When you cast your line, a sense of serenity preludes the thrill of the catch. Book one of our Outer Banks Rentals today and reel in a really big one when you go deep sea fishing on the Outer Banks! Visitors will encounter a host of reliable fishing charters from Corolla all the way down to Nags Head and the Southern Shores. These experienced fishermen and women will gladly show you the ropes and share their favorite secret spots when you opt to ride out into the deep blue with them! Continue reading for some of our favorite deep sea fishing charters and access our Vacation Guide for more outdoor adventures to include in your OBX itinerary!
The Perfect Outer Banks Deep Sea Fishing Guide
What is Deep Sea Fishing in the Outer Banks?
Deep sea fishing in the Outer Banks is an adventure for seasoned anglers, those who are new to the sport, and everyone in between! Unlike inshore or pier fishing, deep sea fishing takes you far offshore into deeper waters where you’ll encounter species that thrive far from land. And since the Outer Banks is situated near the Gulf Stream, its waters attract a variety of big game fish like tuna and marlin!
Many charters offer half-day and full-day trips. These excursions not only let you experience the thrill of fishing but also provide the chance to learn from knowledgeable captains and crews who know the local waters and fish migration patterns like the back of their hands.
The adventure of deep-sea fishing is just as thrilling as the chase! As you head out into the vast, open ocean, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Atlantic, playful dolphins frolicking beside your boat, and an exhilarating rush of being on the water.
Fishing in the Outer Banks isn’t just a pastime, it’s a cultural tradition that has welcomed visitors for decades. This experience merges adrenaline, stunning natural beauty, and North Carolina’s rich maritime heritage. Many adventurers who embark on this journey find themselves returning year after year. So, if you're hoping to reel in a trophy, or just have a sun-soaked day on the water, then gear up for an unforgettable and truly memorable time!
The Best Deep Sea Fishing Charters on the Outer Banks
“Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.” — Henry David Thoreau
Every fishing destination promises its own unique adventure and fishing on the Outer Banks is no exception! We promise you can find the perfect fishing charter for your expedition on the Outer Banks.
Most charters provide everything you need, including saltwater fishing bait and tackle! Check out some of the best local fishing charters in Corolla, Duck, and the Southern Shores:
Corolla Charters
Southern Shores Charters
Pro tip: Head boats are great for children and beginners! They often have restrooms and snacks on board. They also offer more in-depth instruction and all the fishing gear necessary for a successful voyage!
Outer Banks Marinas
If you have your own boat prepped for deep-sea fishing, check out some of the local marinas where you can dock your boat! You might even find fishing charters offered at some of these marinas!
Outer Banks Tackle Shops
The various bait and tackle shops on the Outer Banks carry everything you need for a day out on the water. Whether you consider yourself a novice angler or a seasoned pro, rest assured that these shops offer just the right rods and reels, bait, and advice. Maybe you just want to browse selections of fresh, frozen, or live bait. Perhaps you need to get a North Carolina fishing license if you’re an out-of-towner. You’ll undoubtedly find whatever it is on your fishing trip’s shopping list at one of these shops!
What You’ll Find at a Local Bait & Tackle Shop
The shops listed below carry everything from Yeti coolers and Costa sunglasses to crankbaits and spinning reels. While some shops focus on the fishing factor, others offer a wide range of apparel, gifts, accessories, and more! Pick up an Outer Banks hat as a souvenir or swing by to pick up some of the following must-haves for your tackle box:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hand towels
- Ice chest
- Braided line (spectra)
- Bait hooks
Stock up on all your favorite fishing gear to better your chances of leaving the Outer Banks with a new “fish tale” for the books!
Tackle Shops in Corolla
Corolla Bait & Tackle
In addition to offering charters, Corolla Bait & Tackle also sells bait, tackle, and surf fishing lessons. They also offer rod and reel rentals, crab pot rentals, and various supplies. You might even want to ask one of the staff members for some free fishing advice!
OBX Bait & Tackle
OBX Bait & Tackle is located in Corolla’s Monteray Plaza Shopping Center, which happens to be one of the best spots for shopping on the Outer Banks! Peruse a fully-stocked store for clothing, tackle, sporting goods accessories, and more.
Tackle Shops in Duck
Sharky’s Bait, Tackle, & Charters
Rent your favorite brands of rods and reels at Sharky’s Bait, Tackle, & Charters! You can also find fresh, seasonal bait as well as the best artificial lures from Fishbites, Honeyhole, Got-cha, Slurp, and Sea Striker!
