NC Overnight Offshore Trip: Stack N Bills

Overnight Offshore Adventure in Morehead City

Ready for a serious offshore fishing trip that'll test your stamina and fill the cooler? This 2-day guided adventure out of Morehead City is the real deal. We're talking about heading way out into the Gulf Stream, where the big boys play. You'll be targeting everything from speedy Wahoo to hard-fighting Yellowfin Tuna, with plenty of action in between. And the best part? You get to fish straight through the night, maximizing your time on the water and your chances at landing that trophy catch.

What to Expect on the Water

This ain't your average day trip, folks. We're setting out for a full 24+ hours of non-stop fishing action. The captain will get us out to the prime offshore spots where we'll be trolling for pelagics during the day. As the sun sets, we'll switch gears and drop lines for nighttime bottom fishing. You'll be bunking on the boat, so pack light but smart - think layers and rain gear. The crew provides all the tackle and bait, so you just need to bring your A-game and be ready to reel 'em in. Fair warning: after hours of battling big fish, your arms might feel like noodles, but trust me, it's worth it when you're hoisting up that monster Mahi or Grouper for a photo.

Techniques & Terrain

We'll be using a mix of fishing methods to target different species throughout the trip. During daylight hours, expect to do a lot of trolling with spreader bars and skirted ballyhoo to entice those pelagics. The captain might also set up a kite rig if conditions are right - it's a killer technique for Sailfish. As night falls, we'll switch to bottom fishing, dropping heavy jigs and live bait to the structure below. The Gulf Stream is our playground out here, with its warm, nutrient-rich waters attracting all sorts of gamefish. We might hit some underwater ledges, wrecks, or artificial reefs depending on what's biting. The beauty of this extended trip is we can really explore and find where the fish are holding.

Top Catches This Season

Anglers have been crushing it lately on this overnight trip. The Mahi bite has been insane, with plenty of 'gaffers' (fish big enough to need a gaff to land) coming over the rails. Yellowfin Tuna have been showing up in good numbers too, especially in the early morning hours. The nighttime bottom fishing has been producing some stud Grouper and Amberjack that'll test your drag and your biceps. And let's not forget about Cobia - these "crab eaters" have been hanging around the wrecks, and they put up one heck of a fight.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish): These acrobatic fighters are a favorite for good reason. They're fast, they're beautiful, and man, are they tasty. Look for them around floating debris or weed lines. When you find one, there's usually more nearby - they travel in schools. The "bull" males can get up to 50 pounds or more, while the smaller "hens" are just as fun to catch.

Cobia: Also known as ling or lemonfish, these bruisers are like the linebackers of the sea. They're curious fish that often swim right up to the boat, but don't let their chill demeanor fool you - once hooked, they'll give you a run for your money. They love structure, so we'll target them around wrecks and reefs. The meat is excellent, firm and white, making them a prized catch for the dinner table.

Yellowtail Amberjack: These reef dwellers are pure muscle. When you hook into one, be ready for a serious workout. They hang out near structure and love to hit jigs and live bait. The bigger ones, which we call "reef donkeys," can top 50 pounds and will test your tackle and your back. They're most active in the warmer months, so summer and early fall are prime time.

Yellowfin Tuna: Speed demons of the open ocean, Yellowfin are what dreams are made of for many offshore anglers. They school up and can create massive feeding frenzies on the surface - a "tuna bust" is a sight you won't forget. We'll troll for them or chunk if we find a good school. They're incredible fighters and world-class sushi if that's your thing.

Gag Grouper: These bottom-dwelling brutes are ambush predators with serious power. They love to hang around rocky bottoms and reefs, waiting to inhale passing baitfish. When you hook one, your first job is to keep it from diving back into its rocky lair and breaking you off. They're most active in cooler months, making them a great target for fall and winter trips. The flaky white meat is a favorite for fish tacos.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Let me tell you, once you've experienced the thrill of an overnight offshore trip, it's hard to go back to anything else. The variety of fish you can catch is unbeatable - one minute you're battling a Wahoo at the surface, the next you're cranking up a big Grouper from the depths. Plus, fishing through the night gives you access to some species and bite windows that day-trippers miss out on. It's also a great chance to learn new techniques and really hone your skills with guidance from the crew. And there's something special about being out on the open water under the stars, away from all the hustle and bustle of shore life. It's fishing in its purest form, and it's addictive.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're serious about offshore fishing and want to maximize your time on the water, this 2-day trip out of Morehead City is hard to beat. You're getting access to some of the best fishing grounds in the Atlantic, with a crew that knows how to put you on the fish. Remember, spots are limited to 6 anglers, so don't sleep on this opportunity. Grab your buddies, pack some snacks (and maybe some Dramamine), and get ready for an offshore adventure you'll be talking about for years to come. The big ones are out there waiting - let's go get 'em!