North Carolina Fishing Charters

The best out of 443 charter fishing deals in North Carolina - enter dates to check availability

Top North Carolina Destinations

North Carolina: 443 fishing charters available
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(91 reviews)
Wilmington
trips from US $275
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(38 reviews)
Morehead City
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(111 reviews)
Wanchese
trips from US $300
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(167 reviews)
Carolina Beach
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(69 reviews)
Hampstead
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(225 reviews)
Wilmington
trips from US $450
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(40 reviews)
Cedar Point
trips from US $400
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(132 reviews)
Wrightsville Beach
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(23 reviews)
Oak Island
trips from US $275

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in North Carolina

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in North Carolina are: Full list of top fishing charters in North Carolina

The average price for a private 4 hour North Carolina fishing trip is US $524, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,276 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in North Carolina that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in North Carolina are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in North Carolina are:

The top 3 types of fishing in North Carolina are:

Many fishing charters in North Carolina provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in North Carolina are:

Who are the top awarded captains in North Carolina?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in North Carolina are:
  • 2-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $279
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $413
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $461
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $550
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $706
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $925
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,550
  • 14-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $2,100

Fishing in North Carolina

The outstanding fishing that the Tar Heel State has to offer needs no introduction. Nor do the North Carolina fishing charters that take you to the action! Whether you’re in the mood for deep sea fishing, inshore excursions, or freshwater escapades, you’ll find everything you need in these prolific waters.

The inshore bite is fantastic year-round. Anglers regularly test their skills and luck against Bull Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, Flounder, and Bluefish. Exciting fishing battles and trophy catches are always a possibility. The same goes for superb offshore fishing, where anything from Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and Amberjack to Sailfish, Marlin, and Tuna are but one cast away.

Freshwater anglers are in love with fishing in North Carolina, and how could they not be? The abundance of lakes and rivers is a dream come true for just about every fisherman. Bass in all shapes and sizes are the main catch, be it Smallmouth, Largemouth, Spotted, or Striped. White Perch, Crappie, Catfish, and Sunfish are all on the menu.

So which fishing trip should you choose? Short half day options are perfect for enjoying the inshore bite, and the same goes for freshwater trips. If you’ve got deep sea fishing on your mind, you’ll need more time to get to the fishing grounds (20–60 miles offshore). Because of this, 10- or 12-hour trips are the best solution.

Competitive fishermen have a lot to do in NC, with the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament in summer and dozens of fishing derbies all over the state. In short, there’s a bit of something for everyone!

Rules & Regulations

If you’re going out fishing with a charter guide, you’re covered when it comes to fishing licenses. Solo anglers aged 16 and older need to have a valid North Carolina fishing license, whether they’re fishing from boats, piers, or shore.

North Carolina
Excellent
4.8 / 5
Based on 28585 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

North Carolina Fishing Seasons

January

The beaches might be empty, but the waters are definitely not! You’ll find plenty of Bluefin Tuna swimming around offshore, while Redfish, Black Seabass, and Flounder rule the waters inshore. You can also go clamming if you’d like.

February

Bluefin Tuna are still going strong, but you’ll need to wait if you want to get your hands on some Yellowfins. Inshore, the bite is exploding, with plenty of Spotted Seatrout, Bluefish, Stripers, and Flounder there for the taking. Scalloping and clamming are very productive.

March

While not as delicious as their Bluefin cousins, Yellowfin Tuna will give you a fight to remember. You can also hook into some Wahoo these days. Inshore, Cape Lookout is the home of big Redfish, with Spotted Seatrout and Stripers following close behind.

April

Mahi Mahi is making an entrance over at Hatteras, closely followed by more Wahoo and bigger Yellowfin Tuna. The Redfish and Trout bite remains steady, and you also might stumble upon some Weakfish (Gray Trout).

May

May is known as the best Cobia time in all of North Carolina. Depending on your fishing style, jigs or live eels should yield the best results. You are also likely to see Tarpon make an appearance. Offshore, King Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, and Yellowfins are biting.

June

Hatteras is known as the Blue Marlin Capital of the World. If you’re a skeptic, come on down in June and see for yourself. Also, expect White Marlin and Sailfish this time of year. Grouper are active in June, as are Tuna, Mackerel, and Wahoo.

July

July marks the peak of the tournament season! You’ll find Billfish tournaments in every town and village with access to the ocean, from Nags Head to Hatteras and beyond. Even crabs and clams are abundant these days – the guarantee of a delicious seafood feast.

August

The tournaments might be over, but the fish are still there. There’s good action everywhere, whether you want Billfish or Tarpon, Grouper or King Mackerel, Redfish and Black Drum. All yours for the taking. Even Sharks come out to play.

