Topsail Island is a barrier island that's found just south of the famous Bogue Banks. While we don't really know whether it's really the place where the infamous Blackbeard hid his treasure, we can safely say that Topsail Island fishing charters are worth their weight in gold. Separated from the mainland by part of the Intracoastal Waterway, it's surrounded by opportunities for some great fishing.
Topsail Island Fishing Spots
The first thing you should figure out when you're fishing on Topsail Island is where exactly you want to be fishing. The sheer number of possibilities might be overwhelming at first glance. The numerous flats, creeks, and marshland areas make for great fishing inshore, while a number of artificial reefs are great spots for trolling. Lastly, if you're more of a bluewater kind of angler, why not take a day off and spend it on the Gulf Stream going after big game?
South Topsail Beach
The southern part of the island is the one with more flat areas, making it better suitable for anglers who'd like to work on their sight casting. Places like Topsail Sound and Black Mud Channel are popular angling locations for Redfish, Bluefish, and more. The south side of the beach offers more privacy when surf fishing, so have that in mind if you want to stay on land. It's also a great location for family trips, because you're always close to hotels and residential areas.
North Topsail Beach
While both parts of the island offer great fishing, you'll find that the northern part is the more lively of the two. A good place to get starter here is by taking a trip up to Alligator Bay. It's a popular kayak fishing destination where you can land a number of Reds, Flounder, Speckled Trout, and other inshore fish. The winds can be rough here in the afternoon, so it's recommended you make it a morning trip.
That said, if you love Trout fishing, you won't find a better place for it here than over at Stones bay. It's about 4 miles inland from the northern tip of the island, and you just need to follow the New River to reach it. Once there, you can fish until you drop.
Reefs
While the North Carolina seaside in general is a great place for nearshore fishing, the waters near Topsail Beach are the cream of the crop. You have plenty of reefs within 5-6 miles out that host a big number of Spanish Mackerel, Kingfish, Black Seabass, and more during the season. AR 360 is less than 4 miles out if you're setting off from the south side, and it's a fantastic location for Kingfish Trolling.
Gulf Stream
If you've got the time and determination for a 60+ mile run, then you should definitely check out the bluewater charters. While the norm for these is a 10-12 hour trip, you will be rewarded with Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Wahoo, White Marlin, and perhaps Blue Marlin too. Topsail Island deep sea fishing charters have a long tradition of success, and you'll have a variety to choose from.
Fishing Techniques
When fishing inshore, the trick to catching lots of reds is to cruise quietly and be on the lookout for them near oyster beds and points. When Redfish move into the surf, a good idea is to check the sloughs near the northern inlet. If you're also interested in Black Drum, a good idea for both is to hook fresh Shrimp on Carolina rigs with 2/0 circle hooks.
As for offshore, trolling skirted Ballyhoo is the way to go when fishing for Mahi Mahi in the 15-20 mile range. This can also get you some Tuna further out if you're lucky. Bigger Kingfish, on the other hand, are best sought with Cigar Minnows on dead bait rigs.
Need to Know
Going out with a licensed charter captain means you'll be able to focus exclusively on the fishing itself. If you want to maximise your chance of getting the catch of a lifetime, that's one way to do it. Otherwise, make sure to have a valid North Carolina Fishing license with you at all times.
Topsail Island has plenty to offer besides fishing, so do yourself a favor, and make sure to check out the sea turtles, dense forests, and divine beaches too. You might stumble upon a treasure cove yourself, who knows.