Then drop your bait right in the mix. Just set the hook fast when you feel that telltale tap!

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are fast, streamlined fish that typically run 1-2 feet long and 2-4 pounds. You'll find them in schools near the surface, often around structure like reefs or wrecks. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Anglers love targeting Spanish Mackerel for their speedy runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. They're also great eating fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. To catch 'em, try trolling small spoons or jigs behind the boat. A local trick is to look for diving birds - that usually means Spanish Mackerel are feeding on bait fish below. Cast into the frenzy with a Got-Cha plug or similar lure and hold on tight! These fish hit hard and fast, so be ready for some exciting action.

About the Yankee Sport Fishing

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Captain Mike Hauck's full-day fishing trip in Hatteras offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse inshore waters of North Carolina. You'll spend 8 hours on the boat, giving you plenty of time to target a variety of species like Redfish, Sheepshead, Cobia, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel. With room for up to 4 guests, it's perfect for small groups or families looking to enjoy a day on the water together. Captain Mike provides hands-on instruction, making this trip suitable for anglers of all skill levels. As you cruise around different fishing spots, you'll also get to take in the beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you're after a relaxing day of fishing or hoping to land some quality catches, this full-day adventure has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to experience the best of Hatteras' inshore fishing with an experienced local guide.

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