North Carolina

432 Fishing Charters

North Carolina Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in North Carolina

Top North Carolina Destinations

North Carolina: 432 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(323 reviews)
Wanchese
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $2,346
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(72 reviews)
Wilmington
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $2,150
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(31 reviews)
Morehead City
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $3,323
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
Wanchese
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $1,955
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(42 reviews)
Nags Head
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $2,150
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(15 reviews)
Wrightsville Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $3,910
Excellent
4.6 / 5
(45 reviews)
Wrightsville Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $3,910
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(23 reviews)
Cedar Point
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $3,128
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Oriental
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $2,932
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(57 reviews)
Carolina Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from HK $1,548

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 $521, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,282 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€“ HK $2,259
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $2,339
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $3,376
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $5,083
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $4,861
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $7,038
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $6,712
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $9,970
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ HK $14,076

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
4.5 / 5
Based on 27689 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

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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This was the first time fishing in the ocean - it was a calm day and we caught enough fish for many meals. Sound fishing in the past was excellent as well - but we were very satisfied being on the ocean side of the OBX.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
This was the first time fishing in the ocean - it was a calm day and we caught enough fish for many meals. Sound fishing in the past was excellent as well - but we were very satisfied being on the ocean side of the OBX.
Christine  F.
Christine F.
Be flexible. We fished for albie but we saw others catching flounders and drum. We did catch a dozen small fish in the surf.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be flexible. We fished for albie but we saw others catching flounders and drum. We did catch a dozen small fish in the surf.
Darrel  J.
Darrel J. Sioux Falls, SD
Go out with Capt. Jesse, Lumina Fishing Charters. Youโ€™ll have a great time and youโ€™ll feel like a pro.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go out with Capt. Jesse, Lumina Fishing Charters. Youโ€™ll have a great time and youโ€™ll feel like a pro.
Diane  K.
Diane K. Wilmington, NC
Book an all day trip if you can because you wonโ€™t want to get off the water! Hydrate hydrate hydrate
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book an all day trip if you can because you wonโ€™t want to get off the water! Hydrate hydrate hydrate
Karen  B.
Karen B. Madison, WI
Find an experienced guide and let them show you the local rigs, tactics and bait. Split the cost with several friends or family and a fishing trip can be relatively inexpensive.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Find an experienced guide and let them show you the local rigs, tactics and bait. Split the cost with several friends or family and a fishing trip can be relatively inexpensive.
Jim  D.
Jim D. Mohnton, PA
Be ready for some fun. If your new to this take motion sickness medication before you leave.
Excellent
4.7 / 5
Be ready for some fun. If your new to this take motion sickness medication before you leave.
Brian  K.
Brian K. Kernersville, NC
The best time to fish Manteo is April May and June. You might need to dodge high winds and hurricanes after July through November. Good news though, Manteo has inshore opportunities in the sound for anglers who love to bring home tasty catches. Speckled Trout and Red Drum are GREAT eating fish. So are sheepshead and Striped Bass.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The best time to fish Manteo is April May and June. You might need to dodge high winds and hurricanes after July through November. Good news though, Manteo has inshore opportunities in the sound for anglers who love to bring home tasty catches. Speckled Trout and Red Drum are GREAT eating fish. So are sheepshead and Striped Bass.
Robert  M.
Robert M. Crossville, TN
Be prepared to get wet and wear swimwear and bring a camera to capture the experience
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be prepared to get wet and wear swimwear and bring a camera to capture the experience
Justin  S.
Justin S.
As always talk with your Captain and keep an eye on the weather so you can pick the best day and trip for success. I enjoyed the small town and easy going marina. It all made for a stress free trip.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
As always talk with your Captain and keep an eye on the weather so you can pick the best day and trip for success. I enjoyed the small town and easy going marina. It all made for a stress free trip.
Jonathan  C.
Jonathan C. Mount Washington, KY
Stay in the Hatteras Island inn. Itโ€™s real close to most of the marinas and is a quality hotel that was all enjoyed.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Stay in the Hatteras Island inn. Itโ€™s real close to most of the marinas and is a quality hotel that was all enjoyed.
Jacob  H.
Jacob H. Hayes, Virginia
All types of fishing possible, river, inlet coastal waterway, inshore, offshore. Decide which you prefer, then research Captains/options.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
All types of fishing possible, river, inlet coastal waterway, inshore, offshore. Decide which you prefer, then research Captains/options.
Wiley  C.
Wiley C. Rocky Mount, NC
Be on time and ready to go. These guys have schedules and clients waiting. Be courteous and be on time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be on time and ready to go. These guys have schedules and clients waiting. Be courteous and be on time.
Kimothy  M.
Kimothy M. Raeford, NC
Fish on! The fish like every where tend to move but the locals communicate to let everyone know where the fish are at.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fish on! The fish like every where tend to move but the locals communicate to let everyone know where the fish are at.
Amy  M.
Amy M. Strasburg, VA
Always choose a well equipped and comfortable boat for your outing, and Captain with long time experience in the area.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Always choose a well equipped and comfortable boat for your outing, and Captain with long time experience in the area.
Prince  R.
Prince R. Quinton, VA
To go thru buck nasty charters. Will teach u and tell u everything u need to know
Excellent
5.0 / 5
To go thru buck nasty charters. Will teach u and tell u everything u need to know
Nick  S.
Nick S. Bruceton Mills, WV
This time of year we understand is not the best for fishing but the Calabash marina was nice!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
This time of year we understand is not the best for fishing but the Calabash marina was nice!
Steve  W.
Steve W. Gibsonia, PA
Absolutely. All sorts of species. Surf, pier, sound, several offshore/inshore options.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Absolutely. All sorts of species. Surf, pier, sound, several offshore/inshore options.
Joe  F.
Joe F.
Be ready for a busy day of fishing. I landed around 30 fish of varying species on my 4 hour trip. The fish are definitely out there and a quality guide is key to getting you on them.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be ready for a busy day of fishing. I landed around 30 fish of varying species on my 4 hour trip. The fish are definitely out there and a quality guide is key to getting you on them.
Wayne  S.
Wayne S. Maiden, NC
Unfortunately we were here a week after the hurricane which had the fish out of sorts but based on what we have been told by others, the fishing is normally quite good
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Unfortunately we were here a week after the hurricane which had the fish out of sorts but based on what we have been told by others, the fishing is normally quite good
Joann  A.
Joann A. Harwood, MD
Be open to the Captains suggestions as to what would make your trip most productive.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be open to the Captains suggestions as to what would make your trip most productive.
Raymond  L.
Raymond L. Greensboro, NC

