%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F1528%2Fimages%2Fkeepcastincharters.png&w=1200&q=100)
Caught a Redfish Inshore in New Bern
Redfish Fishing in New Bern
%2F%2Fusers%2F7c30e927-fbcc-4b52-8885-61a23b616778%2Fimages%2Fredfish-light-tackle-new-bern-6032.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 gamefish along Atlantic coastlines. - They can be identified by distinctive black spots 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 inshore fishing experience on the Neuse River. This Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip targets prime redfish and striped bass waters around New Bern, using proven bottom fishing and live bait techniques. The partly cloudy conditions created ideal fishing weather, with multiple hookups and quality catches throughout the morning session. Our licensed guide provides all tackle and local expertise for anglers seeking the best inshore fishing North Carolina has to offer. Whether you're targeting redfish in the shallows or working deeper structure for striped bass, these guided trips maximize your time on productive waters. The Neuse River system offers excellent year-round fishing opportunities, with summer months providing consistent action for both novice and experienced anglers looking to experience premier inshore fishing.
Fishing Charter with Ashley King – Rates & Booking
Guide Ashley King of Keep Castin' Charters on Saturday June offers comprehensive inshore fishing experiences starting at competitive rates for up to 3 guests. This Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip includes all fishing gear, tackle, and expert instruction for targeting redfish and striped bass in prime Neuse River locations. Our licensed guide provides local knowledge of seasonal patterns, productive techniques, and the best fishing spots around New Bern. Book online to secure your preferred date and experience the quality inshore fishing that makes North Carolina waters famous among anglers.
Highlights of Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip
This guided fishing experience combines proven techniques like bottom fishing, live bait presentation, and strategic trolling to maximize your success on the water. The Neuse River system offers diverse structure and habitat perfect for redfish and striped bass, with shallow flats, deeper channels, and productive drop-offs all within easy reach. Our trips launch from James City, providing quick access to prime fishing areas while avoiding crowded public spots.
The partly cloudy conditions during this trip created ideal fishing weather, with comfortable temperatures and reduced glare that helped spot fish movement in shallow water. These summer months offer consistent action, though our experienced guide adjusts techniques based on seasonal patterns, weather conditions, and fish behavior to ensure productive outings year-round.
Local Species Insights: Redfish
Redfish thrive in the Neuse River's shallow waters, backcountry flats, and nearshore structure around New Bern. These copper-colored gamefish prefer depths of 1-4 feet where they feed on crabs, shrimp, and baitfish along grass beds and oyster bars. Summer fishing targets redfish during early morning and late afternoon feeding periods when they move into skinny water to hunt. The distinctive black spots near their tail make them easy to identify, and their powerful runs provide exciting fights on light tackle setups that our guide specializes in using.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our Private 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Trip accommodates up to 3 guests with all necessary equipment provided, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. We launch from James City for convenient access to productive fishing areas, with trip timing adjusted based on tides and weather conditions. The boat features comfortable seating, safety equipment, and fish storage for your catch. Guide Ashley King provides instruction for all skill levels, from basic casting techniques to advanced live bait presentations that consistently produce results on these waters.
Fishing in Neuse River: Redfish
The Redfish (Sciaenops ocellatus), also known as Red Drum, belongs to the order Perciformes and family Sciaenidae. This prized gamefish inhabits Atlantic Ocean coastlines from Massachusetts to Florida, with particularly strong populations in North Carolina waters. Redfish are easily identified by their distinctive copper-red back that fades to white on the belly, plus one or more black "eyespots" near the tail. In New Bern waters this June, anglers consistently find them in shallow backcountry areas and nearshore flats.
Redfish Overview
Redfish are among the most sought-after inshore gamefish along the Atlantic coast, prized for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. They inhabit a variety of coastal environments from shallow grass flats to deeper nearshore waters, making them accessible to both novice and experienced anglers. Their light, flaky meat and mild flavor make them a favorite among seafood enthusiasts.
Redfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish prefer shallow coastal waters ranging from 1 to 4 feet deep, including grass beds, oyster bars, and sandy flats. Around New Bern, redfish frequent the Neuse River system's backcountry areas, tidal creeks, and nearshore structure. They move with tides to feed in different areas throughout the day, often pushing into very shallow water during high tide periods.
Redfish Size and Weight
Adult redfish typically measure 30 to 61 inches in length and weigh between 10 to 45 pounds. Smaller "slot-sized" fish in the 18-27 inch range are common catches for inshore anglers, while larger "bull" redfish over 27 inches provide trophy-class fishing experiences with their incredible strength and endurance.
Redfish Diet and Behavior
Redfish are opportunistic feeders that hunt crabs, shrimp, mullet, and other baitfish in shallow water. They use their downturned mouths to root through sand and mud for crustaceans, often creating visible "muds" that alert anglers to their presence. Peak feeding activity occurs during dawn and dusk hours when they move into skinny water to hunt.
Redfish Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in nearshore waters during late summer and early fall when water temperatures range from 70-80°F. Adult redfish form large schools in deeper water for spawning activities, then return to inshore areas for feeding. Juvenile fish spend their first years in protected estuarine waters before moving to nearshore environments.
Redfish Fishing Techniques
Successful redfish techniques include sight fishing with live shrimp or crabs, bottom fishing with cut bait, and artificial lures like spoons and soft plastics. Light tackle spinning gear allows for accurate casts in shallow water while providing enough power to handle strong runs. In June around New Bern, anglers find success using live bait near oyster bars and grass beds during moving tides.
Redfish Is It Good to Eat?
Redfish offer excellent eating with firm, white meat that has 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 various seasonings and preparation styles.
Redfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for redfish?
A: Live shrimp, blue crabs, and cut mullet are top choices, with shrimp being most versatile for different water conditions and seasons.
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 tide periods.
Q: Is redfish good to eat?
A: Yes, redfish have mild, flaky white meat that's excellent grilled, blackened, or baked with various seasonings.
Q: When is the best time to catch redfish?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides provide the most consistent action, especially in summer months.
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!
