If you’re aiming to catch your next offshore trophy, there’s hardly a better destination than the OBX. Its blue waters are home to some of the fiercest game fish in the world. Just hop on one of the deep sea fishing charters in the Outer Banks and you’ll start what’s likely an adventure of a lifetime.

To reach the Gulf Stream from this part of the East Coast, you’ll have to travel a little over an hour. However, once you’re there, you can expect to reel in all kinds of deep sea species. Most of the season takes place from April through December. However, it’s possible to fish throughout winter if the weather holds up and you find a captain who’s still running trips.

Wintertime is the best period to target big Bluefin. When spring arrives, you’ll get to chase after Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and the incoming Wahoo. As the waters warm up even more, you’ll add Billfish to the list of targets. Over summer, Marlin and Sailfish will be making their run along the Gulf Stream.

During fall, it’s again time to hunt for Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, as well as smaller Bigeye and Blackfin varieties. Towards the end of the year, Bluefins will start showing up again, sometimes as early as November. Of course, bottom fishing is always a good option if the pelagics aren’t biting. There’s plenty of deep dwellers to catch throughout the year, including Tilefish, Black Seabass, Grouper, and more.

You’ll find deep sea fishing charters in Wanchese, Manteo, and near the Oregon Inlet. Alternatively, you can visit Hatteras or Ocracoke and start your trip there. Among these, Hatteras offers the shortest run to the Gulf Stream, thanks to its position. Still, as you’ll be traveling at least 30 miles offshore, full day trips are recommended to ensure a productive outing.