Family Fishing Fun in Carolina Beach

Published Date: September 22, 2025
Fishing

Carolina Beach
$575 - $690 price range

Summary

Looking for a fun day out with the family? This 5-hour fishing trip in Carolina Beach, NC is perfect for all ages. Captain Ray Dixon of Rip N Lips Charters keeps things relaxed and easy-going, making it ideal for kids and beginners. You'll be fishing for Red Drum, Trout, Flounder, and Mackerel using gear that's simple to handle. The focus here is on having a good time together, not intense fishing pressure. It's a great chance for kids to reel in their first catch or for everyone to enjoy some quality time on the water. The boat can take up to 3 guests, so it's just right for a small family group. Whether you're teaching the kids to fish or just want to soak up the Carolina coast, this trip offers a laid-back way to make some lasting memories.

Family Catches & Smiles

Redfish, a 27-inch fish, caught while fishing in NC

null

A single summer flounder, a 28-inch fish, caught while fishing at Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach Fishing Flounder

Best charter boats in Carolina Beach

Want to experience top Flounder fishing action?

Family Fun Fishing in Carolina Beach

Hey there, folks! If you're looking for a laid-back day on the water that the whole family can enjoy, you've come to the right place. Captain Ray Dixon here with Rip N Lips Charters, and I've got just the trip for you. We're talking about a 5-hour adventure right off the coast of Carolina Beach, NC that's perfect for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Whether you've got little ones who've never held a rod or experienced fishermen in the family, this trip is all about having a good time and maybe catching dinner while we're at it.

What to Expect on the Water

First things first – this isn't your hardcore, crack-of-dawn fishing marathon. We'll meet up at a reasonable hour, get everyone situated on the boat, and head out to some of my favorite inshore spots. The waters around Carolina Beach are teeming with fish, so we won't have to go far to find the action. I'll provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. And don't worry if you're new to this – I'll show you the ropes and make sure everyone's comfortable before we start casting.

We'll be targeting a mix of species like Redfish (we call 'em Red Drum around here), Trout, Flounder, and Spanish Mackerel. These fish are not only fun to catch but also delicious if you want to take some home for dinner. The great thing about inshore fishing is that the water's usually calmer, so seasickness is less of an issue – perfect for those who might get a bit queasy on the open ocean.

Fishing 101 for the Whole Crew

On this trip, we keep things simple and effective. We'll use light tackle setups that are easy for kids and adults to handle. Depending on what's biting, we might do some bottom fishing with live bait for Flounder, or cast lures for Trout and Redfish. If the Spanish Mackerel are running, we might even do a bit of trolling – that's where we pull lures behind the boat as we cruise along.

I'll show you how to bait your hook, cast your line, and most importantly, how to reel in a fish when you get a bite. For the kids, I've got some special lightweight rods that are perfect for small hands. And don't worry about tangled lines or lost lures – that's what I'm here for. My job is to make sure everyone has a chance to catch a fish and learn something new about fishing in the process.

Top Catches This Season

Let me tell you about some of the fish we'll be after. Each one's got its own personality, and they're all a blast to catch.

Redfish, or Red Drum, are like the bulldogs of the inshore world. These copper-colored beauties can put up a real fight, especially when they're in the 18-27 inch "slot" size that's legal to keep. They love hanging around structure like docks and oyster beds, and when they hit your bait, you'll know it. Fall is prime time for Reds, but we catch 'em year-round here.

Speckled Trout, also known as Spotted Seatrout, are the finesse fighters of our waters. They're known for their spotted sides and delicate mouths. These guys are most active in the cooler months, from fall through spring. Light tackle and soft plastics are the ticket for Specks, and they're a favorite for both eating and catch-and-release.

Flounder are the ninjas of the fish world. They lie flat on the bottom, blending in perfectly with the sand, waiting to ambush their prey. Catching a Flounder is all about patience and a slow retrieve. Summer and early fall are your best bet for these tasty flatfish. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of feeling that telltale "thump" when a Flounder takes your bait.

Spanish Mackerel are the speedsters of our inshore waters. These sleek, silvery fish show up in the warmer months, usually from late spring through early fall. They're fast swimmers and hard fighters for their size. Trolling with small spoons or casting light lures into schools of feeding Mackerel can lead to some serious action. Kids especially love catching these because of their speed and the way they make the reel sing when they run.

Why Families Keep Coming Back

You know what makes this trip special? It's not just about the fish – it's about the memories you make. I've seen kids catch their first fish ever on these trips, and let me tell you, the look on their faces is priceless. Parents get just as excited, if not more so. There's something about being out on the water together, away from screens and distractions, that really brings families closer.

And it's not just about catching fish. We often see dolphins playing in the wake of the boat, or pelicans diving for their lunch. Sometimes we'll spot sea turtles or even the occasional ray jumping out of the water. It's a full nature experience, and I love sharing these moments with my guests.

