What kind of fishing trip should I book?
If you’re not sure which fishing charter to book,
Captain’s Choice is usually the best option.
A lot of folks book trips weeks or even months in advance, but fishing conditions change constantly. Weather, tides, water temperature, water clarity, and what’s been biting can all shift quickly.
Captain’s Choice gives me the flexibility, on the day of your trip, to choose the type of fishing that gives your group the best chance at success based on current conditions, whether that means fishing inshore, nearshore, or wherever the best bite is.
For example, if the ocean is rough but the inshore bite is strong, we pivot. If the nearshore fishing is hot, we take advantage of it.
The goal is simple: more action, more fish, and a better overall trip for your group.
If you already know exactly what you want, I also offer dedicated
Inshore Fishing Charters,
Nearshore Fishing Charters,
Shark Fishing Charters, and
Kids Fishing Trips in Ocean Isle Beach.
Are your fishing charters private?
Yes. Every trip is private.
You’ll never be paired with strangers. It will just be your group and me, Captain Harvey Wall, on the boat.
That allows me to tailor the trip to your experience level, goals, and what your group wants out of the day.
Who will be our captain? What are his qualifications and experience?
Your trip will be led by
Captain Harvey Wall, owner of Salty Dawg Fishing Charters.
I’m a USCG-licensed charter captain, US Army veteran, and full-time fishing guide based in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, with over 25 years of fishing experience.
I fish the local waters around
Ocean Isle Beach,
Sunset Beach,
Holden Beach,
Shallotte,
Calabash,
Little River, and the surrounding
Brunswick County waters regularly, so you’re getting a captain who knows these waters, not someone passing through.
Beyond putting people on fish, I take pride in running a safe, professional, family-friendly operation and helping guests of all skill levels have a great experience on the water.
Whether you’re a first-time angler or an experienced fisherman, my goal is simple: help you have a fun, safe, productive day on the water.
Are beginners welcome?
Absolutely.
A lot of my guests are beginners, and I genuinely enjoy teaching people how to fish.
If you’ve never picked up a rod before, that’s completely fine. I’ll walk you through casting, lure presentation, hook sets, fighting fish, and landing your catch.
If you’re experienced, I’ll adjust accordingly.
Are kids allowed on fishing charters?
Absolutely.
I enjoy helping kids learn to fish, and some of my favorite trips are watching young anglers catch their first fish.
Kids 13 and under are required to wear life jackets, and I provide properly fitted youth life jackets onboard.
If you’re looking for a shorter, beginner-friendly option designed specifically for younger anglers, check out my
Kids Fishing Charter in Ocean Isle Beach.
How many people can come?
Trips are limited to a maximum of 4 guests.
Trip pricing covers 1–3 guests. If you’re bringing a 4th guest, there is an additional $50 charge.
That keeps things safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone onboard.
Can non-anglers come along?
Yes.
Not everyone in your group has to fish. If someone wants to ride along, enjoy the boat, take photos, or simply spend time with family, that’s usually no problem as long as your total group stays within the guest limit.
Just let me know when booking.
What fish can we catch?
Can we request specific species?
Absolutely.
If there’s a specific fish you’d like to target, let me know.
That said, fishing is seasonal and conditions matter. Some species are realistic targets at certain times of year, while others may not be available or may not be the smartest use of your trip time.
I’ll always give you an honest answer and help set realistic expectations.
What’s the best time of year to fish in Ocean Isle Beach?
Fishing around Ocean Isle Beach is productive year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to catch.
Generally:
- Spring and summer are excellent for Nearshore Fishing, Shark Fishing, Spanish Mackerel, and mixed-species action.
- Fall is outstanding for Bull Redfish, Flounder, and King Mackerel.
- Winter can be excellent for Sea Bass, Speckled Trout, and Redfish.
What if we don’t catch fish?
Fishing is fishing.
No honest captain can guarantee fish every trip.
What I can guarantee is effort, preparation, and making smart decisions based on current conditions, recent reports, and seasonal patterns.
My goal is always to put you on the best available bite and make sure you have a great experience on the water.
Can we keep the fish we catch?
Yes, as long as the fish are within current legal size and bag limits.
