Carolina Charters
HomeTrips & RatesGalleryReviewsFishing ReportsTarget SpeciesMeet the Captain

Learn More

My Trips

Fresh WorldClass Pogonias Cromis Fishing Wilmington NC

Experience the Thrill of Black Drum Fishing in Wilmington

Black Drum caught deep sea trolling in Wilmington NC

The boat rocks gently. Sunlight glints off the water. A line tugs. Excitement builds. The reel spins. A fish breaks the surface. Its dark scales shimmer. It's a black drum. The angler grunts with effort. The fish thrashes. Waves splash. The net dips. Success. The drum lies on deck. Its barbels twitch. A photo is snapped. Memories are made. The fish is released. It swims away. Another great day on the water.

Trip lead by the Captain

Victor Treto
Victor Treto
Victor Treto
Wilmington
  • Premier Wilmington Fishing Charters
Book A TripCopy LinkYoutubeFacebookInstagramX

Summary

Set sail from Wilmington, NC for an unforgettable deep-sea fishing adventure targeting the mighty Black Drum (Pogonias cromis). As you leave the coastal waters behind, the anticipation builds for encountering these powerful bottom-dwellers. Known for their distinctive appearance and impressive size, Black Drum can reach weights of over 100 pounds, providing an exhilarating challenge for anglers of all skill levels. The waters off Wilmington offer prime habitat for these sought-after fish, with rocky bottoms and oyster beds serving as their hunting grounds. As your boat reaches the fishing grounds, the crew will assist in setting up heavy tackle and preparing bait, often consisting of crabs, shrimp, or cut fish. The key to success lies in patience and technique, as you wait for the telltale tug of a Black Drum taking the bait. When hooked, these fish put up a formidable fight, testing your strength and skill as you work to bring them to the surface. The thrill of reeling in a massive Black Drum is unmatched, with their distinctive grunting sounds adding to the excitement. Beyond the fishing action, you'll have the opportunity to take in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, spotting marine life and enjoying the coastal scenery. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a newcomer to deep-sea fishing, targeting Black Drum off Wilmington promises an unforgettable experience filled with excitement, natural beauty, and the potential for a trophy catch.

Coastal Fishing Adventure

The image captures the essence of a thrilling deep-sea fishing expedition off the coast of Wilmington North Carolina. A proud angler stands on the deck of a charter boat displaying an impressive black drum also known by its scientific name Pogonias Cromis. The clear blue skies and calm waters provide the perfect backdrop for this memorable catch showcasing the rich marine life found in the Atlantic waters near Wilmington.

Black Drum Bonanza

The focal point of the photograph is the substantial black drum held by the beaming fisherman. These powerful fish are known for their distinctive appearance with dark vertical stripes on their sides and their ability to produce drumming sounds using specially adapted muscles. The size of this specimen suggests a successful day on the water and highlights the potential for anglers to land trophy-sized black drum in the fertile fishing grounds off Wilmington.

Charter Boat Experience

The setting of this fishing triumph is a well-equipped charter boat visible in the background. These vessels provide anglers with the opportunity to venture into deeper waters where large black drum and other prized game fish reside. The boat's sturdy construction and ample deck space offer comfort and stability for a day of fishing allowing enthusiasts to focus on the thrill of the catch while enjoying the scenic beauty of the North Carolina coastline.

Specie explored in this image

Black Drum
Black Drum
Species Name: Black Drum
Species Family: Sciaenidae
Species Order: Perciformes
Habitat: Brackish Waters, Onshore
Weight: 15 - 90 pounds
Length: " - "
The Pogonias Cromis, commonly known as the Black Drum, is a fascinating species that inhabits the brackish waters along the coast. These robust fish are easily recognizable by their distinctive appearance, featuring a dark gray to black coloration and prominent barbels on their chin. Black Drums are known for their impressive size, with some specimens reaching weights of up to 90 pounds, making them a prized catch for many anglers. They are bottom-feeders, using their sensitive barbels to locate prey such as crustaceans, mollusks, and smaller fish. The Black Drum's powerful pharyngeal teeth allow it to crush the shells of its prey, making a distinctive drumming sound that gives the species its name. These fish are often found near structures like pier pilings, oyster beds, and rocky bottoms, where they search for food and shelter. Anglers targeting Black Drum often use techniques like bottom fishing with natural baits such as crabs, shrimp, or clams. The fight of a large Black Drum can be intense, requiring skill and patience to land successfully. While smaller specimens are considered good eating, larger individuals may have a coarser texture and are often released to ensure the sustainability of the population.

Other customer memories from this trip

The fishing boat is a 32-foot center console design, perfect for offshore and nearshore charter trips. It features a sturdy fiberglass hull painted white with blue trim, providing a stable platform even in choppy conditions. The spacious open deck layout allows plenty of room for anglers to move about and fight fish. Twin outboard engines provide reliable propulsion and good fuel efficiency. The boat is equipped with state-of-the-art marine electronics including GPS, fishfinder, and radar. Multiple rod holders line the gunwales and there's a large live bait well to keep bait fresh. A T-top provides shade from the sun. The helm station has comfortable seating for the captain and includes all necessary controls and instrumentation. There's also a small cabin area below deck with a marine toilet for longer trips. Safety equipment like life jackets, flares, and a marine radio ensure passengers are protected. With its versatile design and ample amenities, this vessel is well-suited for a variety of fishing charters targeting both inshore and offshore species.

Weather when the photo was taken

Carolina Charters

Follow Us

FacebookInstagram

Navigate

Home

Trips & Rates

Gallery

Reviews

Fishing Reports

Target Species

Meet the Captain

FAQ

Contact Us

FEATURED

THINGS TO DO

Inshore Catch

Inshore Fun

Inshore Reels

Wilmington Fishing Charters

 Carolina Charters is dedicated to delivering memorable, enjoyable fishing trips while ensuring a friendly and professional atmosphere.

More about Carolina Charters

© Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.

Powered by Guidesly

Privacy Policy

Sitemap