September

The weather might be cooler, but that doesn’t mean that fishing is slowing down. White Marlin are still present offshore, while Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, Bluefish, and Black Drum are solid choices inshore.

October

Great “Smoker Kings” hog the spotlight in October. This is the time to be on the water if you want to fight hordes of King Mackerel, both in the Outer Banks and along the Crystal Coast. Looking for variety? Add Little Tunny, Grouper, Snapper, and Tuna to your to-catch list.

November

If you’ve longed for Bluefin Tuna, this is your time! Bluefins are back, and they’re spoiling for a fight. Artificial reefs are your go-to for filling the cooler with bottom feeders. Inshore, Redfish, Trout, Flounder, and Striped Bass are ready for the taking.

December

As is customary for wintertime, Redfish are holed up in the backcountry, making for some awesome sight casting trips. The Gulf Stream is the “ Bluefin Tuna Central,” with trophy catches in the cards. There’s no rest for passionate fishermen in North Carolina!

North Carolina Fishing Calendar

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Featured photos from North Carolina

What anglers said about fishing in North Carolina

We are a family of fishing novices. We have young children 11,11,& 12 and we caught a bunch of fish. My kids had a blast. I highly recommend Cait. Johnny!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We are a family of fishing novices. We have young children 11,11,& 12 and we caught a bunch of fish. My kids had a blast. I highly recommend Cait. Johnny!
Island Time Charters
Island Time Charters
Do your homework. Know how to get a licence before you go NC FISH and wildlife website is not user friendly
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Do your homework. Know how to get a licence before you go NC FISH and wildlife website is not user friendly
ReelFowl Charters
ReelFowl Charters
Communicate with the Captain and they will respond quickly to your questions and request.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Communicate with the Captain and they will respond quickly to your questions and request.
Fish Witch II Charters
Fish Witch II Charters
just sit back and watch and listen to deiter very good at what he does, you can learn alot by by paying attention to the captain he will answer any question you have great guy
Excellent
5.0 / 5
just sit back and watch and listen to deiter very good at what he does, you can learn alot by by paying attention to the captain he will answer any question you have great guy
Dieter Melhorn Fishing โ€“ Belmont
Dieter Melhorn Fishing โ€“ Belmont
Water seems to be so colgado this days and many species are not on yet. It seems after May there is mor variety.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Water seems to be so colgado this days and many species are not on yet. It seems after May there is mor variety.
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
We canโ€™t say enough good things about our time fishing in Wrightsville Beach! We had a blast spending the afternoon on the water catching Spanish Mackerel and several other fish! Captain โ€œBig Fishโ€ Monty and 1st Mate Kyle Fox were absolutely awesome and we canโ€™t wait to come back and do it again!!!! Highly Recommended!!!! Neil and Lana Thrasher Nashville TN
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We canโ€™t say enough good things about our time fishing in Wrightsville Beach! We had a blast spending the afternoon on the water catching Spanish Mackerel and several other fish! Captain โ€œBig Fishโ€ Monty and 1st Mate Kyle Fox were absolutely awesome and we canโ€™t wait to come back and do it again!!!! Highly Recommended!!!! Neil and Lana Thrasher Nashville TN
Captain Big Fish
Captain Big Fish
Check ahead with what's biting in the area if you have some flexibility in your travels to the area. Depending on the warmth of the water, you may have different experiences. We just missed spanish mackerel season by a week!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Check ahead with what's biting in the area if you have some flexibility in your travels to the area. Depending on the warmth of the water, you may have different experiences. We just missed spanish mackerel season by a week!
Ava Lynn Fishing Charters
Ava Lynn Fishing Charters
Itโ€™s a little early but we still caught our limit on the fish , that where bitting ..
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Itโ€™s a little early but we still caught our limit on the fish , that where bitting ..
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
This time of year is tricky due to the weather. Bring a positive attitude. I would recommend rain gear. You may get wet on the way out depending on the ocean. Gloves , hat, jacket will be needed in the cold months.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