Artemis Sportfishing
Artemis Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Manteo
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(72 reviews)
Great boat and equipment The Captain and Mate were awesome I wish we had a few more fish but we werenโ€™t skunked. Good trip will do again.
James  C.
James C. Rhoadesville, VA
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters
Pamlico Pirate Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Oriental
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(8 reviews)
Captain Dave is awesome! He explains a lot about the sound in the Neuse river. Explained everything he was doing in terms of fishing and setting things up for us. We had a great day and we will definitely do it again
Michael  P.
Michael P. Hanover, MD
JW Charters
JW Charters
Fishing charter in Nags Head
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(82 reviews)
Captain John is very knowledgeable and took time to answer our questions and gave great tips for future fishing too. We saw other boats not catching and sitting. Captain John worked until he got us on fish. Caught a ton! Will definitely book again. Highly recommend!
Michael  T.
Michael T. Frame, WV
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charter
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charter
Fishing charter in Holden Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(59 reviews)
My husband and his brother brought their two sons (ages 4 and 6) and had an absolutely fantastic time! Captain Tyler was kind and helped them have such a memorable day! Highly recommend!
Adrienne  K.
Adrienne K. Leland, North Carolina
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charter
Carolina Traditions Fishing Charter
Fishing charter in Holden Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(59 reviews)
We experienced early morning on the inter-coastal, the technique for flounder fishing and calm ocean fishing for mackerel. Our Captain was very knowledgeable and very efficient.
Ken  S.
Ken S. Hillsborough, NC
Bonehead Charters
Bonehead Charters
Fishing charter in Hatteras
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(158 reviews)
Captain Jimmy and First Mate Mitch were excellent and my whole party had a very good time.
Richard  C.
Richard C.
Carolina Flats Fishing
Carolina Flats Fishing
Fishing charter in Surf City
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(33 reviews)
My son and I had a good time . We both are green city folk at fishing . Capt. Adam gave us a good education on the area and fishing tips . We caught and released little sharks , black bass , flounder . We went home with a spotted trout not enough to feed the family , but it was a very worthwhile and when we are back in this area we will sign up with capt. Adam . May even try the eco tours he does as well thanks
Joel  N.
Joel N. Oak Park, IL
Drifter Sportfishing And Charters
Drifter Sportfishing And Charters
Fishing charter in Sneads Ferry
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(35 reviews)
Phenomenal experience and great time with Captain KK and Jeremiah, it was a slow start but Capt. KK ensured us a good trip and put us on some amazing grouper and amberjack, already looking into the calendar to see when I can book with these guys again. If youโ€™re thinking about booking with these guys I highly recommend.
Ashton  W.
Ashton W. Hubert, North Carolina
Hayden Express Charters
Hayden Express Charters
Fishing charter in Wanchese
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(85 reviews)
Captain Ralph and Mason delivered an experience that far exceeded our expectations! He was able to get us on the fish very quickly. Albacore, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder and Blues found the ice! I would highly recommend, The Hayden Express if you're looking to book a charter while in OBX.
Chris  L.
Chris L. Butler, PA
Blue Heron Guide Service
Blue Heron Guide Service
Fishing charter in Hampstead
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(57 reviews)
Fishing was a little slow today, and the drum werenโ€™t hungry. We still caught several species of fish, using different tactics. The Captain did an amazing job! We had a group of 4 and we all had a blast. Great conversation with the Captain, we learned a lot, and we all would highly recommend.