While I personally enjoy catch-and-release fishing, you’re absolutely welcome to keep legal fish if you’d like to take some home.
Do you clean the fish we catch?
I do not offer full fish cleaning services, but I’ll bag your legal keeper fish for you at the end of the trip so they’re ready to take home.
If you plan to keep fish, bring a cooler with ice and leave it in your vehicle so you’re ready to keep your catch fresh for the ride home.
Where do we meet?
Most trips depart from:
67 Causeway Drive
Ocean Isle Beach, NC
I’ll send exact meeting details after booking.
Please plan to arrive about 10–15 minutes early so we can get everyone squared away and get on the water on time.
Parking is available at the launch area.
Do I need a fishing license?
No.
Your North Carolina charter fishing license is included with your trip.
No additional fishing license is required.
What should I bring?
I recommend bringing:
- Sunglasses, required for safety
- Sunscreen
- Light rain jacket
- Snacks
- Drinks
- Camera or phone for photos
- Cooler with ice in your vehicle if keeping fish
I provide:
- The boat
- The captain
- Fishing gear
- Bait
- Tackle
- Safety equipment
- Bottled water
- Your fishing license
Please no glass bottles.
What should I wear?
Dress for the weather and expect to be outdoors.
I recommend comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a little wet or fishy. Lightweight performance clothing works great in warm weather, while cooler months may require layers, a windbreaker, or rain gear.
Closed-toe shoes with non-marking soles and good grip are recommended, and they may get splashed depending on conditions. Sunglasses are required for safety, and a hat is always a good idea.
If you’re joining a nearshore or ocean trip, it’s smart to bring an extra layer, since it can often feel cooler on the water than it does on land.
Can I bring my own fishing gear?
Yes.
If you have favorite gear you’d like to bring, that’s fine. Just mention it beforehand so I can make sure it fits the trip plan and we have room onboard.
Most guests use my gear, which is already rigged and ready for the type of fishing we’ll be doing.
Is there a restroom on the boat?
Yes.
There is a small emergency-use restroom inside the center console.
Depending on the trip, there may also be opportunities to stop at facilities along the Intracoastal Waterway if needed.
Is your boat shaded?
Yes.
The boat has a T-top that provides shade, but this is still an outdoor fishing trip, so expect sun exposure and dress accordingly.
Sunscreen and sunglasses are strongly recommended.
Can I bring alcohol?
No.
For safety reasons, alcohol, illegal drugs, smoking, and vaping are not permitted onboard.
Safety always comes first.
What happens after I book?
Once you book, you’ll receive confirmation details for your trip.
If weather, conditions, or trip details require communication beforehand, I’ll reach out directly.
I try to keep things simple and straightforward.
Can I reschedule my trip?
If something comes up, contact me as soon as possible.
Rescheduling depends on availability and the amount of notice provided.
The more notice you give, the easier it is to make something work.
What happens if weather conditions keep us from going into the ocean?
Safety always comes first.
If weather or sea conditions make an ocean or nearshore trip unsafe, we’ll typically shift to an inshore fishing trip instead so you can still get out on the water and enjoy your day.
If conditions make all fishing unsafe, I’ll cancel the trip and offer a full refund or the option to reschedule.
What is your refund and cancellation policy?
Trips canceled 3 or more days before your scheduled charter receive a full refund.
Trips canceled with less notice are generally non-refundable because that time was reserved specifically for your group.
If I cancel due to unsafe weather, mechanical issues, or safety concerns, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
Do I need to sign a liability waiver?
Yes.
All guests are required to sign a liability waiver before the trip begins.
That’s standard practice for charter operations.
How much should I tip a fishing charter captain?
Tips are never required on my charters, but they’re always appreciated if you had a great experience.
If you’re unsure of the normal amount, 15%–20% is common for exceptional service.
I also have a full guide covering
how much to tip a fishing charter captain if you’d like more detail.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes.
Gift cards are available and make a great gift for birthdays, Father’s Day, Christmas, anniversaries, or anyone who loves fishing.
If you’re looking for a fishing charter gift in the Ocean Isle Beach area, a gift card is an easy option.
