I recently had the honor of embarking on a truly remarkable offshore fishing expedition with Top Shelf Sport Fishing, and I’m still overflowing with gratitude and excitement from the unforgettable adventure! This trip held special significance as it marked my retirement from the Marine Corps, and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect way to celebrate this milestone.

From the moment we stepped aboard the 50’ Hatters, it was clear that this was going to be a day filled with cherished memories. The dedication of Captain Jon and his passion for fishing in the Atlantic Ocean added an extra layer of significance to the experience. The luxurious interior of the yacht, adorned with comfortable sofas and modern amenities, provided the ideal setting for a day of camaraderie and relaxation.

Accompanied by my dad and brothers, the trip took on a deeper level of meaning as we shared in this special moment together. As the sun began to rise, we set off with a sense of anticipation and excitement. Captain Jon and the incredible first mate, Cody, welcomed us with open arms, making us feel like we were among friends from the start. Cody’s expert guidance throughout the fishing process was truly exceptional, and his patient assistance helped us reel in an impressive array of fish, including Cobia, Amberjack, Barracuda, Mackerel, and more. His genuine enthusiasm and dedication to ensuring we had an incredible time made the experience even more meaningful.

Despite the label of a “slow day,” our fishing adventure was nothing short of spectacular. The non-stop action and the variety of fish we caught had us feeling like we were in the heart of a fishing paradise. To learn that we might have even outdone the main boat in terms of the catch filled us with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

The charter’s attentiveness to our preferences and desires was truly heartwarming. Whether it was selecting the best fishing spots or trying out different techniques, the crew’s flexibility and care made the day feel truly personalized.

In conclusion, my retirement celebration with Top Shelf Sport Fishing was a heartwarming and unforgettable experience. Captain Jon’s professionalism, Cody’s masterful assistance, the luxurious amenities, and the personalized approach combined to create a day that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. If you’re seeking a meaningful and exhilarating fishing adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend booking a charter with Top Shelf Sport Fishing. A heartfelt thank you to Captain Jon, Cody, and the entire team for creating a day that my dad, brothers, and I will treasure for a lifetime!

From start to finish, my family and I were treated to a day of unparalleled sport fishing with Top Shelf Sport Fishing, a veteran-owned and operated fishing charter based in the heart of Atlantic Beach, NC.  We embarked on this adventure to celebrate my father’s 72nd birthday, and it was nothing short of fantastic.

As soon as we set foot on the 50’ Hatters, we were welcomed by the brilliant team led by Captain Jon Wilson and First Mate Cody. The boat was superbly equipped, not only for a serious fishing expedition but also for comfort, featuring soft sofas, clean toilets, a TV, and air conditioning. The team’s commitment to safety was evident, holding both first-aid and AED certifications

Our expedition was a deep-sea fishing trip, and let me assure you, it exceeded every expectation. Captain Jon, being an expert in navigating the Atlantic Ocean, and First Mate Cody showcased their extensive knowledge and skills, guiding us seamlessly throughout our journey and enabling us to bring in a commendable catch. Their excellent communication made the day enjoyable and immensely rewarding. They were quick to share tips and tricks, making the whole experience truly engaging.

In total, we caught six Wahoos, four Barracudas, three Black Fin Tunas, and a majestic Yellow Fin Tuna, a testament to the rich waters of the Atlantic and the expertise of Captain Jon and Cody. What truly sets Top Shelf Sport Fishing apart is not just their ability to deliver an amazing fishing experience, but also their attention to detail. After our successful day, the Captain Stacy Fishing Center cleaned our catch for us at a nominal cost of $.80 per lb and they only accepted cash for fish cleaning, just as a heads up.

The highlight, undoubtedly, was the joy reflected in my father’s eyes on his special day. There’s a certain magic to the ocean that Top Shelf Sport Fishing, Captain Jon, and First Mate Cody seemed to harness to make our day truly memorable. Their dedication to go above and beyond to ensure a satisfying fishing experience is what makes them a true gem in the realm of sport fishing.

We wholeheartedly recommend Top Shelf Sport Fishing to anyone looking to create unforgettable memories and embrace the thrill of deep-sea fishing. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to guest satisfaction are unrivaled. So pack your food, drinks, and sun protection, and prepare for a top-shelf experience! Five stars aren’t enough to express the excellent adventure that awaits aboard the Top Shelf Sport Fishing.

Very professionally run boat, with Cody as one of the best first mates I’ve ever had. He and Captain Jon have their communication nailed, and everyone on the trip was thrilled to be out on the water with them. Landed a ton of Spanish mackerel and had a shot at a good size King that came off the line. I’m hoping we can do a Gulf Stream billfish hunt with them next year!

Great experience.  Clean, solid boat.  Lots of room for all 6 of us.  Captain Jon & Cody were great.  Fish were hit and miss but we made the best of it.  Next year, we’ll probably do the 1/2 day gulf stream.  But this was our first time so we stayed in-shore.  Overall, great guys, great boat.  Will definitely be back to Top Shelf.