facebook pixel

Damn Good North Carolina Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability on North Carolina fishing trips. Online booking | 5 / 5 stars | Guides from $450

Choose a Date
Choose a Trip Type
5/5 Average Rating

Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

NC Sportfish Adventure

100% (3)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Morehead City

Flats, Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Morehead City

Cape Lookout Custom Charter

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Kids' Fishing Trip

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $300
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Wilmington

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special

100% (4)
21 ft 1 - 3 People From $530
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Fishing Special - 26’ C-Hawk

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Full Day Offshore - 26' Maycraft

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000

Top Cities in North Carolina

Most Popular Types of Trips in North Carolina

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

Red Snapper Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Fishing in Morehead City

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Morehead City

NC Bluewater Special

NEW
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,970
Fishing in Hatteras

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Hatteras

Summer Offshore Run

NEW
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,900
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Bottomfishing Trip

NEW
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Bottomfishing/Trolling Combo

NEW
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $800

Deep Sea Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Fishing in Manteo

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Manteo

Offshore Fishing Trip

NEW
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,800
Fishing in Hatteras

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Hatteras

Summer Offshore Run

NEW
45 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,900
Fishing in Manteo

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Manteo

Full Day Bottomfishing Slam

NEW
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,400
Fishing in Hatteras

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Hatteras

Gulf Stream Deep Run

100% (1)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,120
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Fishing Special - 26’ C-Hawk

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Hatteras

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Hatteras

Yellowfin & Mahi Mahi Combo

100% (1)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200

Inshore Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Harkers Island

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Harkers Island

Nearshore Fishing Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Ogden

Inshore Fishing Charter in Ogden

Speckled Trout Fishing Trip

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Harkers Island

Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Harkers Island

NC Classic Inshore Fishing Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Ogden

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ogden

Shark Fishing Trip

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Oriental

Inshore Fishing Charter in Oriental

Pamlico Sound Bull Reds

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $750
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Inshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Inshore Nearshore Fishing

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $550

Nearshore Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Harkers Island

Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Harkers Island

Nearshore Fly Fishing

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 3 People From $500
Fishing in Ogden

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ogden

Shark Fishing Trip

100% (1)
17 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Harkers Island

Inshore, Jetty, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Harkers Island

NC Classic Inshore Fishing Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Fishing Special - 26’ C-Hawk

100% (2)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Wilmington

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Mixed Bag

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $425
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Harkers Island

Inshore, Nearshore, River Fishing Charter in Harkers Island

Nearshore Fishing Trip

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $500

More Fishing Charters In North Carolina

Fishing in Carolina Beach
Fishing in Carolina Beach
Fishing in Carolina Beach
trip description for Nearshore Half Day in Carolina Beach

Head out for this nearshore fishing expedition on the waters of Carolina Beach, North Carolina, Captain Brandon has a trip for you and your group. This is a family friendly fishing charter company that also takes serious anglers that are looking to fight big fish! With Captain Brandon at the helm, you’re in store for a lot of fun and a catch you’ll be proud of. Everything you need for a successful day of fishing is provided on the day of your Carolina Beach fishing charter. Please book ahead to make sure you get your preferred fishing dates. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Carolina Beach

Nearshore Half Day

NEW
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Bottomfishing Trip in Wrightsville Beach

Get ready to explore the various bottomfishing options on the beautiful waters off of Wrightsville Beach, NC with Captain Jason! This trip is perfect for those looking to tackle a wide variety of species, especially fun and hard-fighting North Carolina deep-water targets such as Black Drum, Black Seabass, Sheepshead, Red Snappers, and Grunt. This trip will focus on jigging and bottomfishing for stubborn, bottom-dwelling fish. Once these lunkers take that bait, get ready for a great fight! Captain Jason knows how to put you where the fish are, but once that rod is in your hands, it's you versus the fish. Bring your strength, skills and stamina, because these fish will be on their A-game. You'll get off the dock aboard your guide's 26' Seahunt center console—a great type of boat for fishing everything around Wrightsville Beach. It's powered by twin Yamaha engines, so you'll be on the fish in no time at all. Captain Jason will come prepared with everything you need for a great day, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. He's an expert in these waters and will do everything he can to get you hooked up on a personal best! Bring along proper clothing, sunscreen, and a pair of polarized sunglasses to maximize your time on the water. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Bottomfishing Trip