This time of year is tricky due to the weather. Bring a positive attitude. I would recommend rain gear. You may get wet on the way out depending on the ocean. Gloves , hat, jacket will be needed in the cold months.
Family Time Fishing Charters
Family Time Fishing Charters
The sea sting is the top right boat 42 ft cubby cabin nice toilet area spacious comfortable seating and to get up and move Captain Jess's knowledgeable of the reefs and we had a great time. And as a former first mate my first job was on a diet boot fishing boat I wish we had a boat nice as his can't wait to go back
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The sea sting is the top right boat 42 ft cubby cabin nice toilet area spacious comfortable seating and to get up and move Captain Jess's knowledgeable of the reefs and we had a great time. And as a former first mate my first job was on a diet boot fishing boat I wish we had a boat nice as his can't wait to go back
Seas The Sting
Seas The Sting
We had a cold morning that wasnโ€™t optimal for fishing but it could just as easily have been warmer.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We had a cold morning that wasnโ€™t optimal for fishing but it could just as easily have been warmer.
Falling Tide Fishing Adventures
Falling Tide Fishing Adventures
Wear added layers of clothing this time of year! The weather swings 30-40 degrees each day and on the water with wind can catch you by surprise!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Wear added layers of clothing this time of year! The weather swings 30-40 degrees each day and on the water with wind can catch you by surprise!
Grandslam Inshore Fishing Charters
Grandslam Inshore Fishing Charters
Don't forget a jacket. It was warm the morning of, but got colder during the day.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Don't forget a jacket. It was warm the morning of, but got colder during the day.
FinchasersUSA Charters
FinchasersUSA Charters
The trip was on calm water, because the Captain communicated prior to the trip and adjusted the trio time. We caught many fish throughout the day, most were undersized but it was a great day and we were always catching fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The trip was on calm water, because the Captain communicated prior to the trip and adjusted the trio time. We caught many fish throughout the day, most were undersized but it was a great day and we were always catching fish.
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charters
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charters
Check out Southern Tides canโ€™t wait for summer, we have big plans with Captain Jacob and the Southern Tides crew.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Check out Southern Tides canโ€™t wait for summer, we have big plans with Captain Jacob and the Southern Tides crew.
Southern Tides Fishing Charters
Southern Tides Fishing Charters
For this time of year wear layers and a sock hat, and gloves, bring some hand warmers for your pockets,
Excellent
5.0 / 5
For this time of year wear layers and a sock hat, and gloves, bring some hand warmers for your pockets,
Sound-N-Sea Charters
Sound-N-Sea Charters
Good because we caught fish, would have liked to catch more, but we had fun
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Good because we caught fish, would have liked to catch more, but we had fun
Old School Fishing Charters
Old School Fishing Charters
"What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Hatteras for the first time?" - The weather isn't always going to cooperate and give you a nice day. Talk to your captain ahead of time and they will tell you how to prepare yourself for when you are on the boat. They want you to be comfortable and have a great time, so listen to what they say.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
"What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Hatteras for the first time?" - The weather isn't always going to cooperate and give you a nice day. Talk to your captain ahead of time and they will tell you how to prepare yourself for when you are on the boat. They want you to be comfortable and have a great time, so listen to what they say.
Dunn Deal Sportfishing
Dunn Deal Sportfishing
Bring warm clothing and rain gear during the winter months...even when it is supposed to be in the 60s.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Bring warm clothing and rain gear during the winter months...even when it is supposed to be in the 60s.
Reel Teal Charters โ€“ 22' Bull's Bay
Reel Teal Charters โ€“ 22' Bull's Bay
I really wasnโ€™t sure what to expect for it being early November but the weather was perfect and mid 70s.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I really wasnโ€™t sure what to expect for it being early November but the weather was perfect and mid 70s.
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charters
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charters

