North Carolina: Ultimate Fishing in Tar Heel State

Published: Monday, June 13th, 2022| Updated on: Tuesday, March 14th, 2023

Overview

North Carolina, often affectionately called the Tar Heel State, is one of America's most incredible fishing destinations. With myriad geography and abundant wildlife, the state offers anglers many options when selecting a spot to drop a line. From world-renowned trout streams in the Smoky Mountains to Pamlico Sound's endless miles of saltwater flats, North Carolina has something for everyone when it comes to fishing. Add in a temperate climate and a diverse array of fish species, and it's easy to see why North Carolina is so popular with anglers from all over the country.

The state has various ranges of fish species and has some of the best fishing infrastructures in the country. You'll find countless marinas, charter boats, and bait-and-tackle shops along its many coastlines. Inland, there are dozens of lakes and rivers well stocked with fish. And if you're looking for a truly unique fishing experience, you can even do fly fishing in one of the many mountain streams.

North Carolina has something for everyone when it comes to fishing. So grab your rod and reel and head to the Tar Heel State for an unforgettable fishing adventure.

North Carolina Map of Places to Fish

About Fishing in North Carolina

North Carolina is also a premier destination known for its beautiful beaches, abundant sunshine, and rich history. But if you are looking to catch trophy-size fish in the Atlantic Ocean or cast your line into the calm waters of one of the state's many lakes, rivers, or mountain streams, you will find plenty of fishing opportunities to reel them in.

If you're looking for a great fishing spot that offers something new every season, North Carolina is a great place to check out. Thanks to its wide variety of freshwater and saltwater habitats, this state provides a range of exceptional fishing opportunities throughout the seasons. In spring and early summer, anglers can cast their lines along the shores of lakes and rivers, hoping to hook bass and bluegill. In summer and fall, head to coastal towns like Wilmington or Morehead City to take advantage of excellent surf fishing conditions on the beaches. And during the winter months, don't miss out on opportunities to fish near harbors or piers in places like New Bern or Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

North Carolina will never run out of great fishing opportunities to offer to anglers, from small ponds to large lakes and from the coast to the mountains. In the north-central part of the state, Shearon Harris Reservoir and Falls Lake are both popular spots for bass fishing, while further south, Jordan Lake is known for its abundant crappie populations. The rivers of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for trout fishing, and fly fishers, in particular, will find plenty of challenging spots at places like Linville River, Wilson Creek, and the Watauga River. And if you are looking for more challenging fishing conditions, check out the Outer Banks to catch bluefin tuna or head down to Southport for some excellent shark fishing.

On the other hand, Davidson River, in Pisgah National Forest, is considered by many to be one of the nicest trout streams in the southeastern United States. For saltwater fishing, head to the Gulf Stream, off the coast of North Carolina, where you can find a wide variety of pelagic fish, such as mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sailfish. And if you are interested in fishing offshore, check out the ports of Morehead City and Beaufort, where you can charter a boat to go tuna fishing or get onboard a head boat for some bottom fishing.

Many popular fishing tournaments are held in North Carolina each year, attracting anglers from across the state and beyond. Among the most popular fishing tournaments in North Carolina include the annual Hell's Bay Turtle Tournament held every spring in Emerald Isle and the Cherokee Angler Club Smallmouth Bass Championship held on Fontana Lake each September.

Everything Else About North Carolina Fishing

North Carolina fishing is a pastime that locals and visitors have enjoyed for generations. For anglers looking for a new fishing adventure, there's no place quite like North Carolina. Whether you prefer the slow-moving waters of a river or the crashing surf of the Atlantic coast, North Carolina has plenty of fish hotspots for any fishing enthusiast. And anyone who loves to fish knows the experience can be even more enjoyable when you have a great fishing guide to show you the best spots and help you land the big catch. A skilled guide can make the difference in ensuring that your trip is memorable and fun rather than a frustrating series of missed opportunities.

Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent fishing guides in North Carolina who can help make your fishing trip a success, and Guidesly is here to help you find the perfect one for you or your group. With all of our guide's knowledge of the area and the best spots to fish, they'll ensure that your trip is one for the books! And with our over 50 charter guides located throughout the state, you're sure to find the perfect guide for your next fishing adventure. If you're looking for a guide whose passion for water is matched only by an unparalleled fishing knowledge, look no further than Captain Jack Collins of Captain Jack With Fishin Jack Charters. He will make sure that you have the fishing adventure of a lifetime. If you're bringing your family and looking for the best kid-friendly fishing experience, look no further than Adrian Johnson of Eye Deal Fishing Charters. He makes sure that everyone on the trip, young and old, has a great time reeling in some fish.