Explore the waters off Hampstead North Carolina for a premier sportfishing experience with Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures. Explore inshore, nearshore, or offshore and target many different species while enjoying the beautiful natural sights this area offers. Captain Phillip Loughlin has fished these waters for over 40 years, and will be your host to deliver a great fishing experience for everyone in your group. Charter fishing trips run on Captain Phillip's 2018, 23’ Parker boat that can accommodate up to 4 anglers. Powered by a 300 HPowered P Yamaha engine he'll get you to the fishing grounds quickly, with a cruising speed of 35 knots, and with top quality GPS, radar, and fishfinder systems he'll get you to the right spot with complete safety. There’s an onboard live well you can use to store your bait, and coolers for drinks throughout the trip. All the fishing gear will be waiting for you when you arrive on the boat. Captain Phillip provides you with rods, reels, tackle, as well as live bait and lures. You will want to make sure you have your NC Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL), as well as a cooler with some drinks and snacks for lunch in case you get hungry. Sun screen, a hat, and of course your camera will complete the outfit. Aside from traditional charter fishing, Captain Phillip also offers customizable and flexible mothership kayak fishing trips. He can take you to those places you always wanted to fish which are just too far to paddle to. This is a unique service where you bring your own kayak and fishing gear, board the mothership, and let the crew take you where you want to go. As kayak trips are not guided, you need to be an experienced kayak angler, able to handle your boat and your gear in open-water conditions. These kayak trips can accommodate up to 3 anglers. The fish targeted on this charter vary by season, and you can pick a trip that fits your fishing style and technique. If you’re up for some shallow-water action, species such as Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Red &amp; Black Drum, Flounder, Speckled Trout and others are available. For those who prefer the deep blue, you can go after King and Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, even a Sailfish if you come across one. Book your next adventure with Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures and spend a day full of fishing excitement surrounded by the beauty of the North Carolina coast and waterways.

EPSG:4269

We enjoyed a relaxed afternoon on the water yesterday for a quick, three-hour family trip focused on the kids. The nearshore action kept the young anglers constantly engaged as we worked our way through plenty of active Bluefish to find our primary targets. By the end of the trip, the kids did a fantastic job filling the cooler with a dinner's worth of fresh Spanish Mackerel.

While we are keeping a close eye on the local marine forecast this week, the conditions are shaping up nicely. The fish are biting, the coastal waters are productive, and it is a perfect time to get out on the water.

Trip Highlights:

Duration: 3-Hour Afternoon Family Charter

Primary Catches: Spanish Mackerel & Bluefish

Current Strategy: Trolling nearshore structural edges and watching the weather windows.

We have open dates available for both inshore and nearshore trips. Gather the family, pack a cooler, and join us on the water for a memorable day of coastal North Carolina fishing!

Fresh caught Spanish mackerel displayed on fishing boat dock in Hampstead NC

Nearshore Spanish Mackerel & Bluefish Update

Had a great booking with Johnny and Kris. The plan was to get out to the 20 mile range as the mahi have just shown up, but the seas were a little too much so we fell back to Plan B and decided to work on the kings for a bit. 
The fish took a minute, but once we found them we had a pretty good run, especially once everyone got the hang of bringing them in on live bait rigs (it takes finesse). A few slipped the hooks, but we ended up with three and a half fish (gotta pay the tax man). 
Once the king bite slowed, we ran closer to shore to troll up some Spanish and blues... plus a jumbo lizard fish. These folks will be eating well!
Big fun, and I'm ready to do it some more! Come on out!

