Make-Up Charters in Outer Banks, NC

Make-Up Charter Definition

A make-up charter is a shared fishing trip where individuals or small groups are paired together aboard a single charter vessel. Rather than booking an entire boat on your own, you join other anglers you have not previously met to split the total cost of the trip evenly. It is a popular option for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who wants a full offshore or nearshore fishing experience without the expense of a private charter.

Important Make-Up Charter Info – Please Read Carefully

To register, you may call (252) 441-6301 ext. 1, visit the Oregon Inlet booking desk, or complete the form below. Please note that submitting a request does not guarantee a trip, as availability depends on sufficient participation, boat availability, and weather conditions. If you are interested in a make-up charter, simply fill out the form and a reservationist will contact you once enough participants are secured and a vessel becomes available. At that time, we will confirm your spot and collect payment information for the following day’s trip.

Make-up charter requests may only be submitted within fourteen (14) days of your desired trip date, and trips are typically finalized within 24 hours of departure. All charters are limited to six passengers in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations. By signing up, you agree to pay your share of a six-person charter, although groups of four or five may be accommodated if all participants agree to split the total cost evenly.

Please be aware that once a make-up charter is confirmed, refunds are only issued if the trip is canceled by the captain or the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center due to weather, mechanical issues, or participant changes. Boats are assigned on a rotational basis, and specific vessel requests cannot be accommodated. By submitting your request, you acknowledge and agree to abide by Oregon Inlet Fishing Center’s TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

Why Choose a Make-Up Charter?

Make-up charters are a smart, affordable option for anglers of all experience levels. Here is what you can expect when you book through Oregon Inlet Fishing Center:

  • Significant cost savings – Share the charter rate with up to five other passengers and pay only your portion of the trip.
  • No prior fishing experience required – Our captains and mates welcome beginners and experienced anglers alike, providing guidance and hands-on assistance throughout the day.
  • Access to the same fleet – You fish aboard the same professionally maintained vessels used for private charters, with no difference in equipment or service quality.
  • Multiple trip types available – Choose from offshore all-day trips or nearshore half-day and full-day options depending on your schedule and target species.
  • Flexible date ranges – Submit availability for a range of dates to increase your chances of getting matched with other participants and getting out on the water.
  • Built-in camaraderie – Many guests find that sharing a charter with other fishing enthusiasts makes for a more memorable and enjoyable experience on the water.
  • Expert local knowledge – Oregon Inlet captains have fished these waters for years and know exactly where to find the best action for the time of year and conditions.

What to Bring on Your Make-Up Charter

Preparation makes a big difference in your comfort and enjoyment on the water. Here is a quick guide to help you get ready for your trip:

Oregon Inlet Fishing Center provides all necessary fishing equipment, bait, and tackle. You do not need to bring rods, reels, or terminal gear. However, there are a few personal items that will make your day much more enjoyable. Dress in layers, as mornings on the water can be cool even in summer. Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat are essentials. Non-marking, non-slip footwear is required on all vessels.

You are welcome to bring food and beverages aboard. A small soft-sided cooler works well for keeping drinks cold. Many guests bring sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water for longer offshore trips. Motion sickness medication is a good idea if you are prone to seasickness, and it is best taken the night before or the morning of your departure. Leave valuables at home, and make sure any electronics or personal items are stored in a waterproof bag or case.

Make-Up Charter Request Form

Party Contact Information

Name(Required)

Trip Information

Please enter a number from 1 to 6.

Preferred Fishing Date or Date Range

Please choose the date(s) you are available for a makeup charter. If you can only fish on one date please select the same date for start and end. NOTE: A make-up charter cannot be applied for more than fourteen (14) days in advance of a trip.
Cancellation Policy(Required)

Frequently Asked Questions About Make-Up Charters

How does a make-up charter differ from a private charter?

A private charter means your group has exclusive use of the entire vessel for the day. A make-up charter fills remaining spots on a trip by pairing smaller groups or individual anglers together, allowing everyone to split the total cost. The fishing experience and quality of service are the same on both types of trips.

How will I know if my make-up charter request has been confirmed?

Once enough participants are secured and a vessel is available for your requested date, a reservationist from Oregon Inlet Fishing Center will contact you directly by phone or email. Confirmation typically happens within 24 hours of the scheduled departure, so it is important to stay reachable as your desired dates approach.

What happens if the trip is canceled due to weather?

If your confirmed charter is canceled by the captain or Oregon Inlet Fishing Center due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, a full refund will be issued. Cancellations initiated by the participant after confirmation are subject to the terms outlined in the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center cancellation policy.

Can I request a specific boat or captain?

Vessel and captain assignments are made on a rotational basis among the Oregon Inlet fleet, and specific requests cannot be accommodated for make-up charters. Every boat in our fleet is professionally maintained and captained by experienced, licensed professionals, so you can feel confident regardless of which vessel you are assigned.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of people required for a make-up charter to go out?

All charters are capped at six passengers per U.S. Coast Guard regulations. There is no fixed minimum, but a trip will typically only be confirmed once enough participants are available to make the shared cost reasonable for everyone. In some cases, a group of four or five may agree to split the total charter rate evenly and proceed with fewer than six passengers.