How did anglers rate fishing charters in North Carolina?

Port City Inshore Guide Service
Port City Inshore Guide Service
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(167 reviews)
Bryan communicates well in preparation for the trip. He was right on time welcoming me to his boat. We fished several coves and shores with artificials and then changed to live bait. Heโ€™s knowledgeable on red drum, blue fish. Gar, speckled trout and several other species. While I barely out fished him, he kept a positive attitude throughout the trip. The one complaint I have is that Bryan did not teach me his LONG cast. Next time.
Doug  P.
Doug P.
Reel Teal Charters โ€“ 22' Bull's Bay
Reel Teal Charters โ€“ 22' Bull's Bay
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(72 reviews)
Capt.Tony is knows where the fish are!! had a great time!! and will do this again with Capt.Tony!!
Tim  L.
Tim L.
ILM Fishing โ€“ Bald Head Island
ILM Fishing โ€“ Bald Head Island
Fishing charter in Southport
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Jeff is an awesome captain and guide. We he some nasty weather and he made sure we were safe and extended our fishing time to make up for lost time. We would book with him again, highly recommend booking a fishing trip with Jeff
Kevin  J.
Kevin J.
Capt BC Sportfishing
Capt BC Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Nags Head
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(24 reviews)
10/10 trip. The boat itself was amazing and Buddy and Watson were great. Did everything they could to get us on some fish and when we were on them they did everything they could to stay on top of them. Highly recommend anyone booking a trip with these guys. Won't be disappointed.
Michael  M.
Michael M. Burke, Virginia
Capt BC Sportfishing
Capt BC Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Nags Head
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(24 reviews)
If you want to kill fish. This is the boat for you. Buddy kept us on em and Watson busted butt the whole day. Donโ€™t look any further these are your guys.
Trey  S.
Trey S. Salem, Virginia
Southern Tides Fishing Charters
Southern Tides Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Cedar Point
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(40 reviews)
This was a really nice fishing trip. Our guide knew where the fish were and did his best to make sure everyone caught something. It was a great afternoon on the water. Thanks!
Jadon  S.
Jadon S.
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Trent Woods
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
We had a great trip. The captain worked hard all day making sure we had the best experience possible. We plan to book another trip soon.
Jon  M.
Jon M.
Set'n Hooks Guide Service
Set'n Hooks Guide Service
Fishing charter in Mooresville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(84 reviews)
Capt Will was a great fishing guide and put us lots of fish. My kids had a wonderful day of fishing and we will definitely be back to fish with Capt. Will again. Highly recommended!
David  M.
David M.
Classic Guide Service Llc
Classic Guide Service Llc
Fishing charter in Randleman
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(18 reviews)
Wow words are not enough to express the fun me and hubby had. He was super attentive and knew where to take us to catch fish. Beautiful morning perfect was perfect. This was the best trip ever. Boat and captain amazing. We will definitely do this again soon. Thanks Vinny we had so much fun. My hubby caught an amazing huge catfish I didnโ€™t do too bad caught about 20-25 mix fish. Love, love, loved it!
Luther  W.
Luther W.
Hieronymus Fishing Charters
Hieronymus Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Wilmington
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(81 reviews)
Captain Cord was both entertaining and accommodating and made the trip fun and productive for both new and veteran anglers.
Connor  S.
Connor S.
Reel E Bugging
Reel E Bugging
Fishing charter in Morehead City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(33 reviews)
Bobby and Amy are awesome they work very well together and do there best to put you on the fish.
Scott  T.
Scott T.
Tried And True Charters
Tried And True Charters
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(61 reviews)
Donnie the Captain and his Mate Owen were top notch! These guys worked hard getting us on fish: I would definitely charter with them again.
Dennis  M.
Dennis M.
Reel Time Charters
Reel Time Charters
Fishing charter in Atlantic Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(123 reviews)
Hanging out with captain Cody and Harrison was a blast today. We caught 30 blues and a Spanish mackerel. Itโ€™s was a slow start but when he found them it was game on all four poles was getting bitten. All around good guy and great crew!!!!!!
Andrew  T.
Andrew T.
Leverdrag Charters
Leverdrag Charters
Fishing charter in Wilmington
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(225 reviews)
We had a great time fishing with Capt. Joe . We caught plenty of fish and learned a lot. We will book with you again
Todd  G.
Todd G.
Family Time Fishing Charters
Family Time Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Atlantic Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
We had a great time with Capt. Justin We would book a trip again with him experienced capt in the area!
DIANE  H.
DIANE H.
Tombstone Charters
Tombstone Charters
Fishing charter in Atlantic Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(163 reviews)
Jared and Travis were very professional ,knowledgeable , and a perfect team for a perfect day.
Eric  E.
Eric E.
Captain Big Fish
Captain Big Fish
Fishing charter in Wrightsville Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(282 reviews)
Me and my family had a wonderful time and caught a lot of fish! I would highly recommend Captain Monty! Best Experience Ever!!!
Patricia  R.
Patricia R.
Shallotte Outdoors Fishing Charters
Shallotte Outdoors Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Holden Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(210 reviews)
My cousin and I wanted to get on some Spanish. Cap. Brad put us right on them, and we couldnโ€™t keep the lines in the water. Even after the morning slowed down, we kept having fun. We moved around and followed the fish. Once we had our limit, we moved inshore for the rest of the charter. Still on fish, and still Brad was teaching my cousin who had never done that type of fishing. Highly recommend Brad and his charters. Great day!
Jared  G.
Jared G.
Set'n Hooks Guide Service
Set'n Hooks Guide Service
Fishing charter in Mooresville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(84 reviews)
Captain Will put us on several spots where we caught a 21lb, 17lb, and 12lb catfish as well as numerous bass and other fish ranging from 3-10 lbs. it was a great day on the water. The last hook of the day, we didnโ€™t land, but it may have been catfish hunter. I have never seen line pulled out like that! Iโ€™d recommend Capt Will to anyone.
Charles  W.
Charles W.
Patriot Sportfishing
Patriot Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Nags Head
Very good
4.0 / 5
(6 reviews)
The captain will do everything he can to make sure you have a great day. He had some electrical issues with some upgrades he made to the boat and did not feel safe taking us on an offshore trip. He was very apologetic about the situation and he lined us up to go out on another boat that was not booked for that day, he even came back to the dock and greeted us after the trip to see how our trip went.
Chris  W.
Chris W.

Top Types of Fishing in North Carolina

Top Fishing Techniques in North Carolina

Top Targeted Species in North Carolina