subject: North Carolina Saltwater Fishing [print this page] Anglers fishing along the coast of North Carolina might choose to fish from the surf, jetties, piers, inlets, bridges, or by boat. The wide variety of saltwater fishing allows anglers of any age, sex or physical condition a chance to enjoy the sport.
Pier Fishing
Pier fishing can vary from the simple tackle to a few very complicated rigs. Beginners will feel very much at ease and many piers have a family atmosphere and lots of people willing to help each other learn. Calling ahead to commercial piers is one way to prepare. Anglers can also check regional websites for pier fishing reports and tips.
Common items to bring might include a cooler, ice, drinks, snacks, sunblock, insect repellent, knife, bait, rags, pliers, rod and reels, tackle, and a camera. It's a good idea to create a list of items needed and pack them beforehand. You will also want to consider how you will transport all this gear onto the pier.
Surf fishing
Surf fishing is popular along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Depending on the season, location and species targeted, anglers may fish with one or several types of cut baits, live baits or with artificial lures. Surf anglers use long rods and spinning or conventional reels and often carry sand spikes to hold the rods and a cooler on wheels called a surf buggy.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing is a good choice for many anglers. Inshore fishing can be done from private boats or by fishing with a guide. Anglers use bait and artificials to catch a variety of North Carolina species.
Deep Sea Fishing
Deep Sea or Offshore fishing is an exciting sport. Anglers fish for tuna, marlin, swordfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, sharks and other pelagic species. Depending on the species and location, anglers may troll, jig, bottom fish, or use other techniques.
North Carolina offshore fishing is sometimes done from small boats, but is dominated by large sportfishing boats, often equipped with twin engines. In either case, the dangerous nature of offshore fishing demands that boats are equipped with an arsenal of safety gear.
Charter Boats
North Carolina Charter boats are popular options in most saltwater fishing areas. A good local charter boat will provide anglers with a safe, enjoyable experience. Charter boats are typically larger than private boats and can usually accommodate 6 or more anglers.
Head Boats
Head boats are another good option for many anglers. Unlike charter boats, head boats carry large groups, sometimes over 50 anglers! Head boats have many advantages, including lower costs, shared resources and an atmosphere that makes it easy to learn new techniques from other anglers. The down side of head boats is that anglers have more competition and are much more likely to get tangled or feel crowded while fishing.
