Reel Women: How a Ladies-Only Fishing Trip Turned Strangers into Sisters

There’s something special about fishing—it has a way of bringing people together, forging connections that go beyond the catch. But organizing an all-female fishing trip? That was an adventure in itself. What started as an idea soon became a reality as I pulled together six women from different backgrounds, all connected through the love of fishing and the great outdoors. Our trip out of Oregon Inlet aboard Moana Sportfishing with Capt. Brad and mate Cleat turned out to be more than just a day on the water—it was the beginning of lasting friendships and an unforgettable experience.

The Planning: Pulling It All Together When the idea of a ladies-only offshore fishing trip first crossed my mind, I knew it wouldn’t be easy to coordinate. Between aligning schedules, booking accommodations, and securing a top-tier charter, there were plenty of moving pieces. I started by rallying like-minded women online—some I had interacted with before, others I had never met.

The first step was locking in the charter. Oregon Inlet Fishing Center is known for its incredible offshore action, and I knew Moana Sportfishing was the perfect choice. Capt. Brad’s experience and Cleat’s expertise as a mate would ensure we had not just a fun trip, but also a successful one.

Next came the accommodations. Finding an Airbnb that could comfortably host six women (most of whom were strangers to each other) was key. I wanted a space where we could unwind, swap stories, and truly connect. After hours of scrolling and coordinating, I secured the perfect spot—a cozy townhome in Pirate's Cove marina, complete with a deck for post-trip debriefs over cold drinks.

The Trip: From Strangers to Friends The morning of our trip, excitement buzzed through the air as we met at the dock. Some of us had only spoken online, yet within minutes, laughter and camaraderie took over any initial awkwardness.

As Moana cut through the waves, Capt. Brad and Cleat worked their magic, setting us up for a day of serious fishing. The ocean delivered—tuna, mahi, and even a wahoo made their way into our spread. But more than the thrill of the fight, it was the shared moments that stood out. The cheering, the teamwork, the pure joy of watching each other succeed—it was unlike any fishing trip I had been on before.

There were moments of challenge, too—seas that tested our stamina, tangles that tested our patience—but with every obstacle, we worked together, proving that this group of women was tougher than any offshore conditions.

The Aftermath: Bonds That Last By the time we pulled back into the marina, we weren’t just a group of women who had gone fishing together—we were a team, a sisterhood. Back at the marina, we relived the day’s highlights, and shared stories that had nothing to do with fishing but everything to do with life.

What started as a simple idea had evolved into something bigger. Months later, our group chat is still active—plans for future trips are already in the works, and the friendships built that day continue to grow. This trip was proof that fishing isn’t just about the catch; it’s about the people you share it with.

Organizing a ladies-only fishing trip was an ambitious undertaking, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The ocean has a way of breaking down barriers, and when you add six adventurous women to the mix, the result is something truly special. For any women out there considering a trip like this—do it. You never know how a single day on the water might change your life, or the lifelong friendships it might bring your way.

Tight lines and strong bonds—until next time!