The pace of the trip is relaxed, so there's plenty of time for stories, jokes, and learning about the local ecosystem. I'm always happy to share tips on fishing techniques, talk about the area's history, or just chat about life. By the end of the trip, most folks feel like they've not only had a great day of fishing but also made a new friend.

Time to Book Your Spot

So there you have it, folks – a half-day of family-friendly fishing that's sure to create lasting memories. Whether you're looking to introduce your kids to the joys of fishing, want to spend some quality time with the family, or just fancy a relaxed day on the water with a chance to catch dinner, this trip's got you covered.

Remember, we can take up to 3 guests, so it's perfect for a small family outing. While we don't provide meals, you're welcome to bring snacks and drinks along. And don't forget the sunscreen and a camera – you'll want to capture those smiles when someone reels in a big one!

Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book your trip. Give Rip N Lips Charters a call, and let's get you and your family out on the water for a day of fishing fun in Carolina Beach. Trust me, the fish are waiting, and so are the memories. See you on the boat!

Learn more about the species

Freshwater Drum

Freshwater Drum, also called sheepshead or gaspergou, are an oddball catch that can be fun for the whole family. They usually run 10-14 inches and 1-8 pounds, but can get much bigger. You'll find them near the bottom in rivers and lakes, often in areas with a mix of sand and gravel. They're active year-round, but summer's your best bet. Anglers enjoy Drum fishing because they're easy to catch and put up a decent fight. To hook one, try a simple bottom rig with nightcrawlers, crayfish, or cut bait. Here's a tip: when you feel a bite, give it a second before setting the hook. Drum have small, downturned mouths and often need to turn the bait before fully taking it. Listen closely - you might hear the males making their signature grunting sound!

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are a hard-fighting inshore favorite. They average 20-30 inches and 6-12 pounds, but can get much bigger. Look for them in shallow water - 1 to 4 feet deep - around oyster bars, grass flats, and marsh edges. They're year-round targets, but fall is prime time when they school up. Anglers love Redfish for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. To catch 'em, try live or cut bait on the bottom, or cast artificial lures like spoons or soft plastics. Here's a local trick: on calm days, cruise the shallows and look for their copper-colored backs or tails sticking out of the water. Then, make a quiet cast ahead of them and hang on! Just remember, bigger Reds are often breeding stock, so we encourage catch and release for the big ones.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite inshore target here. They usually run 14-20 inches and 1-3 pounds, though bigger ones aren't uncommon. You'll find them in grass flats, around oyster bars, and near channel edges, especially early morning or late evening. Fall and spring are great seasons when water temperatures are moderate. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and delicate flavor. To catch Sea Trout, try live shrimp under a popping cork or soft plastic jigs worked slowly along the bottom. Here's a local tip: on calm mornings, look for subtle surface disturbances - that's often trout feeding on bait. Cast a topwater lure nearby and work it with gentle twitches. The explosions when they hit are a blast!

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are a speedy, streamlined fish that'll give you a good fight. They usually run 1-2 feet long and 2-8 pounds. Look for them in large schools near the surface, especially around structure in open waters. Summer and early fall are prime time, when they follow bait fish close to shore. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and tasty meat. To catch one, try trolling or casting small, shiny lures that mimic their favorite prey - things like spoons, jigs, or small plugs work well. A local trick: when you spot a school busting bait on the surface, cast just beyond the action and retrieve quickly through the school. Spanish Mackerel can't resist a fast-moving lure that looks like an escaping baitfish. Just watch those teeth when you're unhooking them!

Summer Flounder

Summer Flounder, or fluke, are masters of camouflage on the ocean floor. They're typically 15-20 inches long, but can get much bigger. Look for them in sandy or muddy bottom areas, especially near structures like wrecks or reefs. They're most active in warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Anglers enjoy targeting flounder for their tasty white meat and the challenge of detecting their subtle bites. To catch 'em, try drifting or slow trolling with a bucktail jig tipped with a strip of squid or small live bait. Here's a tip: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder a few seconds to fully take the bait, then slowly lift your rod tip. These ambush predators often grab bait sideways before turning it to swallow, so patience is key to hooking them solidly.

About the Rip N Lips Charters

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 3

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 27

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 115

Hop aboard for a laid-back 5-hour fishing trip with the whole family in Carolina Beach. Captain Ray Dixon of Rip N Lips Charters knows how to keep things fun and easygoing for anglers of all ages. You'll have a shot at reeling in Red Drum, Trout, Flounder, or Mackerel using simple gear that's perfect for beginners and experienced fishers alike. The captain's patient approach means everyone can go at their own pace, whether it's a youngster's first time holding a rod or parents looking to share their love of fishing. With room for up to 3 guests, it's an ideal outing for making memories together on the water. Soak in the coastal scenery, enjoy some laughs, and maybe land a few fish while bonding as a family in this beautiful part of North Carolina.

Sitemap