Fishing Charters in North Carolina
Browse fishing charters in North Carolina that can help you catch bowfin.


Salty Dawg Fishing Charters
Salty Dawg Fishing Charters specializes in Inshore, Nearshore, Shark Fishing, and Kids Fishing Charters. Based in Ocean Isle Beach NC, but also serving Sunset Beach NC and Holden Beach NC. Veteran-Owned.


Wheels On Deck
Wanchese, North Carolina


Biopsea
Nags Head, North Carolina
Whether you are a beginner or seasoned pro, we strive to provide an enjoyable Outer Banks charter fishing trip for all aboard!


Captain Charles Cp Perry
Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina


X Spearmint Sport Fishing Charters
Manteo, North Carolina
Past Trips, Photos, Fun, Outer Banks, Charter, Boat, Sport, fishing, x-spearmint, Pirates Cove, Captain Ryan Spear, Fishing Trip, Cobia, Mahi, Wahoo, Drum, Manteo, Nags Head, Carolina Custom, Inshore, Nearshore, Bait, Fish, North Carolina, NC


Cape Fear Guide
Southport, North Carolina
Selami permainan berisiko tinggi di TAKERU365! Nikmati imbalan besar dan akses cepat dan aman dengan tautan login tepercaya.


Fletch Sports Fishing Charters
Carolina Beach, North Carolina


Off We Go
Wilmington, North Carolina
Private fishing, island hops, and sunset cruises. USCG-licensed captain.


Mad Kingz Fishing Charters
Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
Ocean Isle Beach Location 6855 Beach Drive SW Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469 910-579-2424


Carolina Fly Guy
Leland, North Carolina
Oak Island fishing charters await with Carolina Fly Guy and Captain Ashley Hux! Experience unforgettable adventures on the water. Book your trip today!


Upper Creek Angler
Morganton, North Carolina
“We had a blast and I am so happy that Nick not only caught a trout on his fly rod but that he caught the biggest trout. He said he learned so much from you yesterday as I also did. A great experience. Thanks again and we will be repeat customers, maybe even a float…


South End Anglers
Holly Ridge, North Carolina
Best Time to Catch Bowfin
Peak season: May, June. Also good: April, July, August. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Bowfin
The bowfin fishing around Charlotte, North Carolina, offers a unique experience in the Catawba River system. Lakes Norman and Wylie, both impoundments on the Catawba, hold populations of bowfin that thrive in the weedy shallows and backwater creeks. Spring is the prime time, as spawning activity concentrates the fish in these areas. Look for them around lily pads, cattails, and submerged vegetation. A productive local tactic involves using topwater frogs or buzzbaits early and late in the day when the bowfin are most active near the surface. The bowfin here are known for their aggressive strikes and bulldog-like fighting style. Be prepared for a battle! Access is relatively easy with multiple public boat ramps around both lakes. Check lake levels before you go, as water levels can fluctuate and affect access to certain areas.
How to Catch Bowfin
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Bowfin in Charlotte.
Bowfin Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Unified Fishing License
Bowfin are considered nongame fish in North Carolina.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the North Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for bowfin in Charlotte?
Bowfin in the Charlotte area are opportunistic feeders. Try using live bait like large shiners or cut bait. Artificial lures such as spinnerbaits, swimbaits, and weedless frogs can also be effective, especially in weedy areas.
Where are some good places to fish for bowfin near Charlotte?
Look for bowfin in slower-moving waters with plenty of vegetation. The Catawba River and its backwaters, along with smaller creeks and ponds around Charlotte, can hold bowfin populations. Focus on areas with submerged structure.
Is there a size limit for bowfin in North Carolina?
There is no size limit for bowfin in North Carolina. You can keep bowfin of any size.
Do I need a fishing license to target bowfin in North Carolina?
Yes, you need a valid Unified Fishing License from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to legally fish for bowfin and other species in public waters.
Can I fish for bowfin all year in North Carolina?
Yes, the season for bowfin is open year-round in North Carolina. There are no seasonal closures for this species.
Other Species to Fish in Charlotte
Ready to Catch Bowfin in Charlotte?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





