Coastal North Carolina Fishing
Explore the pristine waters and abundant marine life of Coastal North Carolina, where every cast is an adventure.
Discover Saltwater Fishing in Coastal North Carolina
Coastal North Carolina offers a diverse array of saltwater fishing opportunities that cater to both novice and seasoned anglers. From the serene beaches of the Outer Banks to the bustling piers of Wrightsville Beach, the region is a haven for those seeking the thrill of the catch. The area’s unique geography, with its mix of estuaries, inlets, and open ocean, provides a rich habitat for a variety of species, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Whether you’re targeting the elusive redfish in the marshes or casting for flounder along the sandy shores, Coastal North Carolina promises an unforgettable fishing experience. With its mild climate and scenic landscapes, this region not only offers excellent fishing but also breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Join us as we explore the best spots and techniques to make the most of your coastal fishing adventure.
Top Fishing Locations
Outer Banks
A Fisherman's Paradise
Wrightsville Beach
Coastal Charm and Rich Waters
Oak Island
Tranquil Shores, Bountiful Catches
Wilmington Area
Tranquil Shores, Bountiful Catches
Morehead City & Beaufort
Tranquil Shores, Bountiful Catches
Topsail Island
Tranquil Shores, Bountiful Catches
Emerald Isle
Tranquil Shores, Bountiful Catches
Popular Coastal Species
Redfish - Red Drum
One of NC’s signature coastal species, redfish are abundant in marshes, surf zones, and inlets. Best caught with cut bait or soft plastics in shallow water, especially spring through fall.
Flounder
Flat, tasty, and sneaky—flounder lie near pilings, jetties, and sandy drop-offs. Fish jigs or live bait near the bottom. Regulations vary, so check local rules before targeting.
Speckled Trout
Specks love cooler water and moving tides. Target them near grass lines, bridges, and drop-offs using soft plastics or topwater plugs, especially during early mornings in spring and fall.
Black Drum
Black drum are bottom feeders often found near piers, bridges, and oyster beds. Known for their strength and size, these fish bite best on fresh shrimp or crab fished on the bottom. Spring and fall are peak seasons, especially in inlets and deeper marsh channels. Smaller “puppy drum” are common, while larger adults can top 30 pounds.
Spanish Mackerel
Fast and flashy, these summer and early fall favorites hit spoons and jigs retrieved quickly. Great from piers or boats just beyond the breakers during clear, calm conditions.
Sheepshead
Sheepshead are structure-loving, bait-stealing specialists found around bridges, docks, oyster beds, and rock jetties along the North Carolina coast. Known for their strong jaws and human-like teeth, they feed on barnacles, crabs, and shrimp. Target them using small hooks, light leaders, and fiddler crabs or sand fleas as bait. Spring and early fall are peak seasons, especially in areas with clean water and heavy structure.
Bluefish
Aggressive and fast, bluefish are a favorite among surfcasters and pier anglers in NC. Look for schools chasing baitfish in the surf or off the ends of piers. Use flashy lures or cut bait. They’re most active in spring and fall during the bait runs.
King Mackerel
Popular with offshore and pier anglers alike, king mackerel (or “kings”) are fast, powerful predators. Troll spoons or slow-drift live bait around nearshore wrecks or end-of-pier rigs. Peak season is late summer to fall, especially when water temps hit the mid-70s.
Croaker
A classic beginner-friendly species, croaker bite readily from piers, beaches, and bridges using shrimp, squid, or Fishbites. They’re most common in summer and early fall, often traveling in schools. Use light tackle and bottom rigs for best results.
Spot
Often confused with croaker, spot are a fall favorite for NC anglers—especially kids and families. Use small pieces of shrimp or bloodworms on two-hook bottom rigs. Look for them around piers, estuaries, and calm sound waters from late summer through October.
Tarpon
Rare but thrilling, tarpon visit North Carolina’s southern coastal waters during peak summer months. These silver giants cruise coastal creeks, inlets, and sounds—especially near the Cape Fear region. Use live bait near structure. Hookups are rare, but unforgettable.
Pompano
A prized catch for surf anglers, pompano are fast, hard-fighting fish often found cruising the breakers of North Carolina’s beaches. These silver-sided fish feed on sand fleas, clams, and shrimp along sandy bottoms during warmer months. The best time to target pompano is late spring through early fall, especially around tidal changes. Use small pompano rigs with pieces of shrimp or Fishbites for consistent action near the shoreline.
False Albacore (Little Tunny)
False albacore are lightning-fast pelagic fish that offer some of the most exciting light-tackle action on the North Carolina coast. Common from late summer through fall, they’re often found busting baitfish near inlets, beaches, and just offshore. Though not typically kept for eating, they’re highly sought after by sport anglers for their speed and fight. Use small metal jigs, epoxy lures, or flies — and be ready for a screaming drag when they hit.
Cobia
Cobia are powerful, elusive game fish found along North Carolina’s nearshore and offshore waters during the warmer months. Known for their size and stamina, cobia are often spotted cruising near buoys, bait pods, or following rays along the surface. Anglers target them with live eels, bucktail jigs, or sight-casting lures. Spring through early summer is prime time, especially along the southern coast near Cape Lookout and Cape Fear. A true bucket-list catch for NC saltwater anglers.
Seasonal Fishing Tips
Plan your fishing trips with these seasonal tips to maximize your catch throughout the year.
1
Spring Fishing
Spring brings warmer waters and active fish. Target redfish and flounder as they move into shallower areas.
2
Summer Fishing
In summer, fish early or late in the day to avoid the heat. Focus on speckled trout in cooler waters.
3
Fall Fishing
Fall is prime time for redfish and flounder. Cooler temperatures make for excellent fishing conditions.
4
Winter Fishing
Winter fishing can be rewarding with the right gear. Target black drum in deeper waters where they gather.