Big fun and plenty of fish on a 3/4 day charter

Ali and his crew booked an 8-hour day for Memorial Day. The weather was looking a little unsettled for the Monday, but Sunday was looking amazing with light winds and slight seas. Fortunately, we all had some flexibility and rescheduled the trip to take advantage of a gorgeous day on the ocean. 
The weather forecast was dead-on, and we rolled out into a gentle, 1-to-2 foot seas which allowed us to run at a comfortable speed out to one of my spots about 28 miles offshore. I've been itching to try this spot this season, but the weather hasn't been too accommodating. The water temps are still in the low-mid 70s, which is perfect for kings, cobia, and other early season fish. I figured it's still a little cool for dolphin (mahi), but you never know!
There weren't many signs of life when we arrived on the site. I didn't see birds or baitfish, and the sonar wasn't showing much underneath us either. Nevertheless, I got some cigar minnows out on the light lines and settled in to start working the area. 
Ali and his crew are experienced pier fishermen, but were eager to extend their experience to offshore trolling. Like most of my offshore customers, they were really focused on the possibility of mahi, so I tried to keep their expectations realistic. I guess Mother Nature thought it would be funny to prove me wrong, and the first solid strike turned out to be a nice, slinger dolphin! 
Ben was first up, but after a couple of minutes, the fish threw the hook. Just as it did, though, another line went off. Ali grabbed this one, and after a sensational battle, the mahi came aboard and into the ice. Dolphin move in schools and feed together, and no more had I put the baits back out, we picked up a third fish. Seth took this one, and it was a tough fight. I'm guessing this was a hefty, male dolphin by the way it fought. Unfortunately, after plenty of sweat equity, the hooks came out and the fish took off. 
Things slowed down after that. The school must have moved off and I could not pick them up again. I kept us in the general area, but eventually spread out to the series of ledges hoping for a king, cobia, or even an amberjack. 
As I was watching some boats bottom fishing nearby, the downrigger rod started screaming. This had to be a king mackerel! Ali was first to the rod and I could tell when he lifted it up that he was in for a fight. However, the fish wasn't acting like a king anymore. It was thrashing some, but Ali said it felt like he was pulling dead weight. I was afraid we'd traded the king for a shark, but told him to keep at it until we got it in. 
After some time, Ali reeling and me moving the boat to close the circle, the fish finally came to the surface... sideways. The hooks had slipped out of the king's mouth and dug into his belly. I held my breath as Ali pulled him closer, hoping the hook would hold until I could get a gaff into him. Thankfully, it did!
After that, things really slowed down. Most of the boats that had been in the area were leaving by this point, but I wanted to keep at it. I won't deny, I was hoping to get some more mahi action. That didn't happen though. After we'd covered several miles of ocean without so much as a good strike, I asked if the guys wanted to relocate... possibly moving close to the beach to put some meatfish in the cooler. The Spanish mackerel are running hard, and I figured this would be a nice addition to a mahi and a king. 
They agreed and we made a long, fairly smooth run back to the beach. The guys wanted to try jigging for the Spanish, so I set them up near the inlet. There were fish everywhere, but they did not seem to be interested in the jigs.  Ali even tried a Rapala, but it was no go. Finally, I offered to set out the Clark spoons and do some trolling. 
By the time the lines were out, I was deeper than I wanted to be, but before I could turn the boat one of the rods went over hard. It looked a lot stronger than a Spanish, and when Ben got it in closer, I could see it was an Atlantic bonito. I was surprised to see that so late in the season.. and then surprised again when Ali pulled in another one. 
I made a few circles hoping for more, but the school must have moved off. There was no time to think about it, though, because suddenly we were into the Spanish. I was only running three lines, and two of them were constantly hooked up. 
After boating an even dozen Spanish, Ali said they had enough and were ready to go. That's always a good sign! 
Overall, we had a heck of a day and the season is just getting cranked up!