NEW
26 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Fishing in Southport
Fishing in Southport
Fishing in Southport
trip description for Inshore backwater trips in Southport

Based out of the Oak Island, this is your ticket to a memorable time on the water. Come on aboard with Capt. Parks, whose main priority is to get you on some fish. He specializes in light tackle, and fly fishing, depending on the species you’re targeting. Speaking of which, you have the option of 4 to 8-hour trips, where you’ll be fishing for the likes of Spanish Mackerel, Redfish, Flounder, Spotted Seatrout, Tarpon, or Bonito, depending on the specific season and the day’s weather. Your adventure begins on board a 22’ Simmons Custom boat that can fit a maximum of 4 anglers. The boat is fitted with a wireless trolling motor and power poles . When it comes to rods, reels, and terminal tackle, everything you need is included in the price. I have a blanket fishing licenses to cover everyone onboard. You will not need a fishing license. You’ll be able to keep any legal species caught during the trip. All Children are welcome aboard and fish for free under the age of 13. I look forward to helping get the young ones started early. Book your trip now and hit the water! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Southport

Inshore Backwater Trips

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $400
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
Fishing in Wrightsville Beach
trip description for Full Day Offshore in Wrightsville Beach

We will usually run about 20 miles offshore to where the higher relief ledges and wrecks can stretch for miles. Big depth changes offshore usually mean more schools of bait and more predator fish chasing them. I like to maximize fishing time so we will usually start on the inshore edge of where the best action has been and work our way further offshore. King Mackerel are the majority of what we will catch, with Amberjack, Barracuda, Mahi and possibly a Sailfish mixing in. This trip is for those who love to be far out to sea for an extended period of time. I will clean your fish and bag the filets when we get back to the dock. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Wrightsville Beach

Full Day Offshore

NEW
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Wilmington
Fishing in Wilmington
Fishing in Wilmington
trip description for Wilmington Mixed Bag in Wilmington

Launch aboard a 23' Regulator with Captain Dave for an epic nearshore adventure out of the Wilmington area. Captain Dave welcomes up to 4 guests aboard his safe, fast, and comfortable boat and is ready to take you and your party to some of North Carolina’s finest game fish. Get ready to chase Kingfish, Cudas, Bluefish, Redfish, or even head a little further offshore for some Mahi and Bonito when the conditions are right. Off the southern coast of North Carolina. there is a lot of nearshore and inshore bottom fishing available as well as trolling the nearshore and further offshore waters. The fish you catch is yours to keep if you wish, Captain Dave will clean them for you at the end of your trip. Captain Dave will provide all the gear and bait you’ll need, along with licenses, ice and water as well, the only things he recommends you bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, your sun protection, and your kids if you'd like as well! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Wilmington

Wilmington Mixed Bag

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $425
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
Fishing in Atlantic Beach
trip description for Going Deep Special in Atlantic Beach

If you're looking for some exciting offshore fishing, complete with screaming reels and giant fish, you've come to the right place. Captain Adam's Gulfstream Special is a must for avid anglers looking to hook up on prizewinning sportfish, including species such as Tuna, Dorado, Marlin, and Sailfish. Let Captain Adam be your guide to the Gulfstream, a major trans-Atlantic current that lures giant fish with the promise of a feeding frenzy. If you've never fished this unique and challenging underwater environment, there's no better opportunity. You'll employ a range of techniques and plenty of gear to catch these fish, and when one takes the bait—get ready for the fight of a lifetime! On the morning of the trip, you'll head out on his 54' Blackwell Custom Carolina, a sportfisher built for speed, performance, and comfort. She's powered by twin 700 HP Caterpillar engines, so wont have to cruise for more than a couple of hours before you reach the prime fishing grounds and start haulin' 'em in. On the way, cross your fingers for a Dorado or Cobia! Captain Adam will be prepared with everything you need for a blue-ribbon day, including rods, reels, bait, tackle, and most importantly, his years of experience hunting champion pelagic predators. To make the most of your experience on the water, make sure to bring Polarized Sunglasses, Weather-Appropriate Clothing, Hat, and Sunscreen. Get ready to have a blast! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Atlantic Beach

Going Deep Special

NEW
54 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,200
See All Trips in North Carolina

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in North Carolina

What are the best fishing charters in North Carolina?

