Fresh WorldClass New Bern Redfish Fishing Trip

New Bern Red Drum Fishing Adventures

Redfish caught light tackle fishing in New Bern, partly cloudy day

The boat glides across the Neuse River. Sunlight dances on the water. A fisherman casts his line. The rod bends. A flash of red beneath the surface. The fish fights. It breaks the water. A beautiful redfish. The angler reels carefully. The net is ready. The fish comes aboard. A quick photo. Then release. The redfish swims away. Another great day on the water.

Trip lead by the Guide

Ashley King

New Bern, NC

Cast Trout, Drum & more w/ a seasoned professional

Summary

New Bern, North Carolina offers an exceptional light tackle fishing experience for anglers seeking the prized Sciaenops ocellatus, commonly known as red drum or redfish. The image showcases a successful catch, with a beaming angler proudly displaying a hefty redfish against the backdrop of calm coastal waters. These powerful fish thrive in the diverse estuarine environments surrounding New Bern, where the Neuse and Trent Rivers converge. Anglers can explore the shallow flats, oyster beds, and grass lines that characterize the area, providing ideal habitats for redfish to feed and shelter. The brackish waters create a perfect ecosystem for baitfish, crustaceans, and other prey that attract these copper-colored predators. Light tackle fishing methods, such as using spinning gear or fly rods, add an extra layer of excitement to the pursuit, allowing anglers to feel every head shake and powerful run as they battle these formidable opponents. Whether sight-casting to tailing reds in skinny water or working deeper channels, the thrill of hooking into a New Bern redfish is unparalleled. The region's mild climate allows for year-round fishing opportunities, with peak seasons typically occurring in spring and fall when redfish are most active. Local guides and charters can provide invaluable knowledge of hotspots, tides, and techniques to maximize your chances of landing these sought-after gamefish. A fishing trip targeting Sciaenops ocellatus in New Bern not only offers fantastic angling action but also the chance to experience the natural beauty and rich maritime heritage of coastal North Carolina.

Scenic Waterways of New Bern

The image showcases the tranquil waterways surrounding New Bern North Carolina. A small fishing boat glides across the calm surface reflecting the golden hues of a beautiful sunset. The shoreline is adorned with lush vegetation and tall trees creating a picturesque backdrop for anglers seeking the prized Sciaenops Ocellatus commonly known as redfish.

Light Tackle Fishing Adventure

Anglers can be seen casting their lines from the boat using light tackle equipment. This method allows for a more sensitive feel and exciting fight when hooking into a powerful redfish. The shallow waters and grassy areas visible in the image provide ideal habitat for these sought-after gamefish making New Bern a prime destination for light tackle enthusiasts.

Sunset Serenity on the Water

As the day winds down the warm glow of the setting sun paints the sky in vibrant oranges and pinks. This magical time known as the golden hour not only offers breathtaking views but also presents an excellent opportunity for fishing. The low light conditions often trigger increased feeding activity among redfish providing anglers with the perfect chance to land their trophy catch while surrounded by the serene beauty of New Berns coastal waters.

Specie explored in this image

Redfish

Species Name: Redfish

Species Family: Sciaenidae

Species Order: Perciformes

Habitat: Onshore, Flats, Backcountry, Nearshore

Weight: 10 - 45 pounds

Length: 30" - 61"

The Sciaenops Ocellatus, commonly known as the Red Drum or Redfish, is a sight to behold in the waters of New Bern, NC. As we cruise along the Neuse River, the anticipation builds. The partly cloudy sky creates the perfect conditions for fishing, with patches of sunlight dancing on the water's surface. The air is thick with salt and excitement. Suddenly, there's a tug on the line. The rod bends dramatically, and the fight is on. The water churns as the powerful fish pulls and dives. Minutes feel like hours as the angler skillfully plays the fish, careful not to lose this prized catch. Finally, a flash of copper breaks the surface. It's a magnificent Red Drum, its scales gleaming in the sunlight. The distinctive black spot near its tail confirms its identity. As we bring it aboard for a quick measurement and photo, we marvel at its size and beauty. This specimen is pushing 40 inches, a true trophy catch. After a moment of admiration, we gently release it back into the Neuse River, watching as it disappears into the depths. The thrill of the catch lingers, a memory that will last a lifetime. This is the magic of fishing for Sciaenops Ocellatus in the rich waters of New Bern – each cast holds the promise of an unforgettable encounter with one of nature's most impressive game fish.

More species you can explore on this trip

Redfish

Striped Bass

Other customer memories from this trip

The 24-foot center console fishing boat is designed for both inshore and nearshore angling adventures. Its spacious open deck layout provides ample room for multiple anglers to cast and fight fish comfortably. The raised console houses modern electronics including a GPS chartplotter fishfinder combo and VHF radio. Rod holders line the gunwales and transom while a large live well keeps bait fresh. The T-top offers shade and additional rod storage overhead. Twin outboard engines provide reliable power and maneuverability. A cooler doubles as forward seating. The boat is equipped with all required Coast Guard safety gear as well as an EPIRB for offshore excursions. With its shallow draft and versatile design this vessel can access skinny inshore waters or venture out to deeper fishing grounds depending on the day's target species and conditions. An experienced captain at the helm ensures a safe and productive day on the water for charter clients pursuing gamefish.