Get ready to hit the open water for some serious offshore action with Captain Paul and Buddy Buoys Charters. This 10-hour trolling trip out of Beaufort, NC is your ticket to hooking into some of the Crystal Coast's most prized gamefish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your sea legs, you're in for a day of non-stop fishing excitement. We'll be targeting the colorful Mahi Mahi, hard-fighting Tuna, and lightning-fast Wahoo, so come prepared for an arm-workout and some epic photo ops.
As soon as we clear the inlet, it's go-time. Captain Paul knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll have lines in the water before you can say "Fish on!" We'll be covering some serious ground, trolling multiple lines to maximize our chances of hooking up. The beauty of offshore trolling is you never know what might grab your bait – could be a school of Mahi lighting up the spread or a Wahoo screaming off 300 yards of line in seconds. Pack some snacks, grab a cold drink from the cooler, and settle in for a day of watching those rod tips for the telltale dip that means it's time to spring into action.
If you're new to offshore trolling, don't sweat it – Captain Paul will give you the rundown. We'll be using a mix of surface and deeper-running lures, often with natural bait like ballyhoo to entice the big ones. The boat does most of the work, cruising at the perfect speed to make those lures dance enticingly behind us. When a fish hits, it's all hands on deck. You'll learn the finesse of playing the drag, letting the fish run when it needs to and cranking down when it's time to gain some line. It's a give-and-take that can last anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour for the real monsters. And trust me, when you see that flash of gold and blue as a big Mahi comes up alongside the boat, you'll be hooked for life.
Mahi Mahi, or Dorado if you're feeling fancy, are the rock stars of the offshore world. These acrobatic fighters are known for their stunning colors – electric blues, greens, and yellows that seem to shift and shimmer. They often travel in schools, so when you hook one, get ready for more action. Mahi can grow up to 50 pounds out here, though the average catch is in the 15-30 pound range. They're most abundant from late spring through fall, and they're not just beautiful – they're delicious too.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the deep. These streamlined predators can hit speeds of up to 60 mph, making for some of the most exciting strikes you'll ever experience. When a Wahoo grabs your bait, hold on tight – they're known for blistering runs that can empty a reel in seconds. We typically see them year-round here, but fall and winter can be prime time. Landing a 40+ pounder is always a possibility, and the fight is worth the price of admission alone.
Blackfin Tuna might be smaller than their Yellowfin cousins, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and fight. These football-shaped powerhouses usually range from 15 to 30 pounds, but they pull like they're twice that size. We often find them in schools, so when we hit the right spot, it can be non-stop action. They're around all year, but winter and early spring can see some epic bites. Fresh Blackfin sashimi right on the boat? Don't mind if I do!
Look, I've been running these trips for years, and I still get a rush every time we head out. There's something about that moment when the skyline disappears and it's just you, your crew, and miles of open ocean. The anticipation builds with every wake we cross, knowing that the next bite could be the trophy of a lifetime. And let's be real – there's no better way to spend a day than watching your buddy's face as they battle their personal best, or seeing a kid's eyes light up when they reel in their first Mahi. It's not just about the fish – it's about the stories you'll be telling for years to come.
If you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of the best gamefish the Atlantic has to offer, don't wait. Our 10-hour trolling trips with Buddy Buoys Charters book up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're a solo angler looking to join a group or you want to book the whole boat for your crew, we've got you covered. Captain Paul and the team will make sure you have everything you need for a day of world-class fishing off the Crystal Coast. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, your camera, and your sense of adventure – the big ones are out there, and they're calling your name. Book now and let's make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime!
Blackfin tuna may be small for a tuna, maxing out around 40 pounds, but they more than make up for it with their fight. These powerful little rockets school up near the continental shelf, often mixed in with skipjack. We catch them year-round, but fall and winter are best. Blackfins are a blast on light tackle and make great eating fresh or as sushi. To find them, look for birds working or bait balls near the surface. Vertical jigging or chunking can be deadly when they're deeper. Pro tip: Scale down your leaders and use smaller hooks - blackfins have sharp eyes and can be leader shy.
Mahi Mahi are real showstoppers out here. These colorful fish usually run 15-30 pounds and put up an amazing fight. We find them near floating debris and weed lines offshore, especially in summer and fall. They're fast swimmers that love to jump when hooked. Mahi have a mild, sweet flavor that's hard to beat for dinner. To boost your chances, keep an eye out for frigate birds - they'll often lead you right to the fish. And don't be afraid to "run and gun" if you see them busting bait on the surface. Toss out a live bait or colorful lure and hold on tight!
Wahoo are the speed demons of the ocean. These sleek, striped fish can hit 60 mph and average 3-5 feet long. We usually find them in deeper blue water, often near drop-offs or underwater structures. Fall is prime wahoo season here, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers love targeting wahoo for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. They're also excellent eating - firm, white meat with a mild flavor. My go-to technique is high-speed trolling with wire leaders and skirts or plugs. Keep your drag tight and be ready for explosive strikes!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 34
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 250