Tips on Fishing in Cape Hatteras, NC

Fishing enthusiasts everywhere will probably agree that the fishing on Cape Hatteras is the best fishing on the Outer Banks. It may even be safe to say that Cape Hatteras is the sport fishing capital of North Carolina. What makes the fishing so special on Cape Hatteras anyway?

For anglers, the attraction is the easy access to the Gulf Stream. The Gulf Stream is where the big fish like to hang out. So if you like to fish for big fish, and go off shore fishing, you will love Cape Hatteras. The great thing about Cape Hatteras, you can have access to the Gulf Stream within minutes. There are many charter boats available on Cape Hatteras that will take you offshore and help you land a marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, or sailfish. The exhilarating feeling of that initial bite from one of these huge fish, will never be forgotten. Many anglers make the trip to Hatteras year after year. Also, many of the vacationers come here only to fish.

Charter boats in the area will provide you with all that you need for your fishing excursion. Usually the boats take no more than 6 people and they have a fish mate who will help you along the way. There are many charters to choose from on Hatteras, and many different types. The 6 marinas that line the Hatteras Village should say enough about the fishing.

You don’t need to spend the big bucks to go out on a charter. You can also enjoy the sport of fishing by use of a pier or standing in the surf. During the fall and spring, the surf fishing on Cape Hatteras is unbelievable. Chances are you will reel in some drums, striped bass, flounder, pompano, and blue fish. Any advice or tips that you need, ask the local tackle shops. They are more than willing to help you during your stay. They also have a variety of equipment, so if you forgot something at home, you can find it at the local tackle shop.

The ship wrecks close to shore offer a great home for many fish species. If you like the idea of a boat, but don’t want to go off shore, you can book an inshore fishing trip. These trips are less expensive and offer you a large variety of fish to catch.

Make sure when you are planning a trip to Cape Hatteras or any location on the Outer Banks that you purchase a fishing license. Anglers that are saltwater fishing are required to purchase a license. They are inexpensive and can be purchased for your lifetime, a year, or for 10 days. If you are traveling with children, if they are under 16, they will not need to purchase a license.

No matter what kind of fish or what kind of fishing style you enjoy, you can find a way to catch them on Cape Hatteras. But be careful, the fishing in Cape Hatteras can become addicting and you may need to make the trip year after year.