Three Spanish Mackerel, a large catch in Hampstead

Offshore mixed bag

I think one of my favorite things about running charters is getting the kids out on the water. They're always good for a surprise, whether it's handling rough seas or finding the fun in silly things... making up a fish dance, for example, or spotting things that some of us adults might take for granted. They're always curious and always learning. This is why I created our three-hour "Kids Trip" charters. 
This past Sunday, we had two kids' trips, back-to-back. It made for a long day, but it was a very good one! 
Our morning group was a rescheduled Father's Day gift, due to an iffy weather report on Father's Day. The wind and seas were about as nice as you could ask for, with just enough breeze to keep it from getting too hot, but not enough to chop up the gentle swell. These guys weren't really interested in keeping fish to eat. They just wanted to get out and catch some fish, spend time on the water, and have a fun morning. This is just what we did! 
I dropped the Clark spoons back as soon as we cleared the inlet, trolling south in 20-30 feet of water. With water temps near the mid-80s, I knew the fishing wouldn't be fast and furious, but there were plenty of hungry Spanish mackerel around to keep it from getting too boring. 13 year-old Mason did the bulk of the fishing, while his 5 year-old brother, Carson, explored the boat, ate lots of Sour Patch Kids, and basically had a blast. He'd occasionally ask to reel in a fish and was generally obliged. I think Dad had a great time just watching his boys do their thing, and he did a great job keeping them engaged during the lulls. As we wrapped up the trip, the catch was well over 20 Spanish mackerel, with a couple of blues and lizard fish for good measure. 
Our second trip of the day, with Chris, his the two youngsters, Stella and Solomon , and their granddad was just as much fun. The afternoon wind had kicked up as it usually does this time of year, so the seas were a bit choppy, but I don't think they even noticed once we got the lines in the water. 
There was some good-natured sibling rivalry as each child claimed a rod. Dad and grandpa played supporting roles, cheering the kids on with each fish. I'm afraid I lost track of the scoreboard, but they both did a pretty good job... especially considering how bumpy the ocean was getting. Stella definitely got the big fish of the day with a chunky Spanish, but Solomon made up for size with numbers. By the time we brought in the lines to come in, they had 15 Spanish on ice with a couple of shorts that we had to throw back, several bluefish (also released), and a couple of bonus lizard fish. 
I'd seen a lot of menhaden pods around, so I dropped a cedar plug way back, just as a Hail, Mary, in case a cobia or king was lurking around all that bait. Chris claimed that rod for himself. Sadly, that one didn't score for us on this trip, but I think just knowing it was out there added to the overall excitement of the day. 
I will always love running way offshore to chase big game fish, but it's hard to beat a day right off the beach with excited kids hauling in the Spanish mackerel. It's a reminder not to take the simpler times for granted. I know, for me, it will never get old!


One Spanish Mackerel fish caught while fishing in Hampstead

Catch of the day: Massive Spanish Mackerel in North Carolina

Kids' Fun Fishing

Atlantic Bonito

Spring fishing kicks off with arrival of Atlantic bonito

We've waited all winter, patiently watching the ocean temperatures creep back up into the 60s, and here it is! Our nearshore season has officially begun with the arrival of the Atlantic bonito... one of the tastiest fish you'll ever catch in our nearshore waters. Most folks, including our crew, think these guys compare with tuna for flavor. They're perfect for sashimi, poke, or sushi rolls.
They're only here in numbers for a month or so, which means if you want to get into them, now's the time! Fortunately, they're right off the beach and accessible on all of our short trips. They're also cooperative with multiple methods, so we can troll for them or stop and throw jigs when they're on top for some serious, light-tackle action.
The other great thing about the arrival of these fish is that it means the others are coming soon. As the water continues to warm past the mid-60s, the Spanish and king mackerel will be showing up close to shore, while our longer, offshore trips will target the big kings and mahi-mahi.
We would love to have you aboard! Come catch some fish and make some memories!

Three fishing rods and tackle by the Hampstead pond

Spanish Mackerel

A Productive Day on the Gulf Stream – Spring Fishing Heats Up!

Well, the weather, work, and finding a crew all came together on Sunday, so my brother and I made the Gulf Stream run (2 1/2 hrs each way - appx 65 miles). It's about time too, since my freezer is almost empty of fish. 
Couldn't have asked for a prettier day! Ran out on about a 1' sea. It picked up a little in some unsettled breezes around the break, but still not much more than 2' with a little cross chop. Water temps at the break were around 73. Didn't see a lot of life on the surface except a couple of turtles. 
Not a gangbusters day (they can't always be wide open), but ended the day with three chunky blackfins in the boat, broke off one BIG strike on an Islander in the prop wash, but didn't get a look to see what it was. 
At any rate, it was awful nice to be back on the water after a long, cold winter, and we'll be eating well around here for a while! 
It won't be long before we're getting out there a lot more, as the Atlantic Bonito (the ones that are good to eat!) should be showing up nearshore in a month or so. If you're thinking about warmer weather and fishing, now's a great time to think about booking a trip. While the weather is the determining factor, I expect we'll be running those bonito trips starting in April. The Spanish and kings will be in right behind them, along with offshore action on mahi. 
Drop us a line!

