What Is Deep Sea Fishing Really Like?
Deep sea fishing is more than traveling offshore and dropping a line.
It is reading the ocean.
It is watching water temperatures, currents, bait and bird activity. It’s knowing when to change a lure spread, when to move and when to stay with an area that is producing.
And sometimes, it’s simply being patient.
Captain Andy offers full-day deep sea fishing charters from Hatteras aboard the Good Times, a 45′ Custom Carolina sportfisher set up for the different kinds of fishing found here.
Deep Sea Charter at a Glance
● Departure: Oden’s Dock Marina
● Boat: 45′ Custom Carolina Sportfisher
● Captain: Andy Piland
● Trip Length: Full-day offshore adventure
● Target Species: Varies by season
● Technology: Modern electronics and Omni Directional Sonar
● Comfort: Heated and air-conditioned salon with a clean restroom and
comfortable seating
The Ocean Decides What the Day Becomes
One of the biggest differences between fishing offshore and fishing from shore is how varied the ocean can be and how quickly conditions can change.
The diversity of fishing grounds and conditions available to anglers in Hatteras is part of the appeal.
Several miles offshore, the current may be different. A temperature break may develop. Bait could move into another area. Birds may suddenly indicate feeding activity.
Captain Andy evaluates fishing conditions throughout the trip. If the original plan is no longer optimal, he says so and explains what he believes gives the anglers the best opportunity for a productive catch.
The fishing plan can include:
● Offshore trolling
● Working temperature breaks
● Following bait concentrations
● Watching bird activity
● Targeting productive offshore structure
● Adjusting lure spreads
● Bottom fishing
● Deep-water fishing
Captain Andy does not keep doing something simply because it
was the plan when the boat left the marina. Offshore fishing rewards a captain who
draws on his experience, keeps watching, and is willing to adjust.
When conditions change, so does the strategy.
A Fishery With Plenty of Options
Deep sea fishing around Hatteras offers more than one type of target.
Depending on the season and conditions, anglers may encounter:
Offshore Game Fish
Bluefin Tuna, Blackfin Tuna, dolphinfish and wahoo can provide fast-paced action on the surface.
King Mackerel Wahoo, and Trophy Blackfin Tuna
Live bait fishing for these These species provides another opportunity for anglers looking for a strong fight and a different style of offshore fishing.
Sharks
Targeting these predators gives anglers action packed fights with aggressive hunters.
Bottom Species
Bottom fishing is an important part of the Hatteras fishery, but not every offshore charter boat offers it. The Good Times is equipped and highly experienced in targeting amberjack, grouper, snapper, tilefish and other seasonal bottom species when that is the right opportunity for the day.
Billfish
When conditions and season align, anglers may also have opportunities for Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish or Swordfish.
The important thing is that not every offshore day is the same.
The Equipment Is Part of the Experience
Spending a full day offshore means the boat and equipment matter.
The Good Times is equipped for serious offshore fishing while providing a comfortable environment for guests.
On board:
● 45′ Custom Carolina sportfisher
● Spacious fishing cockpit
● Iced bait and catch storage
● Air-conditioned and heated salon
● Clean restroom
● Modern GPS and navigation equipment
● Advanced fish-finding technology including Omni Directional Sonar
● Premium rods, reels and tackle
● Seasonal greenstick, live-bait equipment, and kite fishing gear
● Up to date CG approved safety and emergency gear
The crew prepares the equipment before the trip so guests can spend their day
concentrating on fishing.
Learn While You're Fishing
Captain Andy wants guests to see more than the final catch. He wants them to understand how decisions are made offshore and why experience on these waters matters.
Why did the boat stop here?
Why did the crew change the spread?
Why are the birds suddenly important?
Why did the captain decide to move?
Guests are encouraged to ask questions and participate throughout the trip.
First-time offshore anglers can learn the basics.
Experienced fishermen can talk fishing with Andy and the crew.
The goal is not just to catch fish. It’s to help everyone understand and enjoy the experience.
What You’ll Remember
Some of the best parts of deep sea fishing happen when nobody is holding a rod.
The sunrise over the ocean provides a picture perfect start to the day.
The open Atlantic and our unique weather.
Be on the look out for porpoises from the time you leave the dock. Many times they are spotted playing in the sound.
Flying fish gliding over the waves.
Turtles sometimes appearing right beside the boat.
Then, without warning, the quiet can disappear when a reel starts screaming.
That’s deep sea fishing.
It’s unpredictable, active, peaceful and exciting—all in the same day
Experience Deep Sea Fishing From Hatteras
Aboard the Good Times Captain Andy has a capable boat, up to date equipment and flexibility to fish Hatteras the way he believes it should be fished: prepared for several possibilities, honest about the conditions, and ready to work for the best opportunity the day provides.
Ready to See What the Ocean Has in Store?
An individual North Carolina fishing license is not required to fish aboard the Good Times. Our license has you covered.
Contact Andy to book your deep sea adventure aboard the Good Times.
The Best Time for Deep Sea Fishing in Hatteras, NC
One of the advantages of fishing Hatteras is that every season brings new opportunities.
Depending on the time of year, anglers may experience:
Spring Fishing
- Tuna action
- Mahi-Mahi
- Early season offshore species
Summer Fishing
- Blue Marlin
- White Marlin
- Sailfish
- Mahi-Mahi
- Tuna
Fall Fishing
- Wahoo
- Tuna
- Mahi-Mahi
- Excellent offshore conditions
Winter Fishing
- Tuna opportunities
- Bottom fishing
- Seasonal offshore species
Planning your trip around a specific species? Check our Fishing Calendar to learn the best times to target your favorite fish.
What Should You Bring on Your Hatteras Deep Sea Fishing Trip?
We provide the equipment and expertise needed for your offshore adventure. Guests should bring:
- Food and drinks
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- A positive attitude
The ocean can change quickly, so dressing comfortably and being prepared will help make your trip more enjoyable.
Have questions before your trip? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact our team.
