Meet Captain Phillip Loughlin

Captain Phillip Loughlin is the heart and soul of Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, bringing more than 40 years of local angling experience to every coastal North Carolina fishing charter. His deep connection to the waters surrounding Hampstead and Topsail Beach allows him to track seasonal fish movements with incredible accuracy. Over the decades, Captain Phillip has mastered the subtle nuances of these coastal environments, ensuring that his guests spend less time searching for fish and more time enjoying the action. His welcoming approach and wealth of knowledge make him a trusted guide for families, casual anglers, and seasoned sportspeople alike.

Specializing in a versatile range of techniques, Captain Phillip is equally at home navigating shallow inshore creeks as he is heading into the deep blue offshore waters. He understands the unique behaviors of native target species, from the presentation needed to land a cautious Speckled Trout, Flounder, or Red Drum to the heavy-duty strategies required for fighting hard-pulling King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and Cobia. Beyond traditional sportfishing, he is a dedicated advocate for the local kayak fishing community. By creating a specialized "mothership" transport service, he helps self-sufficient kayak anglers safely reach remote, untouched boundaries that would otherwise be far too distant to reach by paddle alone.

For Captain Phillip, a great day on the water is built on a foundation of safety, education, and genuine camaraderie. He takes pride in sharing his lifelong passion for the local marine ecosystem, happily sharing tips on effective rod control, bait selection, and regional tactics with anyone eager to learn. Guests frequently highlight his calm demeanor and meticulous preparation as the reasons they feel completely at ease under his care. When you step aboard, you are partnering with an expert who is entirely focused on your safety, comfort, and success on the North Carolina waterways.

The Boat & Equipment

Your coastal angling adventure takes place aboard Captain Phillip’s immaculate 2018 23-foot Parker center console. Built for stability and a smooth ride, this premium fishing platform is powered by a reliable 300 HP Yamaha outboard engine, allowing a swift cruising speed of 35 knots to maximize your actual time lines-in. The vessel is fully outfitted with top-tier marine electronics, including high-definition GPS, advanced radar, and sensitive fishfinder systems to pinpoint active schools with complete safety. Up to four anglers can comfortably fish the spacious deck, which comes fully stocked with premium rods, reels, specialized tackle, an onboard livewell for fresh bait, and dedicated coolers to keep your refreshments cold throughout the day.