It comes as no surprise that Outer Banks fishing opportunities draw fisherman and outdoor recreation enthusiasts year after year. Bring your own rod and reel or rent one from one of the many tackle shops in the area. You can even purchase a fishing license at one of the shops. Spend the day under the sun’s rays soaking in the salty air while attempting to catch the biggest fish in the sea. You can embark on a fishing charter adventure out into the deep blue, sink your toes in the sand and fish from the beach, or find an ideal perch on the pier. Regardless of whichever fishing method floats your boat, you’re bound to have the time of your life! Discover more water activities to indulge in on your next OBX vacation in our handy vacation guide!
The Best Outer Banks Fishing
Pier Fishing
For those who enjoy casting their line from a carefully selected perch on the pier, consider fishing from one of the many piers scattered across the Outer Banks. From Kitty Hawk and Nags Head all the way down to Hatteras Island, visitors can find the perfect spot to spend their day attempting to reel in the ultimate catch.
- Kitty Hawk Fishing Pier
- Avalon Fishing Pier
- Nags Head Fishing Pier
- Jennette’s Fishing Pier
- Outer Banks Fishing Pier
- Rodanthe Pier
- Avon Fishing Pier
- Bonner Bridge Pier – opened in 2021, this unique spot offers visitors a great spot for sightseeing, spotting marine wildlife, and casting a line. Head out on the 1,046-foot-long remnant section of the Bonner Bridge any day of the week and see if you can hook the big one!
Charter Fishing
Whether fishing is a career, a hobby, a passion, or some combination of the three, charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the best things to do in the area. Local experts steer their guests in the right direction towards prime fishing holes and secret spots. Reel in giant tuna, wahoo, flounder, or mahi. Embark from any of the bigger towns on the Outer Banks and set out for full day of adventure. Some of the local charters include:
- The Tuna Duck – Hatteras Island | Offshore sport fishing for large prize fish like blue marlin, tuna, and wahoo
- Bite Me Sportfishing Charters – Hatteras, NC | Year Round charters aboard a 51 foot Carolina Sportfisherman
- Carolina Girl Sportfishing Charters – Hatteras, NC | As seen on National Geographic’s Wicked Tuna Outer Banks, Captain Jessie Anderson can make your fishing dreams come true!
- Corolla Bait and Tackle – Corolla, NC | Full service shop offering hte largest selection of tackle. Book fishing excursions to anywhere in the OBX on any kind of boat – they have you covered.
- Country Girl Charters – Manteo, NC | For large groups who want to go out into the Gulf Stream, this is the charter for you.
- Oregon Inlet Fishing Center – Nags Head, NC | Choose from half-day charters or full-day charters and tailor your experience to the exact trip you want
- Pirate’s Cove Yacht Club & Marina – Manteo, NC | Choose from a huge fleet and go on a nearshore trip, head to the inlet, or hit the deeper Gulf Stream waters
Surf Fishing
While there are many great locations for surf fishing on the Outer Banks, locals have a few favorites for reeling in the best catches and avoiding hordes of people. Check out these three excellent surf fishing spots deemed as some of the best:
- Cape Point
- Oregon Inlet
- Hatteras Inlet
Kayak Fishing
Anglers looking to try a more adventurous fishing method might enjoy the thrill of kayak fishing. Treat yourself to an excursion on the sound, the ocean, or even at night. Fishing enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy this unique opportunity that is unlike any other fishing venture!
Fish Species in the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks, known by some as the, “Fishing Capital of the World,” boasts a diverse array of fish species. Inshore waters are teeming with Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and speckled trout, particularly during the warmer months. Offshore, you can target yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and the prized blue marlin, especially when venturing into deeper waters.
Fishing seasons vary, with Spanish mackerel being most abundant from May to September, while yellowfin tuna peaks in May and October. It’s essential to check with the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries for the latest regulations and to ensure you have the appropriate fishing license, as a license is required to fish in these waters.
Stay with Paramount Destinations
After spending a day on the Outer Banks fishing, head back to your beautiful Paramount Destinations vacation home. Our Waterlily rental in Corolla is located in the premier community of Pine Island. With convenient beach access and sweeping views of the ocean, sound and open dunes of the Audubon Sanctuary, this property is a guest favorite. You and your family will love staying near attractions such as some of the best restaurants in Corolla and the Corolla Adventure Park. You can even book a wild horse tour and spot the Outer Banks’ majestic inhabitants in their natural habitat. What are you waiting for?
