Captain Harvey’s Fishing Gear Recommendations for NC Anglers
Welcome to my NC Saltwater Fishing Gear Recommendations page. This is where I share the gear that I trust and use on my inshore and nearshore fishing charters here in Ocean Isle Beach, NC —not sponsor hype.
Want fishing tactics, species guides, and regulations? Head to my NC Saltwater Fishing Blog. Looking for trip-by-trip catch details? Visit my OIB Fishing Reports.
Does Fishing Scent Work in Saltwater?
For a long time, I didn't bother with fishing scent. Like a lot of anglers, I figured if I put the right lure in front of the right fish and worked it correctly, that was the only thing that mattered. Sometimes it is. But sometimes you're dealing with lethargic fish, short-striking fish, or ones that instantly spit the lure out. That's where fishing scent can help...READ ARTICLE
Best Bottom Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
If you’re looking for the best bottom fishing rod and reel combos for Red Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, Black Sea Bass, Triggerfish, Vermilion Snapper, and other reef fish, you’re in the right place. I’ve spent years fishing reefs, wrecks, ledges, and hard bottom off the North Carolina coast. During that time, I’ve learned that most anglers don’t need a dozen specialized bottom fishing outfits. In fact, two quality setups can cover nearly every bottom fishing situation you’re likely to encounter...READ ARTICLE
Best King and Spanish Mackerel Rod and Reel Combos
Trolling gear takes a different kind of abuse than most fishing setups. Planers pull hard, trolling spoons create constant drag, reels get run for hours at a time, and when a big King Mackerel lights up a bait, weak gear gets exposed in a hurry. That’s why when I recommend a combo, it’s because it has the drag, bend, reliability, and durability to actually do the job.....READ ARTICLE
Best Inshore Fishing Rod and Reel Combos
If you’re looking for the best inshore rod and reel combo, you’re in the right place. These are the setups I use as a full-time inshore fishing guide and charter captain in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina — based on what actually holds up on the water, not what looks good on a store shelf....READ ARTICLE
Best Lithium Trolling Motor Batteries for Saltwater
As a full-time charter Captain fishing more than 200 days a year, I’ve learned the hard way what works and what doesn’t. In this post, I’ll walk through what makes lithium batteries so effective, which models I’ve tested or trust, and what you should know before upgrading...READ ARTICLE
Video Tutorial: Building Your Own Shark Fishing Rigs
When I’m running shark fishing charters out of Ocean Isle Beach, this is the exact rig I trust. It’s simple, durable, and quick to build. Once you’ve got the right gear, you can make one in just a couple of minutes. I use these rigs with clients all season long, and they...READ ARTICLE
How to Tie a Live Bait Rig for Redfish
If you're looking to catch Redfish on live bait, you don't need anything fancy — just a clean, reliable rig that keeps your bait swimming naturally and your hook ready for the strike. Here’s the exact live bait rig I use when targeting redfish around Ocean Isle Beach...READ ARTICLE