Atlantic Bonito Season is Almost Here – Don’t Miss the Action!

Just a couple of weeks and we'll see our near coastal waters tapping the mid -60s! What does that mean? Atlantic bonito will be showing up! It may be the best tasting nearshore fish we get around here, comparable to sushi-grade tuna. They're a blast to catch too. 
So don't miss out! They're usually here for about a month and that's it.

Saturday started out chilly and grey with a bit more breeze than I'd hoped for, but the short-day charter went ahead full-steam. 
Got out of the inlet at a leisurely 8:10, and back at the docs by 11:30 with an even dozen Spanish mackerel and a bonus bonito. I think the cold snap pushed the fish down and maybe slowed the morning bite, because I was marking good schools (and some big fish too), but had to work a little to get the strikes. 
Got a bunch more open weekends coming up before the summer heat comes on strong.  Come on out and get your fish on!

Topsail Beach Fishing Report

Atlantic Bonito 2023!

Atlantic bonito fishing in the Atlantic Ocean has been a popular activity among anglers for years. This year, the Atlantic bonito population seems to be on the rise, providing great opportunities for fishermen to catch these saltwater delicacies. 

The best time to go Atlantic bonito fishing is during their peak season from late summer through early fall. During this time of the year, the water temperature drops, and baitfish move closer to shore, attracting schools of bonito that feed aggressively. Anglers can catch them using a variety of techniques including trolling with lures or live bait, casting with spinning rods, and fly fishing

The water temps are heating up, and soon the fishing will be heating up too!  
As we roll into April, we will start taking our regular season bookings.  Catch the early season run of Atlantic Bonito (tasty little white tunas!) and Spanish mackerel... or let's go a bit further out to find the king mackerel as they start moving back into the area.  
It's a great time to fish, as the summer heat hasn't arrived and the ocean is beautiful.  Book now for weekend availability!

Spring fishing is about to kick off

North Carolina Fishing Report

The fishing in Hampstead, North Carolina has been fantastic this season. And even when it gets tough, folks kept their spirits up and focused on having a good time.  That's really what this is supposed to be all about.  Enjoy the experience of that big, beautiful ocean, and a day outdoors. We targeted Mackerel on this trip. But there's more to catch on this abundant water! Explore with us!

Hampstead, NC Fishing Report

I can't say the fishing was gangbusters, but the bite was consistent and the crew was able to put 16 Spanish in the box.  There were a bunch of "remote releases" as well.  There's a trick to landing a Spanish on a planer, but the crew started getting it down as the day went on.  

Three Spanish Mackerel caught while fishing in Hampstead

Four Atlantic Bonito, Little Tunny, and Cero Mackerel caught while fishing in North Carolina

Little Tunny fish caught while fishing in Hampstead

Book now and explore the North Carolina waters with Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures!

Welcome to Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, your premier choice for top-tier North Carolina fishing charters. Operating out of the productive waters of Topsail Beach, Captain Phillip leads tailored inshore and offshore fishing trips designed for anglers of all ages and skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. We specialize in creating memorable days on the water, whether you are looking for a classic guided boat trip or a customizable kayak fishing charter along the scenic North Carolina coast. Our goal is to deliver an exceptional, educational experience that showcases the very best of our local marine ecosystem. When you fish with us, you will head out to the region's most fertile grounds to target highly sought-after species like Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Bluefish, and Cobia. Captain Phillip provides the expert guidance, high-end gear, and local knowledge needed to help you master effective angling techniques and land impressive catches. Ready to experience the finest coastal fishing the East Coast has to offer? Book your Topsail Beach fishing trip with Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures today to secure your date on the water.

Give the gift of adventure with a fishing charter from Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, LLC, led by Captain Phillip Loughlin. Treat your loved ones to an unforgettable experience in Topsail Beach, NC.

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Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, LLC The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Topsail Beach, NC

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. <h2>The Boat &amp; Equipment</h2>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.

