Fishing Charters in North Carolina
Browse fishing charters in North Carolina that can help you catch sheepshead.
Best Time to Catch Sheepshead
Sheepshead can be caught year-round in Hatteras. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Sheepshead
Hatteras is a sheepshead angler's paradise, offering diverse habitats from inshore waters to bridge pilings and docks. To maximize your success, focus on seasonal forage and water conditions. Spring and fall are prime times, as sheepshead move inshore to spawn and feed aggressively before and after the colder months. Utilize natural presentations like fiddler crabs, shrimp, or barnacles, and pay close attention to depth as temperature and current fluctuate. Hatteras Inlet is a renowned hotspot, but be mindful of strong currents and boat traffic. Explore the pilings around the Bonner Bridge or the docks in local marinas for consistent action. Remember that sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so use a sensitive rod and a quick hookset. Adjust your presentation and bait selection based on the specific structure you're fishing and the prevailing conditions. Don't be afraid to experiment to find what the sheepshead are keying on that day.
How to Catch Sheepshead
Sheepshead Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
10 per person per day
Size Limit
10-inch minimum total length
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 sheepshead in Hatteras, NC?
You can keep up to 10 sheepshead per person per day in North Carolina.
What size sheepshead can I keep in Hatteras?
The minimum size limit for sheepshead is 10 inches total length in North Carolina.
Do I need a fishing license to catch sheepshead in Hatteras, NC?
Yes, you'll need a Coastal Recreational Fishing License to legally fish for sheepshead and other saltwater species in North Carolina.
Can I fish for sheepshead year-round near Hatteras?
Yes, the season for sheepshead is open year-round in North Carolina.
More Sheepshead Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Hatteras
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