Epic Neuse River Old Drum Fishing | Morehead City

Reel In Monster Reds on the Neuse River

Get ready for some serious rod-bending action on the Neuse River with Captain Jeffrey Gaskill. This ain't your average fishing trip - we're talking about battling massive old drum using light tackle in one of North Carolina's prime redfish hotspots. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, Captain Jeffrey's local know-how and patient guidance will put you on the fish and have you hollering with excitement as you feel that first big pull.

What's the Deal with Pop and Cork?

Pop and cork fishing is like the secret sauce for hooking into monster reds on the Neuse. We'll be working the banks and shoals where these bruisers like to hang out, using a rig that's designed to make a ruckus on the surface. That popping noise drives the old drum crazy - it's like ringing the dinner bell. When a big red decides to crash the party, hold on tight! These fish can top 40 pounds, and on light spinning gear, you're in for one heck of a fight.

Gearing Up for Drum

Leave your heavy gear at home for this trip. We're talking light spinning rods paired with reels spooled with 10-15 pound test line. The pop-cork rig consists of a weighted float, some beads for extra noise, and a leader with a circle hook. We'll bait up with fresh mullet or menhaden - old drum can't resist 'em. Captain Jeffrey will show you the ropes on how to work the rig just right. It's all about that pop-pause rhythm that drives the fish wild.

Why Anglers Can't Get Enough

There's something special about fishing the Neuse that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the heart-stopping moment when a huge red slams your bait. Or perhaps it's the peaceful scenery as we cruise along, searching for that perfect spot. Whatever it is, Captain Jeffrey's trips have a way of turning first-timers into regulars. His easy-going nature and wealth of local knowledge make for a day on the water you won't soon forget.

The Old Drum Lowdown

Old drum, also known as bull reds or simply "big uglies" to some anglers, are the heavyweight champs of the red drum world. These fish have been around the block a few times - we're talking 10+ years old and often pushing 40 inches or more. They've got a distinctive spot near their tail, but honestly, you'll be too busy holding on for dear life to notice when you hook into one.

What makes targeting old drum so exciting is their sheer power and stamina. When one of these bruisers decides your bait looks tasty, be ready for a knock-down, drag-screaming fight that can last 20 minutes or more. They love to use their broad sides to leverage against your line, and they've got a knack for finding every snag and obstruction in the river.

The best time to target these giants is usually from late summer through fall when they gather in the Neuse to spawn. But Captain Jeffrey knows how to find them year-round, adapting tactics to match their seasonal patterns. Whether they're cruising the shallows or hunkered down in deeper holes, he'll put you on the fish.

Time to Lock In Your Trip

Listen, if you're itching for a fishing experience that'll have you grinning from ear to ear and arms sore from reeling, this is it. Captain Jeffrey's Neuse River pop and cork trips are the real deal. With room for up to four anglers, it's perfect for a day out with buddies or the family. Just remember to bring your A-game, because these old drum don't mess around. Book your spot now, and get ready to make some serious fishing memories on the Neuse!