for up to 3 anglers, plus $100 per additional angler (up to 4)
Every August, something remarkable happens on the Neuse River. Adult red drum, old drum as we call them, show up in massive numbers for their annual spawning migration, and for two months this fishery becomes one of the most extraordinary big-fish experiences anywhere in the country.
We are talking fish in the 40 to 50-plus inch range. The world record red drum was caught right here in North Carolina at 94 lbs, and it is not unusual to hook into something that makes you wonder if today is the day.
This is a catch-and-release-only fishery. These fish are old, often older than the anglers pursuing them, and they are critically important to the spawning population. We treat every fish with care and get them back in the water healthy and strong.
Captain Will targets these giants primarily with artificial lures, running the river ledges and drifting using popping corks to draw in the fish. The technique involves reading baitfish schools and working the surrounding water for drum that are feeding on the baitfish. Bottom fishing with bait can also be a very productive technique when the conditions are right.
If you are a big-fish junkie who loves light tackle, this is the trip you have been waiting for.
