If you’re headed to Nags Head for a vacation getaway, there’s a decent chance you’ll be considering some type of fishing charter during your stay. Here at Speechless Sportfishing, we love educating the world regarding this amazing fishery, and the purpose of this article here is to give you a better sense as to what a fishing charter in the OBX will cost you. As you might imagine, there are many factors, and so we’ll break those down, and give price ranges, in the following article:
Factors Influencing the Cost of Offshore Fishing Charters in Nags Head
- Length of Trip
The duration of your fishing trip plays a significant role in determining the cost of your charter. Typically, charters in Nags Head offer half-day (4-6 hours), full-day (8-10 hours), and extended-day (12+ hours) trips. As you’d expect, the longer the trip, the higher the price. Half-day charters usually range from $500 to $1000, full-day charters from $1,000 to $1,500 (inshore), and full-day offshore charters which generally range from $2,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the amenities and additional services provided.
- Type of Vessel
The type of boat used for the offshore fishing charter is another crucial factor that affects the price. Smaller, more basic vessels are more affordable, while larger, more luxurious boats with additional amenities (like a gyrostabilizer) will come at a premium. For instance, you can expect to pay more for a charter with a large, comfortable cabin, air conditioning, and a full galley, as opposed to a smaller, open center console boat with fewer amenities.
- Size of Group
The number of people you bring along on your fishing trip also impacts the overall cost. Some charter boats charge per person, while others charge a flat rate for the entire boat, regardless of the number of passengers. In general, larger groups can expect to pay a higher overall price, but the per-person cost may be lower as it’s spread out among more people. For offshore charters, most of the boats in the Nags Head area have a limit of 6 customers, although there are some boats that can take more.
- Targeted Species
The specific type of fish you’re targeting can also influence the cost of your charter. Some species, like tuna and marlin, require longer trips and specialized equipment, resulting in higher costs. On the other hand, fishing for more common species like king mackerel, mahi-mahi, amberjack, or cobia may be more affordable, as they can often be found closer to shore and require less specialized gear.
- Season
The time of year you choose to go fishing in Nags Head can also affect the price of your charter. Peak fishing season typically runs from May to October, with the summer months being the busiest. During this time, prices may be higher due to increased demand. Booking during the slower season (early spring or late fall) can sometimes result in lower prices, but keep in mind that the availability of certain fish species may vary depending on the season. On our boat, Speechless, we generally charge the same amount for a full crew from the end of commercial bluefin season until the end of October.
- Captain and Crew
The experience and reputation of the captain and crew also play a role in determining the cost of your offshore fishing charter. Highly experienced captains with a proven track record of success may charge a premium for their services. However, this can be worth the investment, as their expertise often results in a more enjoyable and fruitful fishing experience. That being said, newer captains are oftentimes hungrier and willing to go the extra mile to put their party on the fish.
- Additional Services and Fees
Some charters include additional services and fees in their pricing, such as bait, tackle, and fish cleaning. Others may charge extra for these services or require you to bring your equipment. As an example, if you charter a boat out of the Oregon Inlet fishing center, you’re required to have your fish fileted by their filet house. With a decent catch, this can cost hundreds of dollars, especially if you load up on yellowfin or Bigeye tuna. Be sure to inquire about what is included in the price of your charter and factor in any additional expenses when comparing prices.
Well, hopefully that helps you have a much better sense as to the cost of an offshore fishing charter in the Nags Head, Outer Banks area. If you’re interested in going on a charter, please reach out to us here at Speechless Sportfishing today to make memories of a lifetime.