%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F1528%2Fimages%2Fkeepcastincharters.png&w=1200&q=100)
Ashley Kings New Bern Redfish Fishing Guide
Redfish Fishing in New Bern
%2F%2Fusers%2F7c30e927-fbcc-4b52-8885-61a23b616778%2Fimages%2Fnew-bern-redfish-light-tackle-5027.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Sciaenops Ocellatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. It typically measures between 30 and 61 inches in length, with a weight range from 10 to 45 lbs. Habitat: onshore, flats, backcountry, nearshore. - Redfish are also known as Red Drum and are prized game fish along Atlantic coastlines. - They can be identified by distinctive eyespots near the tail and copper-red coloration.
Fishing Guide by Guide Ashley King in August
Meet your Guide Ashley King
- Cast Trout, Drum & more w/ a seasoned professional
Summary
Guide Ashley King of Keep Castin' Charters on Saturday June delivered an outstanding Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip targeting redfish and striped bass on the Neuse River. This premier inshore fishing experience combines expert local knowledge with top-quality gear, launching from James City to access prime fishing spots. Our guided trips feature bottom fishing, live bait tactics, and trolling techniques perfectly suited for New Bern's productive waters. Whether you're after the area's prized redfish or battling striped bass, our experienced captain knows exactly where to find the action. The Neuse River offers some of North Carolina's best inshore fishing opportunities, with shallow flats and backcountry areas that hold trophy-sized fish year-round. Book your fishing charter today and experience why anglers choose Keep Castin' Charters for unforgettable days on the water near New Bern.
Fishing Charter with Ashley King – Rates & Booking
Guide Ashley King of Keep Castin' Charters on Saturday June offers Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trips starting at competitive rates for up to 3 guests. Your charter includes all fishing gear, expert instruction, and access to prime redfish and striped bass locations on the Neuse River. We launch from James City and target the shallow flats, backcountry areas, and nearshore waters where these prized species thrive. Licensed and experienced, Ashley provides personalized guidance for anglers of all skill levels. Book online or call to reserve your spot – trips fill quickly during peak season.
Highlights of Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip
This half-day charter maximizes your time on the water with proven techniques including bottom fishing, live bait presentation, and strategic trolling. The Neuse River system offers diverse fishing opportunities from shallow flats perfect for sight-fishing redfish to deeper channels holding striped bass. Our local knowledge ensures you'll fish the most productive spots based on current conditions, tides, and seasonal patterns.
The trip accommodates up to 3 anglers, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a personalized fishing experience. All tackle, bait, and safety equipment are provided, so you can focus on enjoying the action and learning new techniques from an experienced guide.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish are the crown jewel of New Bern's inshore fishing scene, thriving in the shallow waters, flats, and backcountry areas surrounding the Neuse River. These copper-colored fighters prefer depths of 1-4 feet, making them perfect targets for sight-fishing and light tackle techniques. In June, redfish are particularly active during early morning and late afternoon periods, often found cruising the grass flats and oyster bars in search of crabs and baitfish. Their distinctive spotted tails and bronze coloration make them easy to identify, while their powerful runs and stubborn fights provide thrilling action for anglers of all experience levels.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 4-hour adventure begins with an early morning departure from James City, where you'll meet Ashley and receive a brief orientation on safety procedures and fishing techniques. The boat is equipped with quality rods, reels, tackle, and all necessary safety gear for a comfortable day on the water. We'll target multiple spots based on tide, weather, and fish activity, using a combination of bottom fishing, live bait, and trolling methods to maximize your success. The trip is designed for anglers of all skill levels, with hands-on instruction provided throughout the day to help you improve your technique and increase your catch rate.
Fishing in Neuse River: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, is a highly prized game fish belonging to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. These distinctive copper-colored fish are easily identified by their characteristic eyespots near the tail and their bronze-red back that fades to a white belly. In New Bern waters this June, redfish have been particularly active in the shallow flats and backcountry areas of the Neuse River system.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore species along the Atlantic coast, valued for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. These drum family members can live over 40 years and are known for their powerful runs and stubborn resistance when hooked. Anglers prize them for their light, flaky meat and the exciting sight-fishing opportunities they provide in shallow water.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
Redfish thrive in shallow coastal waters, preferring depths of 1-4 feet around grass flats, oyster bars, and backcountry areas. Around New Bern, they're commonly found in the Neuse River's tributaries, tidal creeks, and nearshore waters. These fish move between deeper channels and shallow flats based on tides, feeding primarily in areas with good structure and abundant baitfish.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically range from 30 to 61 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 45 pounds. Slot-sized fish (18-27 inches) are most commonly targeted by recreational anglers, while larger "bull" redfish over 27 inches provide trophy-class fishing experiences.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish in shallow water. They often feed with their heads down and tails up, creating distinctive "tailing" behavior that alerts anglers to their presence. These fish are most active during moving tides, particularly early morning and late afternoon periods.
Redfish Spawning Season
Redfish spawn in nearshore waters from late summer through fall, with peak activity occurring when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. During spawning season, large schools of adult fish gather in deeper waters before returning to inshore areas.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Successful redfish techniques include sight-fishing with live or artificial baits, bottom fishing with cut bait, and using topwater lures during early morning periods. Popular baits include live shrimp, mud minnows, and cut mullet. In June around New Bern, anglers find success using light tackle and targeting shallow grass flats during incoming tides when redfish move up to feed.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood choice. Popular cooking methods include blackening, grilling, and baking, with the meat holding up well to bold seasonings and spices.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, cut mullet, and mud minnows are top choices, with artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics also highly effective.
Q: Where can I find redfish near New Bern?
A: Focus on shallow grass flats, oyster bars, and tidal creeks in the Neuse River system, particularly during moving tides.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have firm, white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides, with spring through fall offering the most consistent action.
More species you can explore on this trip
Keep Castin' Charters Available Trips
Other customer memories from this trip
Ready for some fun on the water? Join us for a laid-back 4-hour fishing trip on the beautiful Neuse River in North Carolina. Our comfy boat has room for you and two buddies, so grab your pals and let's go catch some fish! We've got all the gear you need, and our friendly captain knows all the best spots for reeling in redfish, striped bass, and other local favorites. Don't worry if you're new to fishing - we'll show you the ropes and help you improve your skills. And if you're already a pro, you'll love testing your expertise in these fish-rich waters. Either way, you're in for a great day out on the river. The Neuse offers gorgeous scenery and peaceful vibes, perfect for escaping the daily grind. So come on out, soak up some sun, and see what you can catch. It's a great way to make some fun memories with friends or family. Book your trip now and get ready for some quality time on the water!
