Premier 10-Hour Offshore Fishing in Topsail NC

10-Hour Offshore Kayak Fishing Adventure at Frying Pan Tower

Trip Overview

Get ready for the ultimate kayak fishing experience off the coast of Topsail, NC! This 10-hour private charter takes you straight to the legendary Frying Pan Tower, a former light station turned B&B that's now a kayak angler's paradise. We're talking big-game fishing in the open ocean, folks. You'll be dropping lines in the shadow of this unique structure, with the chance to hook into some serious pelagics while also getting in on the bottom-fishing action. The Frying Pan Shoals offer a smorgasbord of fishing environments – from rocky shallows to mysterious shipwrecks and deep-water ledges. It's like fishing in three spots at once! Due to the long boat ride and to keep things comfy, we limit this trip to just two kayaks. Bring your own yak and gear, and let's get after those fish!

What to Expect on the Water

This ain't your average inshore paddle, folks. We're heading 30 miles offshore on the mothership, so come prepared for a full day on the big blue. Once we reach the tower, you'll launch your kayak and have the freedom to explore this fisherman's playground. The beauty of this setup? You can work two techniques at once – maybe troll a line for pelagics while dropping bait to the bottom. It's like playing chess and checkers simultaneously, but way more fun. The Frying Pan Shoals are a fish magnet, creating an underwater oasis that attracts everything from kings to grouper. Expect a workout – these offshore bruisers don't come easy, but man, is it worth it when you feel that first run!

Techniques and Gear

For this offshore bonanza, we're pulling out all the stops. You'll want to bring a versatile kayak setup that can handle both trolling and bottom fishing. Think medium-heavy rods paired with reels that can hold plenty of line – those pelagics might take you for a sleigh ride. For trolling, we often use diving plugs or live bait rigs to entice the kings and mahi. When it comes to bottom fishing, heavy jigs or cut bait on circle hooks are the ticket for grouper and other bottom-dwellers. Don't forget your fish finder if you've got one – it'll help you locate those productive underwater structures. And speaking of structure, the Frying Pan Tower itself acts like the world's biggest fish attractor, so working your baits close to the legs can pay off big time. Remember, we're in the ocean here, so safety gear is a must – PFDs, VHF radio, and plenty of water to stay hydrated under that Carolina sun.

Hunter Highlights

"Even though the weather changed on us Capt Phillip still managed to put us on some fish. We had a great trip and are looking forward to booking him again in the future" - Johnny "Even though weather kept us from our original plan of going further offshore capt Phillip still put us on fish. He was courteous and very accommodating. We will definitely use him again in the future." - Johnny

Species You'll Want to Hook

King Mackerel: These speedsters are the prize of many an offshore angler. Kings can top 50 pounds and are known for their blistering runs that'll have your drag singing. They love to chase bait near the surface, so trolling is often the way to go. Summer and early fall are prime time for kings around the Frying Pan Tower. When you hook one, hold on tight – their first run is legendary!

Mahi Mahi (Common Dolphinfish): With their acrobatic leaps and dazzling colors, mahi are a favorite target for good reason. These fish are opportunistic feeders and often hang around floating debris or structures like the tower. They're fast-growing and can reach over 30 pounds in our waters. Mahi fishing heats up in late spring and summer, and there's nothing quite like watching a school of these neon beauties chasing your bait.

Hogfish: These odd-looking but delicious bottom-dwellers are a real treat to catch. With their pig-like snouts and vibrant red coloration, hogfish are a unique target that requires finesse. They're typically found around rocky areas and reefs, making the Frying Pan Shoals perfect hogfish habitat. Light tackle and small baits are the way to go, and they're available year-round with peak season in the warmer months.

African Pompano: Don't let the name fool you – these fish are right at home in North Carolina waters. Known for their deep, silvery bodies and long, trailing fins, African Pompano are a hard-fighting species that can reach over 50 pounds. They often hang around structures like the tower and nearby wrecks. Late summer and fall are great times to target these powerful fish, and they put up a fight that'll test your kayak fishing skills.

Gag Grouper: These bruisers of the bottom are a staple of offshore fishing in our area. Gags love structure, so the rocky areas and ledges around the Frying Pan Shoals are prime real estate for them. They can grow to over 50 pounds and are known for their powerful initial run – often trying to duck back into their rocky lairs. Fishing for gags is open in the warmer months, with fall being a particularly good time as they move to shallower waters. Hooking a big gag from a kayak is an experience you won't soon forget!

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, let's wrap this up. This 10-hour offshore adventure to the Frying Pan Tower is the real deal – the kind of trip that separates the weekend warriors from the die-hard kayak anglers. You're looking at a chance to tangle with some serious offshore gamefish, all while fishing from your yak in one of the most unique spots on the East Coast. From the adrenaline rush of hooking a king mackerel to the satisfaction of pulling up a chunky grouper, this trip offers a little bit of everything. And with only two spots available, you know you're in for a personalized experience with plenty of elbow room to work those fish. So what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, secure your spot, and get ready for a kayak fishing adventure that'll have you telling stories for years to come. The fish are out there – let's go get 'em!