With over four decades of experience fishing these waters, Captain Phillip is ready to provide an exceptional fishing adventure for every member of your party. Fishing charters take place aboard Captain Phillip's 2018, 23-foot Parker vessel, which comfortably fits up to 4 anglers. Equipped with a powerful 300 HP Yamaha engine, the boat reaches fishing spots swiftly at a cruising speed of 35 knots. Advanced navigation and fish-finding technology, including GPS and radar systems, ensure you are guided precisely to prime fishing locations. The starting point for your trip can be adjusted for your convenience. Guests often describe the experience as incredibly enjoyable and the best guided fishing trip they've ever had—exceeding expectations and running smoothly from start to finish. Captain Phillip's trips come highly recommended for anyone seeking a memorable fishing outing.
You can cancel without any fees if you do so at least 48 hours before your scheduled trip, and the amount will be refunded to your account. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the trip, your deposit will be retained by the guide. Cancellations made on the same day or if you fail to show up will result in a charge of the full trip cost to your payment method.
Please remember to bring the following items:
Our 3/4 and full-day fishing excursions are designed for maximum flexibility, operating anywhere from 1 to 40 miles offshore of Topsail Island. Depending on sea conditions, we’ll venture to various prime spots including ledges, reefs, and wrecks, enhancing our chances to target a diverse range of species such as king mackerel, dolphin (mahi mahi), amberjack, barracuda, and occasionally sailfish.
These outings primarily involve trolling with bait and lures. The boat remains in motion throughout the trip, which many guests find more comfortable than drifting at anchor. While we currently don’t offer dedicated bottom-fishing trips, we may conduct drifts over structures when conditions allow, at the Captain’s discretion. This sometimes provides opportunities for jigging or dropping bait.
Our 30-foot vessel features a spacious cockpit perfect for active fishing, and a pilot house where you can take breaks from the sun or adverse weather. We are fully equipped with all necessary ocean-going electronics, including VHF radio, GPS navigation, depth finder/sonar, and radar. Safety gear onboard meets or exceeds federal charter boat standards. Restroom facilities are basic—either over-the-rail or using a pail. All fishing equipment including rods, reels, tackle, and bait is supplied. Anyone 16 or older must have a Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL), purchasable online. Children under 12 are required by North Carolina law to wear life jackets at all times; we provide some smaller sizes, but you’re welcome to bring your own.
We recommend bringing plenty of water, along with any preferred drinks and snacks. For longer trips, packing a lunch is advisable. The ocean environment can be demanding, so it’s important to stay well-fueled. Alcohol is permitted onboard, though we ask that smoking or vaping not be done on the boat. Don’t forget sunscreen, protective clothing like hats and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense, especially on summer days. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing medication such as Dramamine or Bonine—and for best results, start taking it the night before and again about an hour prior to departure.
Our main priority on every charter is to deliver an exceptional experience. While fishing is the highlight, there’s plenty more to enjoy including local history, pirate tales, shipwrecks, and the natural beauty of our beaches and islands. Our Captain, a lifelong local, loves sharing stories and insights—so please don’t hesitate to ask. Should you wish to cut your fishing short but still have time, we’re happy to offer a scenic cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Trips depart from Hampstead, NC, with the default pickup at Sloop Point Boating Access (613 Lewis Road). For guests staying on Topsail Island (including North Topsail and Surf City), we can arrange pickup at Soundside Park (517 Roland Avenue, Surf City) to save you the bridge crossing. If you have access to a private boat dock where you’re staying, we can pick you up there as well—just contact us in advance to coordinate. Our aim is to make your fishing adventure as convenient as possible.
That covers everything! We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable fishing trip. Let’s get out on the water and catch some fish!
