Community Highlights: Meet Stewart Merritt of Salt Air Ventures

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stewart Merritt.

Hi Stewart, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story. 
I have been fishing and hunting from my very early years (5) and always had a passion for the outdoors. Began working as a mate on larger Sportfishing boats around 16 years old in Wilmington. I did all sorts of different fishing methods, both commercial and recreational fishing. In my early twenties became what I’d call a “professional” mate traveling around the globe chasing marlins primarily. Got my captain’s license in 2010. Started Salt Air Ventures, hunting and fishing charters, based in Morehead City, NC in 2013.  

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect? 
Being the owner/operator of your own business has many highs and lows. They’re always the concern about “Will the business interest be there next year”. The state of the economy has a huge effect on the charter business. For example, the last couple of years we’ve faced extremely high fuel costs which are a huge part of overhead. The influx of new captains into the charter world is a big challenge as well. The Charter business is saturated with “new” captains, making it more challenging to operate as we once did.  

We’ve been impressed with Salt Air Ventures, Inc, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others? 
Salt Air Ventures, inc. is based out of Morehead City, NC, as a fishing and hunting charter business. Fishing is done on a 30’ privateer named the Miss E.  

1/2-day and full-day charters are available April through late November. There are a number of species of fish targeted mainly dependent on the type of charter: Spanish mackerel, red drum, grouper, triggerfish, snappers, mahi mahi, Cobia, and flounder to name a few.  

The duck hunting is done mainly on the core sound in eastern Carteret County. Groups hunt primarily from duck blinds,  

Mainly focusing on diving ducks that winter in the area.  

I am the sole owner and operator of the business. I try to get to know all the people who I take hunting and fishing.  

I’ve been very fortunate to establish myself and have many years of good customers who make yearly trips to come fishing or hunting.  

What do you like and dislike about the city? 
Morehead City, NC, has a great small-town feel. It’s home to some of the best hunting and fishing the state has to offer. It’s a great place to raise a family and enjoy the outdoors. 

Pricing:

• 1/2 day charters $550
• Full-day charters $1250
• Gulf Stream charter $1650
• Duck Hunt $200/ person

Contact Info:

• Website: www.saltairventures.com
• Instagram: @saltairventures
• Facebook: @Salt Air Ventures