Why should I book a fishing charter in North Carolina with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 99 trips in North Carolina, and the most popular trips in the area are NC Sportfish Adventure guided by Joe, Cape Lookout Custom Charter guided by Mike, and Wilmington Inshore Fishing Special guided by Jamie.

Our guides in North Carolina are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3286 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in North Carolina? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in North Carolina.

What types of fishing charters are common in North Carolina?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in North Carolina as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in North Carolina are: 1. redfish, 2. speckled trout, 3. spanish mackerel, 4. flounder, and 5. cobia.

The most common fishing techniques in North Carolina are light tackle fishing, trolling, and live bait fishing but bottom fishing and artificial lure fishing are popular as well.

How much do North Carolina fishing charters cost?

Prices in North Carolina can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,302, but the average price for a half day trip in North Carolina is $529. The average price for a full day trip in North Carolina is $1,032.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in North Carolina?

The most popular season for fishing in North Carolina is summer, and most anglers book their trips 48 days in advance.

Do I need a North Carolina fishing license and what are the bag limits in North Carolina?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in North Carolina, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in North Carolina. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in North Carolina.

What is fishing in North Carolina about?

Fishing in North Carolina offers anglers a rich tapestry of opportunities spanning from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Coast. In the western part of the state, the Blue Ridge Mountains and their numerous rivers and streams provide excellent trout fishing. The Tuckasegee River, for instance, is renowned for its brown and rainbow trout populations, attracting fly fishermen seeking a serene mountain escape. Further east, the expansive freshwater reservoirs like Lake Norman and Lake Gaston offer prime conditions for bass fishing, with largemouth and striped bass being popular catches year-round.

Along North Carolina's extensive coastline, saltwater fishing enthusiasts can indulge in a diverse range of species. From the Outer Banks to the southern shores, anglers can target prized catches like red drum, speckled trout, and flounder in the surf or from piers. Offshore, charter boats from ports such as Hatteras and Morehead City venture into the Gulf Stream, where anglers can battle with pelagic species like tuna, mahi-mahi, and billfish. The state's rich maritime history and bustling fishing communities add to the allure, making coastal fishing in North Carolina both a recreational pastime and a cultural experience.

North Carolina's inland lakes and rivers also offer unique fishing opportunities. The Roanoke River, for example, is famous for its springtime striped bass run, drawing anglers for miles around to participate in the excitement of the annual migration. In the Piedmont region, lakes such as Jordan and Falls of Neuse are popular destinations for bass anglers, known for their healthy populations of largemouth and spotted bass. Whether casting from a boat on a tranquil lake or battling the ocean currents offshore, fishing in North Carolina provides a diverse and rewarding experience that caters to anglers of all interests and skill levels throughout the year.

What are the most popular months to go fishing in North Carolina?

Fishing seasons in North Carolina offer a dynamic calendar that varies by region and species, providing anglers with year-round opportunities to pursue their favorite catches. Spring marks the beginning of prime fishing season across the state, as temperatures warm and fish become more active. In freshwater rivers and lakes, anglers eagerly await the spawning runs of striped bass on rivers like the Roanoke and Cape Fear, while trout fishing peaks in the mountain streams of the Appalachians. Coastal waters see a surge in activity as well, with flounder, speckled trout, and red drum returning to shallow estuaries and surf zones, making it an ideal time for both inshore and surf fishing enthusiasts.

