Party boat or surf?

[Garv]

I'm going down to the outer banks with the family and I estimate that I will have two opportunities to go fishing, each for about 4 hours of fishing time.

I have a boat rod and a surf rod. In the board's opinion, which is a better use of time?

[kip]

When are you going? That will make a significant difference in the advice that you will receive.

[Garv]

I'm going down July 24-31.

Last year, I took a charter trip during May, we caught 240 lbs of bluefish between the two boats. It was alot of fun to reel them in, but I didn't have much use on vacation for that much fish, and I really didn't feel like I was fishing because all I did was walk over and reel fish in without much involvement in rigging, feeling the take, etc...

This year, with more experience under my belt, I am looking to be more hands-on.

[SuBourbon]

You aren't going to find a boat worth taking for 4 total trip hours.

If you can make more time, get on the Miss Hatteras at Oden's Dock (Hatteras Village). Otherwise, plan on sticking to the sand or wading in the sound.

[savfish]

It is usually pretty slow in the surf that time of year. You could try hitting one of the piers early for small bluefish/spanish mackeral if you have clean water. You could also try calling one of the small boat charters out of oregon inlet (rock solid, doa) and head out to the towers for some amberjack. They are really not edible, pull like a mother (reef donkey) and the trip could probably be done in about 6 hrs. The best part is there is no trolling involved - just drop a livebait down and hang on.

[Garv]

Thanks all, I might try one of the piers early/late. Or one of the small boats. I think the trolling thing was the big issue, because there is not much skill unless you are the mate or the captain.