North Carolina Fishing: The Complete Guide for 2024

When we say that North Carolina is home to one of the top fisheries on the eastern seaboard, we’re not kidding. You may come here to admire the Blue Ridge or climb the Smoky Mountains, but it’s the fishing in North Carolina that will blow your mind.

Both the diversity and the quantity of fish draw anglers of all levels to the Tar Heel State. With easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, a coastal fishery that keeps on giving, and impressive freshwater action, what’s not to like? On this page, we’ll cover it all.

What are you interested in?

Top Targets in North Carolina

There’s no overstating how remarkable fishing is in North Carolina. There’s something about casting your line here that’s addictive. Maybe it’s the everyday possibilities of record catches, the diversity, or the sheer abundance of fish. Or maybe it’s all three. So let’s dive into some of the species you’ll reel in out here.

Best Freshwater Targets in North Carolina

North Carolina’s freshwater fisheries are almost on par with its saltwater ones, and that speaks volumes. There are over 3,000 miles of freshwater shoreline to explore, which is why people from all over come here to get their fill of fun.

• Striped Bass: Although they’re not strictly a freshwater species, Striped Bass are a favorite target on many North Carolina lakes. They’re stocky fish that are extremely fun to wrestle. Also, they make for excellent eating. In the Tar Heel State, Striper hotspots include lakes such as Hickory, Norman, and Badin, but you’ll also find them in the coastal rivers and sounds. Many lakes also feature Hybrid Striped Bass, which, while smaller, offer terrific battles.
• Black Bass: Besides Stripers, North Carolina’s freshwaters are also abundant with Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted Bass. These three fish are immensely popular among anglers. They’re smart, crafty adversaries that change their patterns with each season. They also fight well, especially Smallies and Spotties. Fontana, Chatuge, and High Rock are just some of North Carolina’s lakes that offer exceptional Bass fishing.
• Catfish: Catfish are almost ubiquitous in North Carolina’s rivers and lakes. There are different types of them swimming about, with Flathead, Blue, and Channel Catfish being the most common catches. You’ll find these fish in the same waters we named in the previous two sections, but rivers such as Neuse, Cape Fear, and Roanoke also feature great catfishing.
• Crappie: Famous for their delicious taste, Crappie are the favored Panfish for many anglers. And like the other fish we’ve named so far, they’re a frequent target in the Tar Heel State. Visit lakes such as Wylie, Jordan, or the aforementioned High Rock, and you’ll get the opportunity to put some Crappie in the cooler.
• Trout: Compared to its marshy coastal region, Western North Carolina is all mountains. And with mountains come cold waters that Trout love to race through. Rainbow, Brook, and Brown Trout can all be caught in the rivers and streams flowing through the “Land of the Sky.” So if you’re a fly angler itching for Trout, start your adventure from places such as Boone, Asheville, or Cherokee.

Best Inshore Targets in North Carolina

Saltwater fishing is nothing short of incredible in NC, and the records prove it. The coastal waters are teeming with all the inshore A-listers on your bucket list. Let’s see what some of these must-catch species are.

• Redfish: Redfish embody everything you’d want in a fish – beauty, power, and divine taste. Their spotted tails and the tenacious way they fight have long charmed anglers all over the East Coast, North Carolina included. In these waters, Redfish are a staple catch, available throughout the year. If you visit during fall, you’ll get a special treat, as that’s when big “Bull” Reds show up.
• Spotted Seatrout: Spotted Seatrout are another common catch in North Carolina’s inshore waters. They’re similar to Redfish in the sense that they’ll both bite on a variety of baits and lures, making it possible to reel in both on the same outing. Trout can be caught from March through November, though the best season in NC takes place in the fall. Anglers also call them Speckled Trout or Specks.
• Black Drum: As members of the drum family, Black Drum bear some resemblance to Redfish as they’re both tasty, inshore species. Adult Black Drum, however, ultimately end up outgrowing most Reds. And once hooked, they’ll use that weight to try and shake off your hook. Another difference is that they’re rarely caught on lures, so make sure to bring menhaden, mullet, or crabs. When’s the best time to catch Black Drum in North Carolina? Winter.
• Bluefish: While these fish are found from Maine to Florida, it’s North Carolina that boasts the record for the largest Bluefish caught. The world-beater fish was caught off Hatteras, weighing just over 31 pounds. While the record is certainly hard to trump, even small Bluefish are extremely fun to fight. They’re renowned for their hard strikes and fighting spirit, making them a beloved target inshore. In NC, it’s possible to catch them year-round, but the best fishing is in late spring and summer.
• Spanish Mackerel: Rather than sticking strictly to inshore waters, Spanish Mackerel follow bait fish. This means you’ll sometimes catch them from land, while other times they’ll be lurking a few miles offshore. Trolling is typically the most effective technique when targeting these fish from a boat. It’s very beginner-friendly, meaning even children can try their hand at catching Spaniards. They’re present across North Carolina’s shores from spring to fall.