As summer arrives, fishing in North Carolina shifts to a focus on warm-water species and offshore adventures. Lakes like Jordan and Kerr become popular for bass fishing, where anglers use a variety of techniques from topwater lures to deep-diving crankbaits. Along the coast, anglers target Spanish mackerel and king mackerel from piers and inlets, while offshore charters venture into deeper waters for mahi-mahi, tuna, and billfish. The longer days and mild weather create perfect conditions for extended fishing trips, whether for a day of bass fishing on the Pamlico Sound or a deep-sea excursion off Cape Hatteras.

Fall brings cooler temperatures and some of the best fishing opportunities of the year in North Carolina. In the mountains, trout fishing remains strong as fish feed voraciously in preparation for winter. Rivers like the Nantahala and Davidson become popular destinations for fly fishermen seeking trophy trout. Along the coast, the arrival of cooler waters triggers seasonal migrations of striped bass and speckled trout, offering anglers excellent chances for big catches from both boat and shore. Offshore, the fall marks the peak of the Gulf Stream fishing season, with bluefin tuna, wahoo, and sailfish attracting dedicated anglers to waters off the Outer Banks and Cape Fear. Whether enjoying the vibrant fall foliage in the mountains or soaking up the coastal scenery, fishing in North Carolina during this season promises memorable experiences and ample opportunities to reel in impressive catches.

What types of fishing are popular in North Carolina?

Fishing in North Carolina offers a diverse range of types and techniques suited to its varied landscapes and abundant waterways. In the freshwater realm, anglers can indulge in everything from fly fishing for trout in the cool mountain streams of the Appalachians to targeting largemouth bass in the state's numerous lakes and reservoirs. Techniques such as topwater lures, plastic worms, and crankbaits are popular among bass fishermen on lakes like Jordan and Falls of Neuse, where these predatory fish hide among submerged structures and weed beds. Additionally, the state's rivers like the Roanoke and Yadkin provide excellent opportunities for anglers pursuing striped bass during their annual spawning runs.

Along North Carolina's extensive coastline, saltwater fishing enthusiasts have a wealth of options. Surfcasting from barrier islands like the Outer Banks offers chances to catch species such as red drum, speckled trout, and pompano in the rolling surf. Inshore fishing in estuaries and sounds targets flounder, sheepshead, and spotted sea trout using techniques like live bait rigs, jigging, and casting soft plastics. Offshore, anglers can venture into the Gulf Stream for thrilling encounters with pelagic species like mahi-mahi, tuna, and billfish. Charter boats departing from ports like Hatteras and Morehead City provide access to these deep-sea adventures, utilizing trolling and live baiting techniques to entice big game fish.

For those seeking a unique fishing experience in North Carolina, pier and shore fishing offer accessible and rewarding opportunities. From popular fishing piers like Jennette's Pier in Nags Head to remote beaches along Cape Lookout National Seashore, anglers can cast lines for a variety of species depending on the season. Pier fishing often targets species like Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and flounder, while shore anglers might focus on surf species such as pompano, striped bass, and even shark during certain times of the year. These methods provide a relaxed and scenic way to enjoy North Carolina's coastal beauty while trying your luck at landing a memorable catch.

What species are popular for fishing in North Carolina?

When fishing in North Carolina, anglers have a diverse array of species to target across its varied freshwater and saltwater environments. In freshwater lakes and rivers, one of the most sought-after catches is the largemouth bass, known for its aggressive strikes and impressive size. Lakes like Jordan, Falls of Neuse, and Shearon Harris are popular destinations for bass anglers, offering opportunities year-round to land trophy-sized fish. Additionally, North Carolina's mountain streams and rivers are famous for their trout populations, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout, providing excellent fly fishing opportunities in picturesque settings.

Along the coast, North Carolina offers a bounty of saltwater species that attract anglers from all over. Red drum, also known as channel bass or simply "redfish," are abundant in the state's coastal waters and estuaries, providing thrilling battles for anglers using a variety of techniques from casting lures to live bait fishing. Flounder are another prized catch, found in sandy bottoms and around structures like docks and jetties, making them popular targets for both pier and boat anglers alike. Speckled trout, or spotted sea trout, are highly sought after for their delicious meat and challenging fight, making them a favorite among inshore anglers fishing the sounds and tidal creeks.

