Captain Rod Bierstedt: The Code of Coastal Fishing in North Carolina

 Coastal Currents Feature: The Man, The Myth, The Rod

If Poseidon had a Southern cousin, he’d be wearing Costa shades, running a Freeman 37 with quad 300s, and reminding you not to spool braid on a trolling reel. That cousin has a name: Captain Rod Bierstedt.

He doesn’t chase fish—he predicts them. After more than 40 years fishing off the coasts of Carolina Beach, Wrightsville Beach, and Topsail Island, Captain Rod has built a legacy of deep knowledge, salty grit, and a thoughtful, no-fluff approach to coastal fishing. His charter service, Pura Vida Excursions, offers one of the top fishing experiences in the region—built on skill, intuition, and a serious respect for the water.

In this Coastal Currents spotlight, we’re diving into Rod's experience, his advice for new anglers, and what makes Pura Vida more than just a boat ride.

Local Legend Status: Who is Captain Rod?

Rod didn’t grow up here—but the Carolina coast adopted him fast. After relocating decades ago, four veteran charter captains took him under their wing. What followed was a lifetime of learning, observing, and mastering the rhythms of this fishery.

“I was a very astute student. I soaked it up. And I still learn something new every day.”

His number one rule?

“Don’t be the Lone Ranger. Find a mentor who fishes more days than you do brunch.”

Rod’s humility and dedication earned him respect across the North Carolina fishing community. Many of his early mentors remain close friends and collaborators to this day. He’s part of a tightly connected network of anglers, captains, and tackle shops that keep the local fishing scene thriving.

Gear Talk: Smart, Not Overbuilt

Rod is clear: success doesn’t come from showing off the priciest setup.

“You don’t need 80-pound tackle on a 25-foot boat. I’ve landed 400-pound marlin on 40-pound test.”

His philosophy? Use gear that makes sense for what you’re doing. Ask questions. Shop local. Skip the gimmicks. If you’re unsure, Rod—and the rest of the local fishing community—are more than willing to point you in the right direction.

What’s Going On Out There?

Fishing the North Carolina coast isn’t about chasing GPS numbers—it’s about reading the water.

Rod and his fellow captains track water temperatures, current breaks, bait concentrations, and satellite imagery to follow fish movements. It's this kind of collaboration and regional know-how that separates the serious anglers from the weekend warriors.

Meet Your Ride: The Pura Vida Experience

Rod and his son Barry co-captain Pura Vida Excursions, running one of the most advanced charter boats in the state—a 2024 Freeman 37 with quad Yamaha 300s. It’s fast, stable, and fully equipped for serious fishing.

What’s onboard?

  • Shimano reels and custom rods
  • FLIR night vision
  • Spot-lock trolling motor for precision anchoring
  • High-capacity coolers and the tools to fill them

“You don’t need a license. You don’t need gear. Just bring good energy, sunscreen, sunglasses, and your food in a cloth bag. We’ve got the rest.”

Rod’s Spring 2025 Fishing Report

Here’s what’s hot right now on the water:

🎣 Atlantic Bonito

“Best season I’ve seen in 40 years. Eat them fresh. Never freeze bonito.”

🎣 Spanish & King Mackerel

“The king bite’s nuts right now. Big fish close to shore.”

🎣 Mahi & Tuna

“Go deep—600 feet. Follow the weed lines. Filament eddy = fish on.”

🎣 Black Sea Bass & Grouper

“Grouper season’s here. We’ve already been releasing some tanks.”

Want to Fish with Rod?

Rod wants you to succeed on the water—but timing is everything.

“Reach out the day before your trip. I’ll tell you what’s biting, what to bring, and how to make the most of your time.”

He’s part of a regional brain trust of captains and anglers stretching from Morehead City to Myrtle Beach—and if you come in humble and ready to learn, you’re in for a world-class day.

📱 Call or text Rod directly at: 910.352.2719
💬 Connect on Facebook: Captain Rod Bierstedt
Official Website: https://www.puravidaexcursions.com

Book Your Adventure

Whether you’re:

  • A new homeowner embracing the coastal lifestyle
  • A vacationer looking for an authentic saltwater experience
  • Or a seasoned local wanting to fish with the best

Pura Vida Excursions is your ticket to an unforgettable offshore adventure.

🚫 No stress
🎣 No license required
🍌 No bananas allowed

Just top-tier gear, deep local knowledge, and one of the most respected captains on the Carolina coast.

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