Naturally, there are more inshore fish to catch than just the few we named. There are Flounder all along the NC coast, though recreational regulations around them are somewhat stringent at the moment. Some other targets include Sheepshead, Whiting, Weakfish, and more.

Best Offshore Targets in North Carolina

While all types of fishing in North Carolina are impressive, it was offshore and deep sea fishing action that made the state into the angling epicenter it is today. It’s easy to understand why, when all the greats are out there for the taking. Here’s what you can look forward to.

• Amberjack: There are few fish that fight as stubbornly as Amberjack. The way they pull is almost unreal, going full tilt from the moment they realize they’ve been hooked. In North Carolina, you’ll find them hanging out around offshore reefs and vertical structures. Drift fishing, trolling, and chumming are all good ways to entice the AJ bite.
• King Mackerel: Armed with aggression, speed, and a mouthful of sharp teeth, King Mackerel are perfect hunters. Chasing prey, they’re often known to leap out of the water in a stunning show of acrobatics. The strike they deliver when hooked is no less impressive, and it’s followed by a thrilling battle that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping. You can catch King Mackerel almost year-round in North Carolina, but their fall run brings the hottest action.
• Mahi Mahi: With their vivid mix of colors, Mahi Mahi are certainly among the best-looking fish out there. But there’s more to them than their appearance, as they’re also fantastic table fare. To add to that Mahi are great fighters, although they tend to tire quickly. Put these traits together and it’s easy to see why there’s an angling craze when these fish start showing up in spring. The fishing stays strong throughout summer in North Carolina, giving you plenty of chances to feast on some Mahi.
• Blue Marlin: Compared to the fish we named so far, Marlin are a whole different ball game. They’re bigger, faster, and stronger than most of what’s out there, presenting one of the ultimate big game challenges. To find Blue Marlin, you’ll have to venture to the Gulf Stream. Do so during summer, and you might just get the honor of fighting these magnificent fish.
• Bluefin Tuna: If there’s a fish out there on par with Marlin, it’s Bluefin Tuna. With immense power, intelligence, and bewildering stamina, these beasts can battle for hours on end. Bluefin fishing is so wild it even got its own show. And if you’re familiar with Wicked Tuna, you’ll know one of its settings is in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Come wintertime, numerous boats exit through the Oregon Inlet in search of these hulking fish. Hop aboard one, and you’ll be in for an adventure like no other.

In addition to the five fish we named so far, there are probably about a dozen others you’ll encounter offshore fishing in North Carolina. On the reefs, there’ll be Grouper, Triggerfish, Cobia, and Black Seabass to fish for. There are also pelagics such as Wahoo, Blackfin and Yellowfin Tuna, Sailfish, and Little Tunny you’ll get to target. Finally, the depths of the ocean hide prizes such as Swordfish and deep-dwelling Tilefish.

North Carolina Fishing Seasons

North Carolina is a year-round fishery. If you’re not picky about what you want to catch, there’ll always be something biting. Redfish, Bluefish, and Black Drum, for example, are there for the taking whenever you visit. Similarly, the nearshore reefs always hold Black Seabass and Grouper, among others.