Offshore, North Carolina's Gulf Stream waters are teeming with pelagic species such as mahi-mahi (dolphinfish), wahoo, tuna, and billfish. These deep-sea fishing opportunities draw serious anglers looking to hook into some of the ocean's most prized game fish. Whether you prefer the tranquility of mountain streams, the excitement of coastal surf fishing, or the thrill of offshore big game hunting, North Carolina's diverse fishery ensures there's a species and a fishing experience suited to every angler's preferences and skill level throughout the year.

What are the best places to fish in North Carolina?

North Carolina boasts an abundance of prime fishing spots that cater to anglers of all skill levels and preferences. One of the most renowned areas is the Outer Banks, where both surf and offshore fishing opportunities abound. Whether casting a line from the shore or chartering a boat for deep-sea excursions, anglers can target a variety of species including striped bass, bluefish, and even marlin and tuna in deeper waters. The Outer Banks' unique geography where the Gulf Stream meets the coast creates an ideal habitat for diverse marine life, making it a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts year-round.

Inland, the mountain streams of Western North Carolina offer a tranquil and picturesque setting for freshwater fishing. Known for its pristine waters and thriving trout populations, places like the Davidson River in Pisgah National Forest attract fly fishermen seeking trophy-sized catches. The clear, cold streams are stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, providing ample opportunities for both novices and seasoned anglers to enjoy a day on the water surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

For those preferring a more relaxed fishing experience, the numerous lakes and reservoirs scattered throughout the Piedmont region offer fantastic bass and crappie fishing. Jordan Lake and Falls Lake are popular choices, offering accessible shorelines and boat ramps for convenient fishing trips. These lakes are teeming with largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, providing a diverse range of fishing experiences from leisurely bank fishing to adventurous kayak expeditions. With mild weather year-round and an abundance of fishing opportunities across the state, North Carolina truly stands out as a haven for anglers seeking diverse and rewarding fishing adventures.

Does North Carolina have good fishing?

North Carolina is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a wealth of opportunities in both freshwater and saltwater environments. The state's diverse landscape includes lakes, rivers, sounds, and an extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, providing a variety of habitats for numerous fish species. Inland, lakes like Jordan Lake and Lake Norman are popular for Bass fishing, while rivers such as the Roanoke and the Catawba offer excellent opportunities for Trout and Catfish. North Carolina's freshwater fisheries are well-managed and accessible, catering to anglers of all skill levels.

Along its picturesque coast, North Carolina offers exceptional saltwater fishing experiences. The Outer Banks, Cape Hatteras, and the Crystal Coast are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity and abundant fishing opportunities. Inshore fishing provides chances to catch Red Drum, Flounder, Speckled Trout, and Sheepshead, while offshore excursions target larger species like Mahi-Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, and even Blue Marlin. The state's numerous fishing piers, charter services, and boat ramps make it easy for anglers to explore the diverse fishing grounds along the North Carolina coast.

North Carolina's fishing community is vibrant and supported by a range of resources and events. The state hosts various fishing tournaments and festivals throughout the year, including the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament and the Cape Fear Disabled Fishing Tournament, which attract anglers from across the region and beyond. Local bait shops, fishing guides, and online resources provide valuable information and support to help anglers plan successful trips. Additionally, North Carolina prioritizes conservation efforts to maintain healthy fish populations and sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that its fisheries remain productive for future generations. Overall, with its diverse fishing environments, strong community support, and commitment to conservation, North Carolina offers exceptional opportunities for anglers to enjoy memorable fishing adventures.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Joey was great. Had an awesome time.

    Joe R. with Joey V. of Frisco, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great day with Captain Daniel! Great fisherman and host!!

    Trent B. with Daniel G. of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with Captain Joe and Chaz. They were fun and helpful and it was a great day fishing. We look forward to more in the future.

    Robert E. with Joseph D. of Morehead City, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Bradley was a great captain!! We had an amazing time!!!