David  J.
David J. Pfafftown, NC
Old North State Fishing
Old North State Fishing
Fishing charter in Wanchese
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(20 reviews)
Had an amazing day on the water for my friends 21st birthday and we managed to have an amazing day filling the box with lots of fish and even hooked into a massive redfish on light tackle. Captain Andy is a super fun guy to be around and his knowledge of the waters around OBX are Apperent. Over all amazing and will come back again for sure.
Andrea  S.
Andrea S. Ivyland, PA
Southern Sportfishing
Southern Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(43 reviews)
Everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable. Everything was done to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. They made sure I came back with some fish! Iโ€™m very grateful for their experience and professionalism! I would recommend these wonderful people to anyone!! Thank you!
Carl  R.
Carl R. Atlanta, Georgia
X-Spearmint Sportfishing
X-Spearmint Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Manteo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(310 reviews)
Great morning fishing with Captain Ryan. Great guy, and knowledgeable fisherman. Great trip.๐Ÿ˜Ž
Phillip  D.
Phillip D. Mount Sidney, VA
Port City Inshore Guide Service
Port City Inshore Guide Service
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(149 reviews)
Captain Bryan is very professional and accommodating. My son and I went with him on a full day inshore trip. First stop in the morning we caught our limit of flounder plus several that we released(or self released). For the remainder of the day he continued to put us on the fish catching and releasing more flounder and a few undersized red fish. Next time we are in Carolina Beach we will definitely be giving him a call.
Joshua  W.
Joshua W. United States
OBX Inshore Fishing โ€“ Stumpy Point
OBX Inshore Fishing โ€“ Stumpy Point
Fishing charter in Manteo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(296 reviews)
Wow! Amazing day! Caught all kinds of fish and had a blast with Captain Terry. He knew right where to go, how to catch them, and was just a blast to hang out with. Great with kids too. The experience was beyond all expectations. We will be back.
Daniel  F.
Daniel F. Readfield, ME
Poacher  Sportfishing Charters
Poacher Sportfishing Charters
Fishing charter in Nags Head
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(337 reviews)
We had 6 adults in our party. We caught fish as soon as the lines were in and kept catching. The first mate was busy! We would highly recommend this boat and crew. Hope to come back someday!
Christine  F.
Christine F.
Calabash Fishing Fleet โ€“ Navigator
Calabash Fishing Fleet โ€“ Navigator
Fishing charter in Calabash
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(272 reviews)
Great crew! Fish were small but plentiful which made it FUN! Hope to be back next year!!!
Donna  L.
Donna L. United States
Stick Em Fishing Adventures
Stick Em Fishing Adventures
Fishing charter in Wanchese
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Capt. Vinnie was delightful to have as our guide! Always positive, even when the bite was slow. He communicated openly and honestly as to what was, or was not, happening at any given moment. Very good at instructing the different methods of fishing. We boated nearly 20 fish during our trip and just missed a Citation for a sea trout by 1โ€!! We will be getting back with Captain Vinny on our next trip to the OBX!!
Jeff  S.
Jeff S. Chaska, MN
Southern Sportfishing
Southern Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Carolina Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(43 reviews)
We had a great time flounder fishing with Bennett and Dylan. They were incredibly helpful and fun to have with us on our trip!
Bryan  R.
Bryan R. Bucyrus, OH
OBX Inshore Fishing โ€“ Stumpy Point
OBX Inshore Fishing โ€“ Stumpy Point
Fishing charter in Manteo
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(296 reviews)
Captain Terry ordered up the perfect day. Blue skies calm waters, all kinds of fish and lots of laughs. Best charter trip weโ€™ve ever been on. See you next year. Thanks Captain, Mike and Donna
Michael  S.
Michael S. Union Hall, VA