Bob’s Bait & Tackle
Whether you need fishing gear and supplies or lessons and local tips, Bob’s Bait & Tackle, in Duck, is a great shop to visit! You can also check their website for daily fishing reports for pier, beach, sound, and offshore fishing!
Tackle Shops in Nags Head
Whalebone Tackle
If you’re seeking some local pointers, Whalebone Tackle is a great resource! Not only do they stay stocked up on the best fishing gear, but they also offer loads of advice on where to fish, what’s in season, what the regulations are, and more!
T.W.’s Bait & Tackle, Inc.
T.W.’s Bait & Tackle is an excellent resource for finding souvenirs, coolers, Yeti cups, and accessories! They also carry all your favorite brands of rods, reels, artificial bait that you like to have on you for a successful fishing trip!
Fish Species You Can Find While Deep Sea Fishing on the Outer Banks
“If I fished only to capture fish, my fishing trips would have ended long ago.” — Zane Grey
One of the most exciting things about deep sea fishing is the opportunity to reel in a big catch! Set sail for the Gulf Stream and you’ll encounter a variety of Outer Banks fish species. Depending on the season and migrations, schools of popular sport fish make their way through our waters. While you’re out fishing, you might catch tuna, billfish, marlin, mahi, snapper, and more!
Pro tip: Bring Dramamine or anti-nausea medicine! The Gulf Stream waters can be quite rocky.
Spring Deep Sea Fishing on the Outer Banks
As the seasons change, the weather in March, April, and May on the Outer banks begins to warm up! As a result, so do the waters of the Gulf Stream. Some of the most popular fish found this time of year include:
- Black Drum
- Bluefish
- Red Drum
- Yellowfin Tuna
- Big Gaffer Mahi
- Spanish Mackerel
- Whiting (Sea Mullet)
Summer Deep Sea Fishing on the Outer Banks
Fishing on the Outer Banks in the summertime is a blast! Charters head out almost every day this time of year. It’s also a great time to enjoy fresh, local seafood at some of the best OBX restaurants. Some of the most common fish to see in the water and on menus include:
- Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna
- Flounder
- Gaffer and Bailer Mahi
- Sailfish
- White and Blue Marlin
- Wahoo
- Spanish Mackerel
Fall Deep Sea Fishing on the Outer Banks
As crowds begin to thin, the Outer Banks becomes a fisherman’s dream. Temperatures remain pretty warm throughout the fall, even in November. Also, hungry fish begin migrating South and along the Carolina coast. This means that massive schools of Mahi and other fish species abound offshore this time of year!
- Mahi
- Bigeye Tuna
- King Mackerel
- False Albacore
- Striped Bass (Rockfish)
- Speckled Trout
Winter Deep Sea Fishing on the Outer Banks
As long as the weather permits, winter fishing off of North Carolina’s barrier islands can offer fisherman a fruitful catch! Just be sure to track local charters’ weather forecast reports before planning your day. Sometimes choppy waters and strong winds can make it too difficult for the boats to go out.
- Big Chopper Bluefish
- Red Drum
- Yellowfin, Bluefin, and Blackfin Tuna
- King Mackerel
Additional OBX Fishing Ideas
If deep sea fishing and riding out on a charter boat is not really your thing, consider some of the following alternatives!
Pier Fishing
Some of the best fishing piers on the Northern Beaches of the Outer Banks include:
- Kitty Hawk Fishing Pier
- Avalon Fishing Pier
- Nags Head Fishing Pier
- Jennette’s Pier
- Outer Banks Fishing Pier
Surf Fishing
There’s something to be said about simply walking from your vacation rental, pole in hand, to the ocean and casting your line! Any stretch of beach will do. All you really need are pole holders, weights, bait, and the perfect rod and reel combo.
Kayak Fishing
Kayak fishing has grown in popularity over the years. It requires a lot of balance, patience, and stamina but the thrill of the catch is worth it! Getting out a bit further from the shores allows fishermen to catch some of the larger species that are harder to come by while surf fishing.
Stay in a Paramount Destinations Vacation Home
The beautiful beaches of this region draw people from all over, year after year. Embark on exciting excursions such as parasailing, kiteboarding, or deep sea fishing on the Outer Banks! To make the most of your OBX getaway, stay in a Paramount Destinations vacation home. Maybe you’re searching for a beachfront property large enough to fit the whole family. Perhaps you’d rather stay in a quiet, cozy condo close to all the fun shops in town. Whatever your preferences may be, rest assured you’ll be resting your head in your dream vacation home when you stay with us! In addition, check out the advantages of Saturday-to-Saturday rentals on the Outer Banks here!
