Premium Summer Fishing on Pamlico Sound

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

North Carolina
$450 - $600 price range

Summary

You're in for a real treat fishing the Pamlico Sound this summer. Whether you choose the 4 or 8 hour trip, you'll be out on calm waters targeting local favorites like striped bass, flounder, and speckled trout. The captains at UFO Charters know these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in good hands. They'll set you up with quality gear and share their local knowledge to help you land some nice catches. It's a great way to spend a day outdoors, whether you're an experienced angler or just getting started. The peaceful setting of Eastern North Carolina's coastline adds to the experience – you might even forget you're fishing as you take in the scenery. With room for up to 4 guests, it's perfect for a small group or family outing. Just remember, your deposit locks in your spot, so plan ahead. Pack some snacks, grab your hat, and get ready for a day on the water you won't soon forget.

Pamlico Sound Catches

Two sea trout fish caught in Manns Harbor

2nd quarter hot trout season

Every cast is a life long memory.

Spotted weakfish, 24 inches, caught while fishing in NC

Pamlico Sound never disappoints on trophy fish

Just about time for a striper before the day ends

Cast Your Line in Pamlico Sound's Inshore Paradise

Ready for a laid-back day of fishing in one of North Carolina's coastal gems? UFO Charters has you covered with our 4 or 8-hour guided trips on the Pamlico Sound. Whether you're an early riser or prefer a late afternoon bite, we've got the perfect slot for you to reel in some of the area's most sought-after catches. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in for a treat as we navigate the sound's sweet spots for stripers, flounder, and specks.

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're cruising across the calm waters of Pamlico Sound, rod in hand, as the sun paints the sky. Our trips are all about soaking in that coastal vibe while trying your luck at some quality fishing. We provide top-notch gear and plenty of local know-how, so even if you're new to inshore fishing, you'll be casting like a pro in no time. And for you seasoned anglers? Get ready to swap stories and maybe learn a new trick or two from our guides who eat, sleep, and breathe these waters.

Inshore Tactics That Land Fish

When it comes to inshore fishing in the Pamlico, we've got a few go-to methods up our sleeves. We might start with some light tackle jigging around structure for those tasty flounder, or switch it up with some topwater action for stripers busting bait on the surface. Drift fishing is a favorite when the conditions are right, letting us cover more ground and find where the fish are hanging out. Our captains are always reading the water, checking the tides, and adjusting our approach to give you the best shot at a stellar day on the sound.

Top Catches This Season

Summer in the Pamlico is prime time for some of our favorite inshore species. Let's break down what you might find on the end of your line:

Summer Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage and put up a great fight for their size. We target them around sandy bottoms and drop-offs, where they love to ambush their prey. The "doormat" sized ones make for some epic photos and even better eating.

Striped Bass: Also known as rockfish, these guys are the heavy hitters of the sound. They're known for their powerful runs and can grow to impressive sizes. Summer striper fishing can be red hot, especially during low light hours when they're most active.

Speckled Trout: These spotted beauties are a favorite among light tackle enthusiasts. They're quick, acrobatic, and love to hit lures with gusto. The "gator" trout (the big ones) are the stuff of local legend.

Redfish: With their distinctive spot near the tail, redfish are a blast to catch. They pull hard and can often be sight-fished in shallow water, adding an exciting visual element to your day. When the reds are running, it's non-stop action.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the Pamlico that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the way the light dances on the water as you're reeling in your catch. Or perhaps it's the thrill of never knowing what might take your bait next. Our regulars tell us it's a mix of great fishing, laid-back atmosphere, and the chance to disconnect from the daily grind. Plus, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of bringing home a cooler full of fresh fish for dinner.

Time to Book Your Spot

Whether you're looking to spend a quick half-day on the water or want to make a full day of it, our Pamlico Sound inshore trips are the ticket to some unforgettable summer fishing. With limited spots available and the fish biting, now's the time to lock in your date. Remember, while we can't control the fish, we can guarantee a good time out on the water. So grab your hat, slather on some sunscreen, and let's go find where they're biting in the beautiful Pamlico Sound. Don't miss out on what could be your best day of fishing this summer – book your trip with UFO Charters today!

Learn more about the species

Redfish

Summer flounder, or fluke, are ambush predators that lie in wait on the bottom. They average 15-20 inches, but doormat-sized fish over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. Look for them near structure and drop-offs in 10-30 feet of water. They're masters of camouflage, blending in with sand and mud bottoms. Flounder fishing requires patience and a slow retrieve. These flatfish put up a decent fight and are prized for their sweet, flaky meat. Late spring through fall is the best time to target them. Try drifting with live bait or working a bucktail jig along the bottom. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to swallow the bait, then reel down and lift slowly. It's all about the timing with these guys.

Sea Trout

Speckled trout, or specks, are a summertime staple in the Pamlico. Most run 14-20 inches, though gator trout over 24 inches show up too. You'll find them around grass flats, oyster bars, and creek mouths. They love moving water, so fish the tide changes. Specks are known for their soft mouths, so set the hook gently. These spotted beauties put up a good scrap on light tackle. They're excellent table fare too - some of the best eating fish around. Late spring through fall is prime time. For consistent action, try a popping cork rig with a live shrimp. When the bite is on, you can't beat working a soft plastic jerk bait across the grass flats. Keep it moving with short, sharp twitches - specks can't resist it.

Striped Bass

Striped bass, or stripers, are hard-fighting fish that'll test your tackle. Adults average 20-40 inches, but trophy fish over 50 inches aren't unheard of. They hang around deeper channels and drop-offs, often near structure or bait schools. Dawn and dusk are prime feeding times. Spring and fall runs bring big numbers of fish into the sound. Stripers hit hard and make powerful runs - hang on tight! They're excellent eating too. Live bait like menhaden works well, but nothing beats the excitement of topwater lures at first light. Look for birds working the water - that's a good sign stripers are feeding underneath. My go-to trick is slow-trolling live bait along channel edges. When you hook up with a big striper, you'll know why we call 'em "line-siders."

Summer Flounder

Redfish, or red drum, are a local favorite here in the Pamlico Sound. These copper-colored fish usually run 20-30 inches long, with some old bulls reaching 40+ inches. Look for them in shallow flats and around oyster beds, especially early morning or evening when they're actively feeding. Redfish love structure, so target docks, grass lines, and drop-offs. They put up a great fight and are delicious eating too. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but you can catch them year-round. When sight-casting, use a weedless gold spoon or soft plastic jerk bait - redfish can't resist 'em. Keep an eye out for their distinctive tail sticking up out of the water as they root around for crabs and shrimp. Landing one of these copper beauties is always a highlight of any trip out on the sound.

About the UFO Charters

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Summer on the Pamlico Sound means prime fishing time. Hop aboard for a relaxing half or full day out on Eastern North Carolina's coastal waters. Our seasoned captains know just where to find the best spots for striped bass, flounder, and speckled trout. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, you'll enjoy quality gear and expert guidance as you cast your line into the sound's calm waters. From the peaceful early morning hours to the golden late afternoon light, it's a chance to slow down and connect with nature. Breathe in the salty air, take in the scenic coastline views, and feel the gentle rocking of the boat. With any luck, you'll feel a few good tugs on your line and bring home some fresh catches for dinner. These laid-back trips are perfect for small groups wanting to spend time outdoors together while learning new skills. It's fishing at its most enjoyable - no rush, no pressure, just good times on the water with friendly folks who know these waters like the back of their hand.

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