In wintertime, most of the recreational fishing is concentrated inshore. However, for anglers willing to brave the seas, the period between December and March is the prime time to reel in Bluefin Tuna. Once spring arrives, more and more game fish join the fold. Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo show up first, followed by Marlin and Sailfish in the summer. The fishery remains solid throughout fall until big Bluefins take center stage once again. Here’s a breakdown of what’s biting and when:

Freshwater fishing follows a different pattern. On the rivers and lakes, wintertime is often considered the low season, even though it’s still possible to catch fish. However, it’s preceded by incredible fall fishing and followed by a prolific spring. The summer is also a great time for freshwater fishing in North Carolina. The only caveat is that some fish retreat into deeper waters, necessitating a boat.

Top North Carolina Fishing Spots

Thanks to the premier fishing that North Carolina has, there are uncountable hotspots for you to target the fish of your dreams. Here are a few destinations you shouldn’t miss. It’s safe to say, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Types of Fishing in North Carolina

The ways of fishing in NC are as numerous as the fish itself. Whatever your ambitions are, there’s a guide somewhere that can turn them into reality. Here are some of the most commonly practiced types of fishing you can try out.

• Inshore Fishing: Marshes, inlets, creeks, and sounds – these are the things inshore fish adore. And it’s this exact scenery you’ll find all along North Carolina’s Atlantic coast. From sight fishing for Redfish to surfcasting for ravenous Bluefish, this inshore fishery is a national treasure. There are fish biting whenever you visit, with enough variety for beginners to learn and pros to beat their personal bests. Wilmington, the OBX, Crystal Coast, and Emerald Coast are all great coastal fisheries, so you can’t go wrong no matter where you visit.
• Deep Sea Fishing: As impressive as inshore fishing is on this part of the East Coast, the deepwaters hold even bigger prizes. North Carolina has excellent access to the Gulf Stream, where giants such as Bluefin Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish, and Wahoo roam. On the way to these prolific fishing grounds, you’ll also have the opportunity to fish various reefs and wrecks for the likes of Amberjack, Black Seabass, Grouper, and more. For the shortest ride to the Gulf Stream, depart from Hatteras.
• Freshwater Fishing: Lastly, North Carolina also boasts incredible freshwater fisheries. In its rivers and lakes, you’ll get to catch everything from Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Striped Bass to different kinds of Catfish and Trout. The waters are also rich with Bluegill and Crappie, which are always welcome additions to the pan. Lakes such as Fontana, Norman, High Rock, and Hickory are just a few choice picks for freshwater fishing in NC.

Fishing Trips in North Carolina

While you can do basic surf or pier fishing on your own, the guidance of a local captain is invaluable to land bragworthy catches. This especially goes for offshore fishers in search of their next trophy.

The good news is that there are hundreds of charters and even more trips to choose from. Whether you’re a novice and want to learn the ropes, going out with your kids, or you’re a seasoned fisherman ready to battle a monster catch, North Carolina fishing charters will make it happen. 

North Carolina Fishing Regulations

One of the first things to think about when planning a fishing adventure in North Carolina is the type of fishing license you’ll need. If you booked a trip with a saltwater charter guide, you’re off the hook – the permit is included in the price. Solo fishermen aged 16 and older need to buy an appropriate license, depending on where they’re casting their line.

There are two types of licenses – Inland for freshwater fishing, and Coastal for saltwater endeavors. For more information on these, check out the video below.

Before you get out there, it’s also worthwhile to get familiar with the fish regulations. This way, you’ll know what you can keep and how many of them, too. The seasons, bag, and size limits can change yearly, so it’s best to pay a quick visit to North Carolina’s DEQ website for the most up-to-date information.

North Carolina Fishing FAQ

Andriana

Andriana has been in love with nature since before she could walk, and she lives to explore the great outdoors whenever she has the chance. Be it traveling to far-off lands, hiking, or mountain climbing, Andriana loves discovering new places and writing about them. The first time she went fishing with her dad she insisted on returning all the catch into the water. Dad was not pleased. Her curiosity about fishing only grew from there, and she’s been writing and learning about it for years. Andriana’s favorite fish to catch is Mahi Mahi.