RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington 

5.0
(27 reviews)
•
vob.svg 
Veteran Owned
 8224+CG Cape Fear, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States–

RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington 

Wilmington, NC, United States
–
20 ft
2
5.0
(27 reviews)

If you're ready to get hooked on fishing in Wilmington, look no further than RiverBass Guide Service for ideal, year-round fishing conditions on Wilmington's popular power plant lake — Sutton Lake, an 1,100-acre cooling reservoir for Duke Energy's L.V. Sutton Power Plant near Wilmington that remains warm through the winter, with February water temperatures usually in the 70s or low 80s, which gives a summertime feel with fish active in the warm water — because the waters tend to be warmer than usual thanks to the hot water discharge.

You’ll target aggressive Largemouth Bass that stay active 12 months a year by light tackle or more specialized techniques, aboard a 20' Ranger Z520R bass boat with room for 2 passengers and everything you need for a productive day, with rods, reels and lures provided by Capt. Shawn, young ones welcome for a family day out (just ask if you need a child-sized life vest on board and bring snacks), you will need a local fishing license, plus a hat, sunglasses and sunblock (non-spray), water is included free of charge, alcohol is allowed in moderation with no hard liquor or glass bottles.

Get in touch with Captain Shawn below and start planning your trip today! (RiverBass LLC, DBA RiverBass Guide Service)

If you're ready to get hooked on fishing in Wilmington, look no further than RiverBass Guide Service for ideal, year-round fishing conditions on Wilmington's popular power plant lake — Sutton Lake, an 1,100-acre cooling reservoir for Duke Energy's L.V. Sutton Power Plant near Wilmington that remains warm through the winter, with February water temperatures usually in the 70s or low 80s, which gives a summertime feel with fish active in the warm water — because the waters tend to be warmer than usual thanks to the hot water discharge.

You’ll target aggressive Largemouth Bass that stay active 12 months a year by light tackle or more specialized techniques, aboard a 20' Ranger Z520R bass boat with room for 2 passengers and everything you need for a productive day, with rods, reels and lures provided by Capt. Shawn, young ones welcome for a family day out (just ask if you need a child-sized life vest on board and bring snacks), you will need a local fishing license, plus a hat, sunglasses and sunblock (non-spray), water is included free of charge, alcohol is allowed in moderation with no hard liquor or glass bottles.

Get in touch with Captain Shawn below and start planning your trip today! (RiverBass LLC, DBA RiverBass Guide Service)

Shawn Keene
Captain
Shawn Keene
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
4 Hour–Forward Facing Sonar Lessons
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 11:30 AM)
Bass (Largemouth)
US $400
Entire boat: 2 people
5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
US $400
Entire boat: 2 people
8 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Largemouth)
US $650
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
27 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (83)

Reviews (27)

  • Jeffrey Kotzan
    Jeffrey Kotzan
    Repeat angler
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2022
    28 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Lake Sutton Bass

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on September 13, 2026 • 2 adults

    5 hour bass fishing trip starting at 7am. The day was beautiful…..forecast called for rain but we didn’t see a drop! The first hour was slow and we thought that might mean a slow day. But Captain Shawn figured out that the bass were holed up in shallow water near the shore. We started casting to the shallows and it was on! We caught at least 30 bass ranging from 1- 5 pounds. The bass were extra fiesty…….when we hooked the one pounders we thought we were hooked into a much bigger fish! My 16 yo son was with us and Captain Shawn takes extra time with him and he learns new techniques every time! If you are looking for a family friendly fishing charter you have to try RiverBass guide service with Captain Shawn Keene!

  • Marlo Yeager
    Marlo Yeager
    us
    Alaska, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Amazing Trip!

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on October 12, 2026 • 2 adults

    I decided to take my dad out on a bass fishing charter while he was visiting and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience! The boat is extremely well kept and a comfortable ride. Shawn knew all the places to go for catching fish, is extremely knowledgeable, and moved us around the lake to experience different spots. We had beautiful weather, caught lots of fish and just had an amazing overall experience. We definitely would recommend him to anyone who wants a great personal experience!

  • Katherine Dodson
    Katherine Dodson
    us
    Ohio, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    My Teen Anglers Had A+ Time

    4 Hour–Forward Facing Sonar Lessons - 10:30 AM on October 11, 2026 • 2 adults

    Shawn took my two sons- ages 14 & 16- out for a forward facing sonar instructional trip. My boys compete in bass fishing tournaments and wanted to get some professional tips and education on using their forward facing sonar. They loved the trip with Shawn. He was cool, answered all their questions (and I know they had a lot) and they had a great time! Shawn was vey personable and trustworthy. He communicated with me a lot before the trip- and he was easy to talk with and ask questions. 100% recommend!

  • Jeffrey Kotzan
    Jeffrey Kotzan
    Repeat angler
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2022
    28 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Another Great Day!

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on May 23, 2026 • 2 adults

    6 hour bass fishing trip at Sutton Lake! Bass were biting like crazy! We caught over 20 bass and had a great time…..at one point my son and I were both hooked up with identical 3lb fish! Captain Shawn has a safe and fast bass boat and knows where the fish are hiding. The Captain is very knowledgeable and patient and very family friendly! He teaches my son new techniques on every trip……..Highly recommend Captain Shawn Keene and RiverBass guide service.

  • Brandon Benegasi
    Brandon Benegasi
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Awesome day of fishing with Captain Shawn!

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on May 16, 2026 • 2 adults

    My 70 year old father and I originally booked a trip with Captain Shawn back in April. Unfortunately due to weather and unforeseen circumstances the trip had to be rescheduled a couple of times. Captain Shawn was extremely communicative, honest and outgoing throughout the entire process. When the stars aligned and we finally made it out on the water we had an awesome day. There must have been 30 fish caught between us in 6 hours of fishing. The Captain’s boat and gear are top notch and he knows the water like the back of his hand. We couldn't be happier and hope to schedule another trip with him out on the Neuse River at some point. Thank you Captain Shawn!

  • Jeffrey Kotzan
    Jeffrey Kotzan
    Repeat angler
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2022
    28 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    New Personal Best!

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on April 4, 2026 • 2 adults

    Half day morning on Lake Sutton with Captain Shawn of RiverBass guide service……What a day! Beautiful weather! We hauled in a beautiful 24 inch 6.7 pound largemouth bass. The biggest I’ve ever seen in person! My son was very exited! We are having a replica mount made. We always have fun with Captain Shawn. We caught plenty of bass in the 1-3 pound range which was a blast! Do yourself a favor and fish Sutton lake with RiverBass Guide service and Captain Shawn!

  • Jeffrey Kotzan
    Jeffrey Kotzan
    Repeat angler
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2022
    28 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    More bass!

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on March 15, 2026 • 2 adults

    Morning 6 hour bass fishing trip on Sutton Lake! It was supposed to rain but held off until we got back to the dock! We all caught multiple bass of various sizes! largest was around 2-3 pounds. Captain Shawn always shows my son and I a great time with lots of fun stories. My son got to fish with a baitcaster which he loved! The boat is fast, comfortable and made for catching bass! Highly recommended!

  • Jason Vangrouw
    Jason Vangrouw
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    if you love bass fishing this is a must try

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on October 3, 2026 • 2 adults

    Captain Sean was excellent knew the lake like the back of his hand very knowledgeable overall just a great experience within 10 minutes of getting off my first trip already booked the second one 

  • Will Daugherty
    Will Daugherty
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Relaxed and productive

    Day Trip (Sutton) - 1:45 PM on March 14, 2026 • 2 adults

    Went with a friend and Shawn was great. He provided instruction when needed, definitely had the right technique figured out for the lake. We fished after a tournament had taken place that same day, and still had a great day of catching. In fact, I don't recall seeing other boats catching anything, but we caught fish all day. I look forward to booking again.

  • Jeffrey Kotzan
    Jeffrey Kotzan
    Repeat angler
    us
    North Carolina, US
    Member since 2022
    28 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Bass!

    5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton on November 16, 2025 • 2 adults

    booked 4 hour trip with Captain Shawn Keene and RiverBasstv guide service. We fished on Sutton Lake and caught plenty of bass! My 15 year old son caught big bass and really had a nice time. This is a very kid/family safe charter. The boat is a state of the art bass crushing machine and Captain Shawn knows where the big bass hide in Sutton lake! Highly Recommended!

FAQs about RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington

RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $400 per group - 4 Hour–Forward Facing Sonar Lessons (4 hours)
  • US $400 per group - 4 Hour–Forward Facing Sonar Lessons - 11:30 AM (4 hours)
  • US $400 per group - 5 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton (5 hours)
  • US $650 per group - 8 Hour Trip – Lake Sutton (8 hours)
When you book a trip with RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Wireless trolling motor
Trips booked with RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Lures
  • Drinks (Water)
RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington offers the following type of fishing:
  • Lake fishing (Sutton Lake)
RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington offers the following fishing technique:
  • Light tackle
Top targeted fish species with RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington include:
  • Bass (Largemouth)

Your captain

Shawn Keene
Shawn Keene
Wilmington, North Carolina, United States
4 Fishing Reports
ID & license verified
33 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since February 2025
Shawn's passion for fishing began at a young age, growing up alongside his father who instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sport. With over 25 years of experience, Shawn has honed his skills and developed a comprehensive understanding of freshwater fishing techniques. Throughout his fishing journey, Shawn has competed at regional and national levels, gaining valuable insights from each tournament experience. This competitive background has equipped him with the knowledge and strategies necessary to excel on the water, allowing him to adapt to various conditions and target a wide range of species. In addition to his love for fishing, Shawn is dedicated to sharing his expertise with others. He enjoys educating fellow anglers on effective techniques, tips, and best practices to enhance their success on the water. Whether through one-on-one mentoring, group workshops, or online content, Shawn is passionate about helping others cultivate their skills and foster a greater appreciation for the sport. His commitment to fishing and community has made him a respected figure among local anglers and enthusiasts alike.
Our Team
Shawn K.
Shawn K.
Captain
Shawn Keene
Shawn Keene
Fully verified
US veteran
4
reports
33
reviews
2025
member since
~1h
response
Shawn's passion for fishing began at a young age, growing up alongside his father who instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sport. With over 25 years of experience, Shawn has honed his skills and developed a comprehensive understanding of freshwater fishing techniques. Throughout his fishing journey, Shawn has competed at regional and national levels, gaining valuable insights from each tournament experience. This competitive background has equipped him with the knowledge and strategies necessary to excel on the water, allowing him to adapt to various conditions and target a wide range of species. In addition to his love for fishing, Shawn is dedicated to sharing his expertise with others. He enjoys educating fellow anglers on effective techniques, tips, and best practices to enhance their success on the water. Whether through one-on-one mentoring, group workshops, or online content, Shawn is passionate about helping others cultivate their skills and foster a greater appreciation for the sport. His commitment to fishing and community has made him a respected figure among local anglers and enthusiasts alike.
The crew
Shawn K.
Shawn K.
Captain

The fish you can target

Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass

Real catches by this captain

  • Two adult anglers proudly display several largemouth bass on the deck of a fishing boat.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Largemouth Bass
    Marlo Y.
    Marlo Y.
    I decided to take my dad out on a bass fishing charter while he was visiting and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience! The boat is extremely well kept and a comfortable ride. Shawn knew all the places to go for catching fish, is extremely knowledgeable, and moved us around the lake to experience different spots. We had beautiful weather, caught lots of fish and just had an amazing overall experience. We definitely would recommend him to anyone who wants a great personal experience!
  • Young angler holds a largemouth bass on the bow of a bass boat during a freshwater fishing trip, with another angler in the background.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Katherine D.
    Katherine D.
    Shawn took my two sons- ages 14 & 16- out for a forward facing sonar instructional trip. My boys compete in bass fishing tournaments and wanted to get some professional tips and education on using their forward facing sonar. They loved the trip with Shawn. He was cool, answered all their questions (and I know they had a lot) and they had a great time! Shawn was vey personable and trustworthy. He communicated with me a lot before the trip- and he was easy to talk with and ask questions. 100% recommend!
  • Adult angler holding a largemouth bass aboard a bass boat on a calm tree-lined lake.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Jason V.
    Jason V.
    Captain Sean was excellent knew the lake like the back of his hand very knowledgeable overall just a great experience within 10 minutes of getting off my first trip already booked the second one 
  • A young angler proudly displaying a large Largemouth Bass while fishing from a boat on a calm lake.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Jeffrey K.
    Jeffrey K.
    5 hour bass fishing trip starting at 7am. The day was beautiful…..forecast called for rain but we didn’t see a drop! The first hour was slow and we thought that might mean a slow day. But Captain Shawn figured out that the bass were holed up in shallow water near the shore. We started casting to the shallows and it was on! We caught at least 30 bass ranging from 1- 5 pounds. The bass were extra fiesty…….when we hooked the one pounders we thought we were hooked into a much bigger fish! My 16 yo son was with us and Captain Shawn takes extra time with him and he learns new techniques every time! If you are looking for a family friendly fishing charter you have to try RiverBass guide service with Captain Shawn Keene!
  • Two anglers proudly displaying a large catfish while fishing on a river, showcasing a successful day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Tyler W.
    Tyler W.
    Great time Fishing ,Caught some Nice bass,Captian was knowledgeable of Lake ,would defintley recomend!
  • A happy angler proudly displaying a large Largemouth Bass while fishing from a boat on a sunny day.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Jeffrey K.
    Jeffrey K.
    6 hour bass fishing trip at Sutton Lake! Bass were biting like crazy! We caught over 20 bass and had a great time…..at one point my son and I were both hooked up with identical 3lb fish! Captain Shawn has a safe and fast bass boat and knows where the fish are hiding. The Captain is very knowledgeable and patient and very family friendly! He teaches my son new techniques on every trip……..Highly recommend Captain Shawn Keene and RiverBass guide service.
  • Angler proudly displaying a large Largemouth Bass while fishing on a calm lake.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Largemouth Bass
    Brandon B.
    Brandon B.
    My 70 year old father and I originally booked a trip with Captain Shawn back in April. Unfortunately due to weather and unforeseen circumstances the trip had to be rescheduled a couple of times. Captain Shawn was extremely communicative, honest and outgoing throughout the entire process. When the stars aligned and we finally made it out on the water we had an awesome day. There must have been 30 fish caught between us in 6 hours of fishing. The Captain’s boat and gear are top notch and he knows the water like the back of his hand. We couldn't be happier and hope to schedule another trip with him out on the Neuse River at some point. Thank you Captain Shawn!
  • A young angler and an adult proudly display a large Largemouth Bass while fishing on a boat, enjoying a sunny day on the water.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Jeffrey K.
    Jeffrey K.
    Half day morning on Lake Sutton with Captain Shawn of RiverBass guide service……What a day! Beautiful weather! We hauled in a beautiful 24 inch 6.7 pound largemouth bass. The biggest I’ve ever seen in person! My son was very exited! We are having a replica mount made. We always have fun with Captain Shawn. We caught plenty of bass in the 1-3 pound range which was a blast! Do yourself a favor and fish Sutton lake with RiverBass Guide service and Captain Shawn!
  • Angler proudly displaying a large Largemouth Bass while fishing on a calm lake.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Lori S.
    Lori S.
    Shawn is extremely knowledgeable and very easy going. He had us on fish from the very beginning until the end of the day. Highly recommend. Thanks again for a great day!
  • A young angler proudly displaying a large Largemouth Bass while fishing with a family member on a serene lake.
    Fish 1
    Largemouth Bass
    Jeffrey K.
    Jeffrey K.
    Morning 6 hour bass fishing trip on Sutton Lake! It was supposed to rain but held off until we got back to the dock! We all caught multiple bass of various sizes! largest was around 2-3 pounds. Captain Shawn always shows my son and I a great time with lots of fun stories. My son got to fish with a baitcaster which he loved! The boat is fast, comfortable and made for catching bass! Highly recommended!

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Skiffs and flats boats
Capacity
2 persons
Boat length
20 ft
Year built
2023
Boat manufacturer
Ranger
Boat type
Bass boat
Engine model
Mercury
Powered by
1 x 250HP
Max cruising speed
60 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Lake Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Wireless trolling motor
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Lures
Drinks
Water

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup agreed upon reservation
Transfer to/from departure site may be available and included in price depending on your location and distance from the dock.
Child friendly
6 and up
Catch and release mandatory
Due to the historical context of the lake and the known elevated levels of heavy metals present in the fish, it is highly recommended that you catch, photograph, and release them.

How you can pay

Pay online in full
Pay online in full through FishingBooker and save on credit card fees at the dock.
No additional fees.
Book with 50% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 50% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash

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RiverBass Guide Service – Wilmington
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