Meet The Expert Captain Phillip Who Provides Enjoyable Trips

Experience world-class offshore fishing in NC. Target cobia, amberjack, and more with expert guides. Book your adventure today!

Offshore Fun

Premium NC Offshore Fishing | 8-Hour Charter

Get your North Carolina fishing license today and reel in your next big catch! Easy application process for all fishing enthusiasts.

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Things To Do In Topsail Beach NC 

Experience top-rated inshore kayak fishing in Topsail Beach. Target redfish, trout & more with Katfish Kayak. Book now!

Kayak Catch

Top-Rated Inshore Fishing Charters in Topsail Beach

Experience world-class offshore fishing in Topsail Beach. Target sailfish, tuna, and more on this full-day adventure. Book now!

Gulf Stream Trip

World-Class Gulf Stream Fishing | 12-Hour Charter

Book a 3-hour inshore fishing trip designed for kids in North Carolina. Catch flounder, mackerel, and more!

Kids Fishing Fun

Expert-Guided Kids' Fishing Trip in North Carolina

Join our exclusive offshore kayak fishing trip in Topsail NC. Target pompano, grouper & more near Frying Pan Tower. Book now!

Offshore Quest

Premier 10-Hour Offshore Fishing in Topsail NC

Experience world-class offshore fishing in Topsail NC. Target sailfish, mackerel, and mahi-mahi on this full-day adventure.

Deep Sea Thrills

Epic Gulf Stream Fishing NC | 10-Hour Adventure

Experience custom offshore fishing in Hampstead, NC. From quick trips to sunset cruises, we craft your ideal adventure. Book now!

Custom Catch

Custom Offshore Fishing in Hampstead, NC

Premium kayak mothership trips targeting Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack and Mahi Mahi. Book your spot today.

Offshore Romp

Elite NC Offshore Kayak Fishing Adventure

Book your half day offshore fishing trip in Topsail Beach NC. Target Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, King Mackerel and Cobia with expert guides.

Weekend Angler

North Carolina's Best Offshore Fishing Adventure

Purchase your fishing licenses ahead of time

All trips leave from Hampstead, NC

We can also arrange to pick you up

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Common Questions: What types of fishing charters does Katfish Kayak offer in Topsail Beach, NC?Katfish Kayak offers a variety of fishing charters in Topsail Beach, NC, including nearshore, offshore, wreck fishing, and reef fishing trips. How much does a fishing charter cost in Topsail Beach, NC?Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, LLC varies depending on the type of trip and duration. Our charter cost $300 to $1750 What is included in the price of a fishing charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC?The price of a fishing charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC, typically includes the use of fishing gear, bait, and the expertise of an experienced guide. Are there any discounts available for fishing charters in Topsail Beach, NC?Katfish Kayak may offer discounts on fishing charters in Topsail Beach, NC, for groups or at certain times of the year. Contact them directly for more information. What types of fish can I expect to catch on a fishing charter in Topsail Beach, NC?On a fishing charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC, you can expect to catch a variety of fish, including Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and more. How long are fishing charters with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC?Fishing charters with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC, can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the type of trip you choose. Can I bring my own fishing gear on a charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC?Yes, you are welcome to bring your fishing gear, especially on a kayak mothership trip. However, we provide all the necessary gear if needed. Do I need a fishing license for a charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC?Yes, you will need a fishing license for a charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC. Captain Phillip does not provide the fishing license for the day, but he can assist you in obtaining one. How many people can go on a fishing charter with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC?The number of people allowed on a fishing charter with Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, LLC are 4 anglers. Are there any age restrictions for fishing charters with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC?There are no specific age restrictions for fishing charters with Katfish Kayak in Topsail Beach, NC. However, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Join me on the southeastern NC coast!

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Deposit: A 20% deposit is required for all online bookingsBalance is due in cash or credit card on the day of the trip.

Tips: Tips are greatly appreciated for a job well done

Guest Cancellation: &nbsp;In the event that you need to request a cancellation, you must do so&nbsp;3 days before your charter date in order to receive a refund for your deposit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Guide Cancellation: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, equipment issues or health, you will have the option to reschedule for a future date or cancel and receive your deposit back in full.

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