There's nothing quite like the thrill of fishing on a river that feels as alive as you are. When David invited me out on his brand-new Calcutta catamaran, I was ready for a day filled with laughter, a splash of water, and perhaps a little too much sun. Let’s just say that this was no ordinary fishing trip.

As we cruised along the Wilmington River, the catamaran proved itself a champion of stability—no swaying, no sudden jerks—just a gentle glide over the water, like a hippo in a hammock. David’s excitement was infectious, as we both eagerly anticipated the day’s catches.

Within no time, we found ourselves battling a school of redfish. These fish don’t play nice, and I have to admit, they put up quite the fight. Each catch felt like a personal victory, especially when we hit our two limits. It’s a strange thrill, wrestling with something that’s trying to swim away from you. It was like tug-of-war with a wet noodle—except the noodle was much heavier and significantly less pliable.

Then came the surprise guests of the day—a bonnethead shark and a stingray. Because why just fish when you can collect the entire marine-life set? I half-expected a dolphin to pop up and ask for a selfie. These catches were a reminder that summer was knocking on our doors, bringing its spiky, slippery, and slightly intimidating friends.

Catching a shark might sound exhilarating (and it is), but there’s comfort in knowing not every trip ends with you hauling in a massive deep-sea creature. A stingray flapping about? That just adds to the absurdity. There’s something humorously surreal about “Hey, I went fishing and caught something that belongs in a low-budget horror film.”

Fishing here isn’t just about the catch; it’s about the stories you create. Each tug on the line feels like a conversation with the universe—sometimes dramatic, sometimes downright hilarious. If you find yourself on the Wilmington River, appreciate the quirky dynamics of nature and fellow anglers. Watch for pelicans eyeing your bait or the occasional alligator curious about your menu.

Gear Essentials for Your Next River Run

To help readers get outfitted for their own riverborne tales, here's a curated list of high-value items from your Wander' Bout Shop that align perfectly with river fishing:

• Destron Braided Fishing Line — Abrasion‑Resistant: A durable, high-strength line that holds up against sharp teeth and rough river environments—perfect for battling redfish and sharks.

• Collapsible Live Bait Bucket with Aerator: Keeps bait healthy and lively, ensuring better hookups and less hassle when you're miles from shore.

• Waterproof 3700 Stowaway Tackle Box: Compact and watertight—ideal for organizing your terminal tackle and protecting it from unexpected splashes or the occasional dunk.

Read More Angling Adventures

• Tangled lines? Check out our Tangled Redfish guide for tips on untangling messes and making memories.

• Craving more inshore excitement? Dive into Shark Fishing at Tybee Island Pier for pier-side thrills.

• For a hidden-gem river adventure, revisit Fishing Groves Creek & Skidaway River.

A tip for those thinking of heading out: sunscreen is your best friend. The sun doesn’t care if you’ve drunk enough water—lather up, reapply, and wear a hat.

In the end, we didn’t just catch fish; we caught memories—moments that remind us to embrace life’s absurdities. If you’re ever on the Wilmington River with a stable boat and good friends, be ready for anything. A day of fishing isn’t just about what’s on the line; it’s about the stories you bring back to shore.

Tight lines! 🎣

Ready to plan your own Wilmington River adventure? 📩 Contact us for custom trip details and expert guidance at letsgowanderbout.com/contact-2, or 🎣 Book online right now to secure your spot on one of our signature river runs at letsgowanderbout.com/book-online. After your trip, don’t forget to 🚤 Share your adventure by submitting photos and stories at letsgowanderbout.com/share-your-adventure—we love featuring reader submissions on our site! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes clips, pro tips, and the latest Wander ’Bout news. Tight lines, and we’ll see you on the water!

Plan Your Own Wilmington River Adventure

If today's tale has you itching to cast a line of your own, why not explore guided trips with ease? You can search, compare, and book freshwater and saltwater charters worldwide via FishingBooker (affiliate link):

https://fishingbooker.com/#6868577d4e08e

Don't go without checking our experience: