Outer Banks Shrimping Charters
Have you ever caught your own shrimp? While rod-and-reel fishing charters are offered, shrimping is an activity that many people on the Outer Banks have never experienced. And that’s a shame because shrimping is a ton of fun for all ages!
Capt. Barry Sweitzer offers 4-hour charters for up to 6 passengers on his boat, the 40’ Hallie M, which is based at Wanchese Marina. A shrimping or crabbing charter works a little differently than a fishing charter. For shrimping and crabbing, the captain and mate trawl a huge net through the sounds around Roanoke Island, then haul the net on board the boat. With the help of the mate, the passengers put on the gloves and sort through the catch to harvest shrimp, fish and crabs. Anything of legal size goes to the passengers to take home and eat! These hands-on trips keep kids engaged and having fun while they learn about the marine ecosystem and bring home something for dinner.
The trip offers more than harvesting seafood. In the cruise through the sounds, you’ll see the activity of Wanchese Harbor, a real working seafood harbor, plus scenery like soundside islands, Bodie Island Lighthouse and dolphins. You’ll see a variety of wildlife, such as osprey, herons, egrets and brown pelicans. The 2-hour afternoon charter is a good choice for this!
Making Outer Banks Shrimping Charters Easy
Capt. Sweitzer makes sure his shrimping charters are convenient and comfortable. A commercial fisherman since 1980 and a USCG licensed captain since 1998, has the on-the-water experience to keep his passengers safe. His boat, Hallie M, is a 40’ custom-built fishing boat powered by a reliable Cummins diesel engine and equipped with a full electronics package and top-of-the-line safety gear and boating equipment. A shaded deck and marine toilet ensure passengers’ comfort.
Hallie M Charters offers morning, midday and afternoon charters Monday through Friday from May 15th through October. Please check the booking page for specific availability. Each charter can take up to 6 passengers. Fishing licenses, fishing equipment, gloves, ice and water are provided. You’ll need to bring snacks, drinks, sun protection, nonslip shoes, a cooler for your catch and a tip for the mate. Reservations with a deposit must be made in advance, and the balance of payment is due at the completion of the trip. If the captain has to cancel the trip due to weather conditions, he will offer to rebook the trip or refund the deposit.
