Fishing Charters in North Carolina
Browse fishing charters in North Carolina that can help you catch king mackerel.
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.
Miss Banx Fishing Charters
Want more time to fish and explore? This trip is for you! We'll troll for Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, Bluefish, and Ribbonfish, and explore wrecks to catch sharks!
Bad Habit Sportfishing
Fishing all of the North Carolina coast for over 30 years. Bad Habit Sportfishing specializes in fishing techniques that PRODUCE great catches. These catches include, Spanish Mackerel, Atlantic Bonito, Trout, Cobia, King Mackerel, Grouper, Snapper, Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish, and Blue Marlin, just to name a few.
Best Time to Catch King Mackerel
King Mackerel can be caught year-round in Hatteras. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
King Mackerel
Chasing King Mackerel off Hatteras, NC, is a thrilling experience, especially during the warmer months when these speedsters migrate into the area. The Gulf Stream's proximity makes Hatteras a prime location for targeting kings. Focus your efforts around offshore structure like wrecks, reefs, and temperature breaks. Live bait, such as bluefish or menhaden, is highly effective, but trolling spoons and diving plugs can also produce strikes. A local tactic is to slow-troll live bait along the edges of these structures. The Hatteras Village Offshore Open is a renowned king mackerel tournament, so pay attention to where the winning boats are fishing. Be prepared for long runs offshore; a seaworthy vessel and reliable electronics are essential. The king mackerel here are known for their aggressive strikes and blistering runs, so hold on tight!
How to Catch King Mackerel
King Mackerel Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per person per day
Size Limit
24-inch fork length minimum
License Required
Coastal Recreational Fishing License
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the North Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the daily bag limit for King Mackerel in North Carolina?
The daily bag limit for King Mackerel in North Carolina is 3 per person.
What size King Mackerel can I keep in Hatteras, NC?
You can keep King Mackerel that are a minimum of 24 inches in fork length in North Carolina.
What's the best way to catch King Mackerel near Hatteras?
Trolling with live bait (like blue runners or menhaden) or artificial lures is a common and effective method for targeting King Mackerel. Look for them near offshore reefs and structure.
Do I need a license to fish for King Mackerel in North Carolina's coastal waters?
Yes, you'll need a Coastal Recreational Fishing License to legally fish for King Mackerel and other saltwater species in North Carolina.
More King Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Hatteras
Ready to Catch King Mackerel in Hatteras?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.