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
(90 reviews)
Wilmington
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $275
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(111 reviews)
Wanchese
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $300
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(33 reviews)
Wanchese
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $350
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(38 reviews)
Morehead City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $425
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(165 reviews)
Carolina Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(69 reviews)
Hampstead
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
Cedar Point
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $400
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(223 reviews)
Wilmington
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(132 reviews)
Wrightsville Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $450
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(23 reviews)
Oak Island
 Instant Confirmation
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 $1,281 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 $456
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $550
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $698
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $920
  • 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 28558 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

Loading Fish Calendar!
Please Wait...

Featured photos from North Carolina

What anglers said about fishing in North Carolina

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
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
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
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
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
"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
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
I can't answer that it was my first time fishing this time of year and in the outer banks
Excellent
5.0 / 5
I can't answer that it was my first time fishing this time of year and in the outer banks
Old School Fishing Charters
Old School Fishing Charters

How did anglers rate fishing charters in North Carolina?

ReelFowl Charters
ReelFowl Charters
Fishing charter in Duck
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
WalkerGriggs was a friendly knowledgable guide who got us on fish! Had a great morning catching speckled trout and one stray blue fish!! He provides reasonably priced tours out of Duck and Corolla.
Mark  H.
Mark H.
Port City Inshore Guide Service
Port City Inshore Guide Service
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(165 reviews)
Once again another grant trip with Captain Bryan! Would highly recommend anyone looking for a fishing guide to book with him. He was very patient helping a novice fisher like myself get the hang of it .
Traci  T.
Traci T.
Yankee Sport Fishing
Yankee Sport Fishing
Fishing charter in Hatteras
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(45 reviews)
Captain Mike was an outstanding guide and provided an awesome fishing day! He put us on fish all day! Great job!
Mike  B.
Mike B.
Fish Witch II Charters
Fish Witch II Charters
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(112 reviews)
The Caption & crew were extremely professional and courteous to us. We all kept busy reeling the fish from start to finish. Would recommend this trip for a family event while visiting the Kure / Carolina Beach area!
Dana  C.
Dana C.
At Ease Charters Inc.
At Ease Charters Inc.
Fishing charter in Emerald Isle
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(68 reviews)
We had a great day out on the water. We caught lots of fish and the Captain was knowledgeable and very friendly. The boat was very comfortable and new.
Robert  M.
Robert M.
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
Fishing charter in Southport
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(3 reviews)
Captain Steele was very attentive and helped us tremendously. He knew it was my kids first time fishing and was great at getting us going and listened to the kids about their comfort level in the boat. We tried inland and the seas were too rough so the kids asked if we could go to calmer water and he found some with great fish select. Captain Steele is super friendly and was a wonderful day one the board catching fish.
Jason  F.
Jason F.
Waymaker Charters - Gratitude (22' Pontoon)
Waymaker Charters - Gratitude (22' Pontoon)
Fishing charter in Wanchese
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(190 reviews)
Had a great day out on the water with Capt. Lewis! He was great getting the kids set up with rods and they had a blast. Weather was terrific too so that made the whole experience enjoyable for everyone.
Brendan  O.
Brendan O.
Quality Time Fishing Charters
Quality Time Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Oak Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(9 reviews)
The morning started slow but once it warmed up we scored. Beautiful day on the sea.
Rocky  M.
Rocky M.
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
Catherine Anne Sportfishing and Excursions
Fishing charter in Southport
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(3 reviews)
Steele, the captain did a great job. He called me the previous day and since it was his only trip for the day, he offered to start the trip earlier or later as I preferred. We got there 15 minutes early and Steele was already there. He took us to different spots where we could chase different species and we did have a lot o fun. I definitely recommend Steele, and Iโ€™m looking forward to come back before the end of fall to see if we can get some mahi.
Gustavo  T.
Gustavo T.
Turtlehead Charters
Turtlehead Charters
Fishing charter in Mooresville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
Itโ€™s such a joy to fish with a guide who truly loves to fish. Captain Frank is a pro and he will go above and beyond to put you on the fish, but heโ€™s also a blast to hang out and fish with. An all around enjoyable day!
Tom  V.
Tom V.
Reef Thief Fishing Charters
Reef Thief Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Oak Island
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
Enjoyed my fishing trip with captain Kelly he was very helpful, knowledgeable all the equipment was great and he was just a awesome overall person I will definitely book again
Brandon  E.
Brandon E.
Tail Chaser Charter Fishing
Tail Chaser Charter Fishing
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(112 reviews)
Captain Brandon, and David were awesome! Every time I messaged Captain Brandon, he responded quickly prior to arrival. The expert guidance, abundance of fish, top-notch equipment, and emphasis on safety lead to the experience of a lifetime. You wonโ€™t be able to find a crew better than Brandon and David. I would highly recommend booking Tail Chasers for your next fishing trip!
Chad  D.
Chad D.
Southern Run Fishing Charters
Southern Run Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Wilmington
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(86 reviews)
Captain Ben was immediately responsive to questions about the booking and was very flexible about everything! We had a great time!
Jeff  S.
Jeff S.
Fish Witch II Charters
Fish Witch II Charters
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(112 reviews)
Shane and Parker were great. It was pretty windy, but these guys did everything they could to make sure we were comfortable and catching fish. Canโ€™t wait until our next trip. This was our first time on the Fish Witch, but not the last.
Thomas  L.
Thomas L.
Rising Sun Fishing- Wrightsville
Rising Sun Fishing- Wrightsville
Fishing charter in Wilmington
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(90 reviews)
Absolutely loved it. Fishing trip was extremely smooth from notifying us before hand and when we got there. Captain was very personable and knowledgeable. We will definitely book another trip with him the next time we come back.
Jessica  W.
Jessica W.
Turtlehead Charters
Turtlehead Charters
Fishing charter in Mooresville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(39 reviews)
Took my grandson whoโ€™s 9, he had a ball. He out fished me. Caught a bunch, which is exactly what I wanted. Captain Frank was just what I wanted. Extremely knowledgeable, thoughtful, and made the trip a lot of fun. We had lots of laughs. Will definitely book him again
Marty  W.
Marty W.
Citation SportFishing
Citation SportFishing
Fishing charter in Wanchese
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(16 reviews)
Captain and crew made sure everyone was aware of what was going on at all times and made sure we had everything we needed. The boat is the nicest charter boat Iโ€™ve been on to date. Planning on going again in August!
Kurt  L.
Kurt L.
Circle Bak Fishing
Circle Bak Fishing
Fishing charter in Wrightsville Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(132 reviews)
Very down to earth crew. Very helpful and knowledgeable. Captain worked with me to reschedule due to terrible weather for the day we originally booked. Great communication.
Dallas  G.
Dallas G.
Fishers Of Men Guide Service
Fishers Of Men Guide Service
Fishing charter in Mooresville
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(184 reviews)
Justin was great! He knows the Lake, where and how to catch many species of fish and is enjoyable fishing company! Definitely will use him again.
David  S.
David S.
Grandslam Inshore Fishing Charters
Grandslam Inshore Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(269 reviews)
Captain Mason knew where to take us to get black drum, we caught a bunch and all were a good size, one 7-8 lbs- what a fight it put up!!! We also caught a few red drum and pin fish. I would definitely recommend that you use him.
Alexander  D.
Alexander D.

Top Types of Fishing in North Carolina

Top Fishing Techniques in North Carolina

Top Targeted Species in North Carolina