Spend a full day targeting trophy cobia on a private 10-hour charter off the coast of Manteo, North Carolina. Perfect for anglers eager to compete for the biggest catch while enjoying stunning ocean views.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness recommended to handle fishing gear and stand for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
Manteo and Roanoke Island hold rich maritime history dating back to the early English settlements of the 1580s.
Conservation
Fistful Sportfishing follows sustainable fishing practices and local regulations to protect cobia populations and marine ecosystems.
Fistful Sportfishing
Spend a full day targeting trophy cobia on a private 10-hour charter off the coast of Manteo, North Carolina. Perfect for anglers eager to compete for the biggest catch while enjoying stunning ocean views.
Fistful Sportfishing operates out of Manteo, North Carolina, offering specialized deep-sea and near-shore fishing charters focused on targeted species and full-day adventures. The company runs two primary trips: a 10-hour Full Day Cobia Charter available seasonally in May and June that targets cobia near shore, and a 10-hour Full Day Offshore Charter that departs at 5 AM and travels approximately 35 miles into the Gulf Stream to pursue blue marlin, tuna, and sharks. Fistful Sportfishing provides experienced local captains familiar with Pamlico Sound, Roanoke Island waters, and offshore Gulf Stream patterns, emphasizing safety, professional gear, and clear communication before and during each trip.
Boats are equipped for full-day comfort and long runs offshore, and itineraries include all standard safety equipment and fishing tackle suited to the targeted species. Reservations are recommended due to limited seasonal availability for the cobia charter and the early departure schedule for offshore trips. Anglers of varied skill levels can expect guided instruction, species-specific techniques, and a focus on sustainable fishing practices that follow North Carolina regulations. Customer preparation information covers meeting location in Manteo, recommended clothing, food and drink, and weather contingency plans. Trip confirmations include captain contact info, pre-trip instructions, and weather updates before departure. Fistful Sportfishing’s local knowledge and dedicated charters deliver purposeful fishing experiences for anglers seeking cobia in spring or big-game species offshore. The operation’s regional expertise and clearly defined trip formats make it a reliable choice for anglers traveling to the Outer Banks seeking productive full-day fishing excursions.
Location
Manteo, NC
Base of operations on Roanoke Island
Trip Length
10 hours
Full-day charters for anglers
Offshore Range
35 miles
Runs into the Gulf Stream
Seasonal Cobia
May–June
Cobia trips available in spring
Secure a date for the Full Day Cobia Charter or Full Day Offshore Charter — availability is limited, especially in May and June. Book early to lock in the 5 AM offshore departure or seasonal cobia runs.
Bring Sun Protection
The open water means extended sun exposure—wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay protected.
Dress in Layers
Mornings and evenings on the water can be cool—wear layers to adjust comfortably throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the long 10-hour trip, especially in warm weather.
Motion Sickness Prevention
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative measures before boarding to ensure an enjoyable trip.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduce glare from the water and improve visibility when spotting fish or navigating.
summer
Fishing Gloves
Protect your hands during reel handling and fish release, especially when targeting cobia.
spring
Waterproof Jacket
Keep dry from sea spray and unexpected weather changes during the trip.
spring
Non-slip Boat Shoes
Ensure safety and comfort on the boat deck during fishing and movement.