    Sarah B. with Bradley D. of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Had an absolutely amazing day with Captain Jamie. He's incredibly knowledgable about fishing and the area and super personable. The fish were a little slow to bite at first but Jamie went above and beyond to try different spots he knows and put us on some fish. The mackerel started biting and we ended with the day with a full cooler! All of us were new to fishing and he was very good with beginners and answered all of our questions. Couldn't recommend a day with him strong enough!

    Alexander A. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    My brother and I had a terrific fishing experience with Judd in mid-May. Great equipment, personable and clear communication - plus Judd's experience and judgement made the whole trip a relaxing and fun time all around for our early season exploration of inshore fishing opportunities now that we both live much closer together. We enjoyed a variety of fishing techniques - Judd knows a lot about fish and where to find them as well as when to go looking. Our inexperience showed, but Judd coaches well - patiently - until we got to connecting regularly with especially the many speckled trout opportunities. Sight-fishing for redfish, which Judd expertly located, was also new for us - we had a blast and definitely hope to try again! Kudos and thanks for the quality of this trip, Judd!

    Dwight G. with Judson B. of Ogden, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Good captain, tried his best to get us fish despite windy conditions. Had a good time!

    Tony F. with Joey V. of Frisco, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great half-day trip fishing with Capt Jamie near Wrightsville Beach and Masonboro Island. We caught a few fish and learned a lot about the fishery and habitat. Knowledgeable and patient captain. Saw some dolphins, too.

    Tom D. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience. Caught 30 fish in about 3 hours. Captain Joe was phenomenal.

    Jason M. with Joe C. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Bought this trip for my husband and he cannot stop smiling. Captain Jack was great!!! Will definitely do again!!

    Tommy D. with Jack J. of Beaufort, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great day with Cap. Joe super friendly guy, very knowledgeable and we caught fish left and right. Highly recommend him and we'll definitely book with him again next time.

    Luis G. with Joe C. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great - enjoyed every minute.

    Kevin J. with Justin R. of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    We booked a trip with captain Jaime for two days in the beginning of our trip. My fiancé is an avid fisherman, and was able to pick captain Jamie‘s brain for information on the area, and he gladly shared. Captain brought us to some great spots, and there were some fish caught. We even got to fish one of the shipwrecks from the Civil War, which was amazing. We couldn’t of asked for a more hospitable and kind and knowledgeable guide for this trip.

    Richard G. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    My son and I had such a fun trip with Captain Jamie! He was great with my son, a patient teacher, and he navigated the area with ease. He even tried to hook us a shark! We also saw dolphins and lovely wildlife, and we caught some interesting fish. My son can’t wait to go back and is counting down the days until we see Jamie again!

    Heather B. with Jamie R. of Wilmington, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome time with capt. Joe. He worked extremely hard to put us on the fish. Water conditions weren't to our favor, But we will be back next year. Can't wait to fish with our new found friend again. And have another great day on the water. ☆☆☆☆☆

    Jackie B. with Joe T. of Harkers Island, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Jordan was a great captain! By gosh, by dern, he was going to find some fish for us. Nearly defeated, he found a spot at the end of our trip. He was kind enough to let us fish a bit longer than scheduled so we could pull in a few. Thank you!

    Macy C. with Jordan V. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Coordinating this trip was a nightmare. I got passed around 3x. Lacking clear communication & response time. Would rather have used another service or booked directly with captain

    Connie K. with Craig H. of Beaufort, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    I enjoyed the trip and would like to go back out for grouper and mahi

    Leanna S. with Jordan V. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip! Captain Chuck was terrific and really worked hard to ensure our 10 yo grandson had ax great time and even got him some fish. Highly recommended.

    James D. with Chuck B. of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dave was amazing! We went to a few different spots and caught a good bit of fish. Youre guaranteed to have a great time out there!

    Adri P. with Dave W. of Wilmington, North Carolina

Top Hunting Techniques in North Carolina

Top Types of Fishing in North Carolina

Top Types of Hunting in North Carolina

How are fishing conditions in North Carolina?

View North Carolina Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Trips in North Carolina