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


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 Mackerel
Peak season: May, June, September. Also good: April, July, August, October. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Mackerel
Hatteras, North Carolina, offers fantastic mackerel fishing, particularly Spanish and king mackerel, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf Stream. This warm current brings nutrient-rich waters and baitfish, attracting large schools of mackerel. The best time to target mackerel here is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, when the water temperatures are ideal. Trolling along the edges of the Gulf Stream with spoons, lures, or live bait is a productive method. For shore anglers, the Hatteras Island Fishing Pier provides access to deeper waters where mackerel often congregate. Be mindful of strong currents and changing weather conditions, which can impact fishing success. A local tip: check with nearby tackle shops for the most recent intel on baitfish patterns and mackerel hotspots – they're usually in the know!
How to Catch Mackerel
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Mackerel in Hatteras.
Mackerel Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
Spanish Mackerel: 15 per person; King Mackerel: 3 per person
Size Limit
Spanish Mackerel: 12-inch fork length minimum; King Mackerel: 24-inch fork length minimum
License Required
Coastal Recreational Fishing License
Possession limits apply to both Spanish and King Mackerel.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the North Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the minimum size for keeping Spanish mackerel in Hatteras, NC?
You can keep Spanish mackerel if they are 12 inches fork length or longer.
What's the best way to catch King mackerel off Hatteras?
Many anglers troll live bait or lures for King mackerel in the waters off Hatteras. Look for areas with structure or baitfish.
How many King mackerel can I keep per day in North Carolina?
The daily bag limit for King mackerel in North Carolina is 3 per person.
Do I need a license to fish for mackerel near Hatteras?
Yes, you'll need a Coastal Recreational Fishing License to legally fish for mackerel in North Carolina waters.
Other Species to Fish in Hatteras
Ready to Catch Mackerel in Hatteras?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.





